Imagine looking up at elegant spires of trees towering 250-feet above you. Imagine standing in a forest of living giants and believing that every living thing has a spirit. Imagine that these old big trees are the keepers of the streams and salmon, of soil, food, medicine, people and peace.

There are many things a person can imagine standing in an ancient forest of the Pacific Northwest, but can any one imagine a world without them?

Even though scientific and economic communities present the clearest cases as to why mature forests should be protected, and even though 70 percent of American citizens support the preservation of these old-growth forests, we are in immediate danger of losing what remains of these rare places.

In February 2002 regional economists made recommendations to halt logging in mature western forests. The following points were made to show that old-growth forests are worth more to the nation if left standing: 1) Older forests have become increasingly scarce, and as a result of this scarcity the recreational values of these forests have increased relative to the value of their extractive value. 2) Many Americans consider these ancient forests and their associated biological diversity to be important national treasures. 3) Ecosystem services provided by these forests, such as flood control, water quality protection, climate stabilizers, carbon sinks and their importance for the maintenance of salmon runs, are just a few reasons for protecting old-growth forests from the political and corporate forces of destruction.

You can help change the outcome of the proposed cutting plans for ancient trees on public lands by calling Northwest Ecosystem Alliance, (360) 671-9950. You can also call the capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121, and ask representatives to protect all old-growth forests in Oregon and Washington.

Ask the president and Congress to use their imaginations for a change and make decisions which are in the best interest of people and the environment.

Teresa Dix

Coupeville