Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

GRANGEVILLE CHAPTER, IDAHO WOMEN IN TIMBER Ms. Crotinger. I'm Sherry Crotinger, speaking for Idaho Women in Timber, Grangeville Chapter. We are a grassroots organization of women who support sound management and use of forest resources. Our members recognize America's need for the social and environmental attributes of the forest as well as for forest products. We believe science and technology combined with environmental care can provide a substained flow of forest products without damaging the environment. We recognized the social, environmental, and economic benefits of sound forest management. Idaho Women in Timber supports the Idaho Forest Industries Council proposed legislation. If this wilderness roadless issue is not resolved, we will be seriously hurt economically. The loss of revenue from Forest Service timber sales has already affected our roads and school systems which could result in tax increases for all citizens. If this substantial release is not provided, then the timber industry is seriously threatened, which in turn touches our schools and road systems, the purchasing power of direct and indirect employees from buying homes, feeding and clothing our families, to paying our taxes. Our economy is finally on the upswing after a recession of three long years. It is senseless that we spend millions of dollars and several years for another RARE III, which is what our tax dollars pay for. Grangeville Chapter, Idaho Women in Timber believes that it is most urgent to resolve the wilderness issue.