Heritage Forests Campaign News Release

April 23, 2003

"America is a land of majestic beauty, and we are blessed with immeasurable natural wealth. Americans are united in the belief that we must preserve this treasured heritage and conserve these natural resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the American people."

-- President Bush, on National Park Week 2003
April 18, 2003

"President Bush’s Earth Day statement about protecting our natural heritage would be a breath of fresh air, if only he meant it. But actions speak louder than words. Since taking office, his administration has launched a steady stream of attacks on our national forests, parks, and public lands on behalf of corporate special interests.

"And while it is hard to believe the President has had a change of heart, stranger things have happened. If President Bush is sincere about turning his abysmal environmental record around, he has a great starting point -- supporting the Roadless Area Conservation Rule.

"The Roadless Rule is already written, adopted and supported by millions of Americans. By supporting this rule he will be protecting 58.5 million acres of our last wild forests and enforcing the most popular rule in a generation -- it’s that easy.

"Our last pristine forests embody the majestic beauty of America’s landscape and are our gift to future generations. Keeping these forests free from extensive road-building and logging protects drinking water sources, critical habitat for fish and wildlife, and gives the gift that keeps on giving -- a lasting forest legacy.

"Supporting the Roadless Rule would give his shallow Earth Day statement some depth."

Contact: Tony Iallonardo, NET
(202) 887-8855

The Heritage Forests Campaign is an alliance of conservationists, wildlife advocates, clergy, educators, scientists, and other Americans who are working together to uphold protection of our National Forests.