Dear Editor: I am trying to make Sitkans aware of something that is very important to many users of the Tongass National Forest. That being the cuts in the work force of Forest Service employees. As stated by Senator Murkowski in an Alaska Beacon article which was posted in the Sentinel a few weeks back.
The Tongass National Forest (the largest National Forest in the country) and Chugach National Forest have had staffing cuts of 30%. On average nationwide, National Forest is down 17%, starting in 2025. Imagine trying to run a business with staffing cuts like these? Try getting employees when you might not have job security. Most of you have known Forest Service employees. You know these folks have good work ethics and are solid people who want to contribute to our forest and communities.
Senator Murkowski has been trying to get people involved as early as February 2025 where she stated “We have to stand up.” ‘‘The ‘we’ has to be more than just me. And this is where the challenge becomes more of a challenge,” Sentinel Feb. 20, 2025.
All users of our forest have preferences. I like hiking on maintained trails, going to FS recreation cabins, Starrigavan estuary walk. From what I have gathered, some of these dearly loved activities are at risk of maintenance back logs or just aren’t getting done.
Why it’s important to write to our D.C. Representatives. One: it needs to be done to protect things we love and use. Two: it is an election year. Three: it is our Forest, we have to fight for its mission and direction. Ms. Murkowski isn’t even up for election and she’s out there speaking up. Not sure where the other two who are up for election are on these matters because they don’t seem to address such.
If Tongass National Forest means something to you please consider contacting your reps to express your concerns and ask for meaningful action. As the headlines in the Sentinel after Murkowski’s visit to Sitka recently. CITIZEN INPUT VITAL, says SEN. MURKOWSKI.
Finally thanks to the Sentinel for the coverage and well-written articles on topics of local interest that have great importance in our lives.
John Murray, Sitka
