Protect Our Heritage Forests

Heritage Forests Campaign Week In Review
January 6, 2003

For More Information Contact: Jennifer Coate, NET, 202-887-8855 or 202-320-0693 (cell)

ROADLESS RULE LAW OF THE LAND
The 9th Circuit Court ruled last Thursday in favor of the American people who participated in the most inclusive rulemaking in history and for the 58.5 million acres of pristine forests that are now protected. To read the decision:
www.ca9.uscourts.gov/ca9/newopinions.nsf/BF7AED3870353A3E88256C8D00576B6C/$file/0135472.pdf

For more information on the Roadless Area Conservation Rule visit: www.allears.org

The Roadless Rule effectively suspends the Bush Administration's plans to begin large-scale clearcutting in many of the roadless areas in the Tongass National Forest. For more information: www.alaskacoalition.org

The Roadless Rule will provide permanent protection for these areas despite efforts by the Administration to use revised forest planning regulations to undermine roadless protection.

BUSH WEAKENS FOREST REGULATIONS WITHOUT SOUND SCIENCE
On Monday, 11 House Republicans called on Secretary Veneman to ask the National Academy of Sciences to review the Administration's proposed forest regulations before they are final. To view the letter: www.defenders.org/newsroom/Veneman.pdf

The revised forest planning regulations, proposed the day before Thanksgiving, weaken environmental and wildlife protections, and restrict public participation. To view the regulations:
http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/14mar20010800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2002/02-30683.htm

LOGGING UNDER THE GUISE OF FIRE
Last Wednesday, the Bush Administration elaborated on its Healthy Forest Initiative, by proposing as little as one-page documentation before granting exemptions from environmental review (NEPA). To view the proposal:
http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/14mar20010800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2002/02-31576.htm

The Washington Post, December 11, 2002 www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A42732-2002Dec11.html

HOUSE DEMOCRATS RELEASE REPORT: DOI IGNORES SCIENCE
Titled Weird Science, House Resource Democrats released a new report yesterday outlining the Administrations manipulation of science for political and industry gains. To view the report:
www.house.gov/apps/list/hearing/ii00_democrats/weirdscience.html

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NOTE: For copies of all stories, letters, and government documents, please contact Jennifer Coate at 202-887-8855.

The Heritage Forests Campaign is an alliance of conservationists, wildlife advocates, clergy, educators, scientists, and other Americans working together to uphold protection of our National Forests. Heritage Forests Campaign's partners include Alaska Rainforest Coalition, American Hiking Society, Earthjustice Legal Defense Fund, National Environmental Trust, National Audubon Society, Natural Resources Defense Council, US PIRG, and The Wilderness Society.