Dear Alaska Coalition of Iowa Leaders,
Here is the Alert that I mentioned last week - the votes are expected at the
earliest on Wednesday, most likely on Thursday. Please consider sending this
to your networks if you are able.
Thanks for your continued support for protecting wild Alaska~
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End Taxpayer Supported Clear-cutting of the Tongass National Forest!
Every year, American taxpayers have been forced to subsidize clear-cut
logging in the Tongass National Forest in Alaska, our country's largest
national forest, which is also the largest intact temperate rainforest in
the world (even more rare than tropical rainforests since there are only 6
temperate rainforests worldwide).
In 2005 alone, taxpayers spent $48 million on the Tongass logging program
and received only about $500,000 million in revenue. Since 1982, the
logging program has lost close to $1 billion building logging roads to
nowhere in order to support the failing timber program, averaging a $40
million loss every year for the last 25. Taxpayers shouldn't have to
shoulder a failing program.
The Tongass supports black bears, orcas, world class salmon runs, bald
eagles, deer, and many other animals, all of whom depend on the forest
remaining intact. Many Alaskan businesses, fishermen, hunting guides, and
outfitters agree that the Tongass timber program not only harms the region's
economy, but is also a huge waste of taxpayer dollars.
As early as Wednesday (May 17), the House of Representatives will be voting
on an amendment sponsored by Representatives Steve Chabot (R-OH) and Rob
Andrews (D-NJ) to end the taxpayer subsidy to build logging roads in the
Tongass National Forest.
We need your help to convince Congress to support the Chabot / Andrews
amendment. Please call your Representative TODAY and urge them to vote YES
on the Chabot / Andrews Tongass subsidy amendment.
Call 1-800-841-7299. You'll be asked for your zip code so that you can be
connected to your Representative's office.
When you call, tell the person answering the phone three things.
1.. Tell them that you are a voter.
2.. Tell them where you live.
3.. Tell them that you're calling in support of the Chabot / Andrews
Tongass subsidy amendment to the Interior Appropriations Bill.
thanks~!
Lois Norrgard
Regional Organizer
Alaska Coalition
10368 Columbus Circle
Bloomington MN 55420
ph/fx: 952.881-7282
[log in to unmask]
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