43df9746_MENT_US_DEPARTMENT_OF_INTERIOR__Body
[#] EM-3148 [Sender] Terry Blattler [Subject] BLM Western Oregon Plan Revision [Date] 1/7/2008 17:23:33 [Body] 
Terry Blattler p.o. box522 Randle, WA 98377 January 7, 2008 Edward Shepard OR/WA State Director Bureau of Land Management PO Box 2965 Portland, OR 97208 Dear Edward Shepard: Please accept the following comments on the BLM's Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Revision of the Resource Management Plans for Western Oregon. Because of the unique nature of the O&C Lands, by law these lands are not available to be part of a reserve system designed to recover a listed species. The BLM should consider active management for the protection of listed and sensitive species and their habitat before adopting passive, reserve strategies. The alternative selected by the BLM, however, should be one that will not jeopardize the continued existence of listed species within the species entire habitat range. The BLM must develop and analyzes at least one alternative that maximizes the amount of land in timber production and receipts to local county governments, and meets its no jeopardy obligation. When implemented, the Plan should live up to the full commitment that was made to local counties. Access should be maintained through BLM administered lands for private land access, fire suppression, as well as recreational uses, such as hunting, fishing, boating and sightseeing. In summary, the economic viability of our rural communities and the overall health of our federal forests are of vital importance to me. I ask that you give these comments full consideration as you prepare the final Environmental Impact Statement and select the final management plans for the Western Oregon BLM Districts. Sincerely, Terry Blattler 360-497-0586
OREGON/WASHINGTON| BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT|US DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR