Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

Mr. Kreisher. Yes, is this on? Senator McClure. My name is For rest Kreisher and I live in Elk River, Idaho. And I am speaking on behalf of somewhere around 200 loggers that live in Elk River, Bovill, Deary, Clarkia, and St. Maries, Idaho, who work for Potlatch Corp., and who couldn't be here today. I am speaking in opposition to setting aside anymore wilderness area within the Nez Perce, Clearwater, and St. Joe National Forests. I believe that the RARE II program that was finalized and supposedly satisfied the environmentalists and also the lumber industries had plenty of wilderness set aside within these areas. Logging is our livelihood. There is enough unemployment right now. With more timber set aside for wilderness, that means less jobs for the loggers. As far as roadless areas, all they represent is a forest fire hazard and can only be enjoyed by the very few. Speaking in regards to the Idaho Fish and Game Department, merchantable timber areas provides no food at all for the large game animals. By harvesting the timber and replanting, it makes a more productive life for the game animals. I hope that these thoughts are well taken. Thank you.