The BLM and the Forest Service are writing new forest plans for federal forests in Benton County. Under the Trump Administration, a huge increase in timber cutting is anticipated. The BLM has said it wants to increase timber cutting five-fold. The BLM owns thousands of acres of land south of Marys Peak – much of it mature and old growth forest.

Between the BLM and the Forest Service planning efforts, Benton County’s remaining mature and old growth forests are at risk. Into this clear and present danger, a call was made to unite forest and conservation advocates across the county. On March 9th an initial meeting of over fifty people came together. From the meeting, the Benton Forest Alliance emerged. The Alliance unites people from conservation, wildlife, watershed/water quality and climate organizations. In this special moment of concern, we must all unite and work to oppose bad proposals in the new forest plans.

Aloha_ScopingMap_Final

The link above is to a BLM timber sale near Alsea. The timber project was opposed by many residents in the Alsea area. 

EarthJustice Scoping Comments to the BLM for proposed changes to the Forest Plan.