Braving the rain on a Campaign hike to old-growth trees in lesser-known Dresser Grove, Jackson Sate Forest. Photo: Vinve Taylor

Until this year, all efforts to get the state to reform management of Jackson State Forest ran up against a stone wall. The state refused to give up the $10-15 million in annual profits it was reaping from large-scale logging of the public forest. Now after four years of losing lawsuits, growing public protests and, most importantly, court orders halting all timber production, the wall appears to have finally crumbled. The prospects for meaningful reform are brighter than ever before.

On February 20, 2004, Senator Wes Chesbro introduced a bill, SB 1648, to change the laws governing Jackson State Forest and other state forests.The bill replaces the present mandate for maximum timber production with multiple values, including conservation, restoration, recreation, education, research and demonstration. The bill protects mature second growth in Jackson Forest and establishes a citizens' advisory committee. The bill would move the forest strongly in the direction that the Campaign to Restore Jackson State Redwood Forest has been recommending.

Also in February 2004, the Board of Forestry initiated a new round of environmental review for Jackson State Forest. The implications of the new environmental review could be far reaching. For the first time, the Board of Forestry has assumed full responsibility for preparing the legally required environmental review required. It also has the responsibility for guiding the preparation of the management plan for Jackson State Forest.

At its April meeting, the Board of Forestry will decide whether to reopen the management plan for revision. It will be under great pressure to do so from many directions, including the court, the public, and the pending legislation. A positive decision by the Board would create new opportunities for working cooperatively with the state to ensure that our public forest's values are preserved and enhanced.

Get the latest news and join our campaign at www.jacksonforest.com.


More Updates

• November, 2002 Update
  
• August, 2002 Update
  

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