Thank you for your front-page article on Forest Service ranger stations not issuing BWCA permits this year and the impacts on private businesses. Many people still do not realize the depth of change going on in the Forest Service and our forest, the Superior. Phrases like “on-going budget and staffing woes” may sound like business as usual. Someone said “…cut-backs have been a campaign promise for decades …” The Forest Service as an agency and the employees cannot speak out to what is really happening. But we can point out the “white elephant” in the woods. These are not normal retirements or changes in staffing. People are being yanked back and forth, demoralized, forced to make life decisions with no warning within days, left with no idea of what is next by the so-called “savings” this administration claims. It is cruel and unusual punishment by all means to people who have dedicated their lives to service to people and the natural world that we all love. These are our neighbors, friends and family, many in the prime of their work years. Not only do we lose them, but we also lose their knowledge and experience! And if one wonders what these changes will bring to our forests, the wildlife, waters and vegetation, just remember the chaos of covid as an example. It is a sad day for all of us.
Sherry Phillips
