Comments Needed by September 16th


The Black Hills National Forest of South Dakota and Wyoming is like no other
forest in the world.  Rising high above the surrounding plains, the island
ecosystem of the 'Hills is incredibly diverse, harboring species of wildlife
and plant communities that exist nowhere else in the world

Unfortunately, the Forest Service (FS) has failed to protect and restore
these natural values.  The Black Hills is one of the most heavily developed
forests in this country, a distinction that threatens the long-term survival
of many native fish, wildlife, and plant species.

Due to citizen pressure, the FS agreed to reevaluate Black Hills management.
Through the "Phase II" amendment to their long-term management plan, the FS
may provide protection desperately needed on the Black Hills.

The Phase II Amendment may actually protect native species and their habitats
on the Black Hills, protect research natural areas for future research and
enjoyment, and ensure the natural values of the Black Hills are not
sacrificed for short-term economic gain.

However, the Phase II Amendment won't provide these necessary environmental
protections unless concerned citizens demand it!

Currently, the Forest Service is in the process of developing "alternatives"
for the Phase II Amendment.  The alternatives are developed primarily to
respond to public concerns and demands.  However, the final alternative that
is selected usually reflects what the public demands most.

The Forest Service is now seeking public comment on possible alternatives.
This is an important opportunity to let the agency know you demand protection
of the Black Hills ecosystem.  Your comments can make a huge difference.

Please send comments asking the Forest Service to develop an alternative that:

-- Emphasizes protection and natural restoration of all native plant and
animal communities, including aquatic communities and those dependent on
old-growth.
-- Protects all roadless areas over 1,000 acres to provide habitat for native
species that are sensitive to human disturbances.
-- Protects all existing old-growth forest and allows a greater amount of
younger forest to reach old- growth condition.
-- Designates Research Natural Areas to protect the best examples of all
native plant communities and other natural features.
-- Specifically designates a "Limestone Plateau" Research Natural Area to
protect Black Hills montane grasslands and natural values found within the
Jasper Fire burn area.
-- Implements conservation strategies for all "sensitive species" and their
habitats, and for other vulnerable plants and wildlife not on the sensitive
species list.
-- Reduces the road density on the forest by prohibiting road construction
and obliterating unnecessary and environmentally damaging roads and
two-track; 8,000 miles is enough!
-- Allows natural processes such as wildfire and insect outbreaks, to provide
wildlife habitat and ensure long-term forest health.
-- Monitors populations of native species to ensure their long-term survival.
-- Achieves Environmental Justice by fully considering the environmental
impacts of forest management to the values and beliefs of American Indian
communities.

Your comments will let the Forest Service know that management must focus on
protecting and restoring the Black Hills ecosystem, for our health and the
health of the natural world.

Please send a letter to the Forest Service by September 16, 2002 to:


Attn:  Jeff Ulrich
Phase II Amendment
Black Hills National Forest
25041 North Highway 16
Custer, SD 57730

You can also call or e-mail Jeff Ulrich of the Black Hills N.F. to express
your concerns and comments at (605) 673-9228 or [log in to unmask]

For more information, contact Heather Morijah, Sierra Club, 1101 E.
Philadelphia Ave. #250, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 (605)331-6001 or
[log in to unmask]



Erin E. Jordahl
Director, Iowa Chapter Sierra Club
3839 Merle Hay Road, Suite 280
Des Moines, IA 50310
515-277-8868
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