Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

CHAPTER, WOMEN IN TIMBER Ms. Barker. Thank you, Senator. I also appreciate this opportunity to testify. I am a resident of Orofino, Idaho. Harriet Barker, and at this time I, represent the Women in Timber. I do have a testimony I would also like to read. The Clearwater Chapter of Women in Timber has 18 active members, which comprises 72 people, that depend solely on the timber industry for their livelihood. We have studied and listened about the RARE II roadless issue in the Clearwater area and desire to strike a balance between what should be wilderness and what should be multiple use. The primary factor is to have adequate timber that these people can raise their families without degrading them to receiving unemployment more than the weather dictates. As long as this issue remains in its present state, not one of these families can make plans for the future. Their land of promises is a constant frustration. 509 One specific family has bought land and tried for the past 6 years to start and build their first home, but by the time fall rolls around it's always maybe next year. In 1982 the father worked IVz months. Our people live and work here in Clearwater County and enjoy the hunting and fishing just like the tourists. They pay their share of taxes and contribute to the community. In the Clearwater area, Orofino is the largest town which depends entirely on the timber industry for its payroll. To consider the money spent by the loggers for rubber, insurance, fuel, food, clothing, and recreation is to see a town dry up without it. When a person thinks of adding more wilderness to the 3.8 million acres already set aside, it's like taking x number of areas and saying they no longer exist in the United States. We think Congress does not mean to do this. It is vital that these roadless areas be settled permanently. We are sure after 20 years of study Congress can vote on a bill that is acceptable for timber management and wilderness without more tax burden on the taxpayer. The Clearwater Chapter of Women in Timber do not want to see a RARE HI study or $30 million more spent. We propose to have Idaho drawn back into the main stream of the other 49 States, so raising and educating a family, enjoying the scenic beauty, and recreating how we choose, and being able to share the wealth and burden that makes this country the greatest on Earth. Thank you, Senator.