FORESTS: One danger spot

The editorial in the Coeur d’Alene Press of April 19 addresses the issue of the lack of management of our National Forests.

I previously wrote about the despicable condition of the forest service land that borders Lancaster and English Point roads. You would expect that forest land close to residential areas with multiple hiking trails would represent the ultimate example of a well-managed forest.

On the contrary, this area is the ultimate example of not only mismanagement but essentially no management at all. Since it is on an elevated area, it is susceptible to a lightning strike and “Katy Bar the Door” if a wildfire ever began there. Fueled by the excess of standing and fallen dead trees, the resulting firestorm could destroy nearby homes in minutes.

It is unfortunate that our local Forest Service employees can’t make the trip of a few miles down the road and implement a restoration and clean up of this area.

A logger friend volunteered to remove some of the dead trees and donate them to Elder Help. He was informed he would have to carry the wood out by hand since he could not leave any vehicle tracks in the woods. Could they be so lucky to have a few vehicle tracks instead of fallen and dead trees.

To view the ultimate example of bad national forest service management, go east on Lancaster to English Point Road. As you drive south on English Point, you’ll see the National Forest Service sign on the left. They should be embarrassed to admit ownership of this land.

WILLIAM TARNASKY

Coeur d’Alene