Re the National Park Service study:  I certainly understand the desire for
National Park status for the Hills.   However, I think that the study, if
followed by funding, could result in a much better future for the Hills,
regardless of whether national park status is recommended.

The most ecologically significant resources in the Hills are the prairie
remnants.  At this point, the major threats to the prairies include sprawl,
fill dirt removal, and invasion by woody species.  The last threat is
currently the worst in many areas, including some public land.  All these
threats could be addressed by helping private and public landowners with good
land management, and by encouraging and supporting conservation easements.

There is deep fear about public land acquisition, especially federal
acquisition, among some Hills landowners.   That fear has political
implications.   Instead of battles over land acquisition, it would be more
productive to put energy into helping private owners take care of their land.
   Many private landowners really need and want help with controlled burning,
cedar removal, and other management.   Many landowners would be interested in
conservation easements if they understood what easements could do for them,
for their land, and for the future.    And some landowners are willing to
sell their land for conservation purposes, if the land will be owned by
private organizations or by state or local agencies.

In addition, designating a portion of the Hills as a national park would not
address the issue of what happens to the natural resources in the rest of the
Hills.   The entire landform is ecologically valuable and needs help.   From
the conservation point of view, the most important thing is what happens to
Loess Hills land, not who owns it.

I am very grateful for the good work that Senator Harkin and his staff have
done in regard to the National Park Service study of the Loess Hills.
Already there is more good land management underway in the Hills as a result.
  If this study results in a better future for the Hills and their resources,
which is much more likely if funding is found, the study will be a success,
whether that future includes national park status or not.



Cindy Hildebrand
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Ames, IA  50010

"The scenery of the prairie is striking, and never fails to cause an
exclamation of surprise.   The extent of the prospect is exhilarating.   The
verdure and the flowers are beautiful, the absence of shade, and consequent
appearance of light, produce a gaiety which animates the beholder...."  (J.
Plumbe, Jr.)

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