1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

The Trump administration's recent executive order to expand logging across 280 million acres of national forests and public lands is a blatant attempt to exploit these protected areas for profit. This action ignores scientific evidence, endangers vulnerable species, and jeopardizes the ecological integrity of our nation's forests. Increased logging will not mitigate wildfire risks as claimed, but instead create hotter, drier conditions that exacerbate the spread of wildfires. Circumventing the Endangered Species Act to fast-track logging projects threatens the survival of hundreds of species, including grizzly bears, spotted owls, and wild salmon that depend on these habitats. Furthermore, clearcutting ancient forests will release vast amounts of stored carbon, accelerating climate change. These irreplaceable ecosystems serve as carbon sinks, helping to mitigate the effects of greenhouse gas emissions. Protecting old-growth forests is crucial for addressing the climate crisis. This executive order prioritizes short-term profits for the logging industry over the long-term health of our environment and the well-being of future generations. We must take action to preserve our public lands and safeguard these vital natural resources from exploitation. I urge you to take a stand against this destructive policy and defend the integrity of our national forests.