DENVER — The comment period for a proposal protecting 9.2 million acres in Tongass National Forest ended Monday. Environment America submitted 15,941 comments (part of a nationwide effort that generated more than 100,000 comments in support of protection). If the proposal is approved by the Tongass National Forest Board, logging will be prohibited and road-building will not be allowed on the 9.2 Million acres of Tongass Roadless Area. This is in direct opposition to a Trump-era decision that rescinded roadless rule protections for undeveloped areas of the forest.
According to Environment America Public Lands Director, the Tongass National Forest is a natural wonder that the American public knows about.Ellen Montgomery. The restoration of the roadless rule will ensure the longevity of the sitka spruces for many centuries to come. We hope this is the beginning for a new trend in the Forest Service, and that they continue to protect more mature and old growth forests.
The Tongass National Forest is the largest in the United States and provides habitats for many species, including brown bears, bald-eagles, and all five species pacific salmon. The forest is also one ourThe best natural solutions for global warming, absorbing44% of total carbon already storedAll forests in the national forest network.
This is a win, said Alaska Environment Director.Dyani Chapman. Tongass residents number in the thousands. They depend on the Tongass to provide them with safe, undeveloped areas where they can fish, hunt, kayak, and hike. We must preserve the most important places that we have left, such as the Tongass, in a world that is losing so much of nature every day.
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Environment America is a national network that includes 30 state environmental groups. Our staff works together to ensure clean air, clean water and open spaces and a livable environment. Our research and advocacy are supported by our members all across the United States.
