To the Editor:
This letter was also sent to Tori Kim, director of MEPA (Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act) Office.
I am contacting you regarding the forest I spent close to 25 years caring for and conducting silviculture work in for the state under Manuel Correllus and with Tom Robinson, while clear-cutting a section of mature white pine that was the former nature trail behind the headquarters.
Clear-cuts are never a preferred way to manage a forest, especially in one of the more beautiful parts of the forest, which also sequesters a great deal of carbon. Many people on the Island, plus visitors who walk, ride bikes, and walk their dogs on the Red Trail, are amazed at the beauty of the area, which is selected to be basically turned into an ugly mess if clear-cut. Plus, this is a great waste of state funds, which could be used more wisely. I recently broke my clavicle in an accident because of the deplorable condition of the bike trails, which desperately need repair, and I have a friend who shattered her elbow because of the conditions.
I hope you reconsider this endeavor, as it will release significant amounts of carbon into the atmosphere at a time when the international court considers this a crime. We need more mature stands of timber, not fewer. Thank you.
Chas de Geofroy, forester
Chilmark
Chas de Geofroy. I agree 100%.