Blue Mountain DEIS Statement

Recently, I sat down with USFS Supervisor Shaun McKinney to discuss the Blue

Mountain DEIS Plan and the impact it will have on Baker County. As the September public-comment deadline approaches, the meeting was timely and informative. I appreciate his time and our conversation.

The DEIS document is extensive. I have read all three proposed alternatives. The final plan is intended to be a more collaborative approach and a living document, rather than the 1990 plan.

I believe Alternative 2 offers the best opportunities for fuel management, economic growth, and scenic improvements for Baker County on the quickest timeline.

Importantly, this option brings the greatest employment opportunities to Baker County. We must be prepared to advocate for that investment. It could mean jobs for our area, with advocacy for funding and collaboration from public and private sectors.

There are no guarantees because of the USFS downsizing and hiring freezes. However, they may be able to open more positions in the near future. That will affect how quickly improvements can be made, even though the plan outlines them.

There are no travel management plans in the DEIS. The USFS was directed not to

include it in this plan. My understanding is that it will be a separate plan (this directive came from heads in Washington, DC).

As our skies are filled with smoke, as valuable timber and habitat are being destroyed, we are reminded that forest management, revenue enhancement and job growth cannot be just a concept. Alternative 2 will open the door for Baker County on all three fronts sooner, not later.

As your Baker County Chair, I will use my experience in the legislative, legal, and

community process to advocate for healthier and more productive forests.