As DNR foresters continue to mark trees to prepare for auction this winter, it's truly not too late to reconsider their management plan, however calls MUST BE MADE TODAY. Forrest Boe (DNR Forester) said he takes our concerns seriously. Let's be sure he and other DNR decision-makers understand how serious AND well-informed we are. We have reason to turn this around, and we have two super-powers to back us up: Science and Policy. ITS CONVENIENT FOR THE DNR TO CHOOSE TO WORK WITH OUTDATED AND INCOMPLETE DATA, AND IT IS THIS INFORMATION THAT HAS DRIVEN THE DECISION TO LOG THIS STAND. HOWEVER, in October, experts with decades of experience in old-growth evaluation and policy unanimously agreed that this area contains well functioning old-growth forest. THIS IS INFORMATION THAT CANNOT BE IGNORED! PLEASE CALL YOUR MN STATE REPRESENTATIVE and the DNR (it's easy -please click here for your Rep.'s contact information: https://www.gis.leg.mn/iMaps/districts/) Tell them this is in regards to the proposed timber harvest on the North Arm Trails near Ely. AND SIMPLY ASK: 1. SCIENCE: We expect the DNR to recognize the forest for what it is: a healthy "type 2 old-growth system", as recognized by experts in old-growth evaluation and certification. We ask that they not rely the incomplete and outdated information that currently is driving their decision. 2. POLICY: We expect the DNR to follow required FSC standards and protect this old growth system from harvest. The DNR is tasked with managing forests, and they must follow standards set by their auditor, the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC). FSC Certification DOES NOT ALLOW harvesting of old-growth forests. 3. We believe we can work together to create a win-win situation. The old-growth portions of this forest needs to be recognized and can be protected as required by FSC, and we can work together to create partnerships to help manage other areas if needed. WHEN YOU SEE HOW EASY THAT WAS, YOU'LL WANT TO CALL: DNR head of Forestry, Forrest Boe: 651-259-5300 and Governor Mark Dayton's office: 651-201-3400 They all need to know we are well informed and paying attention. Ignoring science and policy is reckless. Thank you for taking two minutes to make this call - your two minutes could save a forest that is well over 130 years old.