Our forests are more valuable to us when they still exist. They act as our planet’s lungs, house activities, provide jobs and help to beautify our landscapes.
I’m talking about the Roadless Area Conservation Rule, more commonly known as the “Roadless Rule,” which has been under attack from the current administration. This rule prohibits companies from logging, mining, fracking, building or developing on government lands without access points.
There are about 45 million acres of land in the U.S. protected by this law, with 25,000 of that being in Pennsylvania. All of that is in the Allegheny National Forest. This is a favorite hunting and hiking spot for many people in the area. It’s where we go to reconnect with nature and would be sorely missed. Already 95% of the forest is open to logging, mining and commercial roadbuilding.
The recent comment period on the rollback of the Roadless Rule has ended, but that does not mean we should stop pushing back or stop talking to our elected officials about it. I know that I’m not quite ready to give up my favorite outdoor spots. What about you?
Julia Garfinkel
Shadyside