Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

LOGGING CONTRACTORS, CATALDO, IDAHO Mr. Hoiland. Senator McClure, my name is Lawrence Hoiland. I am the president of the Associated Logging Contractors of Idaho. I own and operate a contract logging business and have worked as a logger in Idaho since 1955. I am indeed proud to represent the majority of loggers in the State of Idaho. This group of people is more directly affected by this issue than any other group in Idaho. We are pleased that you have given us this opportunity to state our views here today. I feel the majority of the now roadless areas in Idaho should be released into the multiple use category. I also realize that this des ignation does not necessarily mean these areas will be immediately logged. On the contrary, there may be many acres that may never be logged due to wildlife impact, water quality, recreational effects, and many other priorities that responsible management designates. Contrary to some beliefs, the Idaho logger does not have a goal of cutting down every tree in the State of Idaho. On the other hand, it is difficult to see the value of letting mature and valuable timber go by the way of fire, blowdown, and disease to or obvious benefit to anyone. It is clearly evident that properly managed forests enhance the recreational value rather than diminish it. On the wilderness side, I believe the rest of the Nation should be very proud of Idaho for its enormous contribution to the wilderness system. Is there no limit to the obligation the people of Idaho have to the rest of the Nation, as to the amount of wilderness we must supply? It is difficult for me to accept the concept of more and more while the working people of Idaho suffer from lack of jobs, and an adequate timber supply that we all know could be available.