I am a deeply concerned individual troubled by the ongoing legislative attacks on our precious forests. The Fix Our Forests Act (FOFA), introduced by Representatives Bruce Westerman and Scott Peters, has been masqueraded as a solution to protect communities from wildfires. Unfortunately, it is nothing but a ploy; a Trojan horse that could expose our forests to increased logging and undermine the power of individuals to hold federal agencies responsible through legal suits. Furthermore, it risks reversing important environmental laws designed to protect endangered species.

Figures from the Forest Service confirm that logging does not reduce the likelihood of wildfires, contradicting the premise of this Act. In fact, many times it has been observed that logging can increase fire risks by leaving behind highly flammable debris and by opening forest canopies which can dry out the forest floor (Source: Research led by the U.S. Forest Service). It is distressful how this Act empowers corporations to exploit our diminishing forest resources, all under the pretext of community safety.

Continuing on this trajectory would have devastating effects, lending a permanent blow to the biodiversity of our forests and also contributing to climate change which we are so desperately trying to combat. It is our responsibility to hold the current administration accountable for their actions. Fatally flawed initiatives like the Fix Our Forests Act should be resisted.

I urge every environmentally conscious individual, every lover of our natural world, to join me. Let us raise our voices to save our forests. Sign this petition today. Encourage your legislators to oppose the Fix Our Forests Act. Together, we can prevent this destructive bill from being enacted.