Re: “It’s not lost. It’s changed” (July 10, A1) and “Oregon forest research hub could soon be axed by feds” (July 10, Northwest):
It is not often that we get to read about the history and science of forest fires written with beautiful descriptive prose in a regional newspaper. Lynda Mapes is an incredible writer.
Sadly, the Trump administration is considering axing research funding at the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest. The current post-wildfire research at this site may provide much-needed insight into the composition and structure needed for future forests to survive under climate change.
The systematic destruction of science by this administration is a major impediment to achieving climate resilience for our forests and society. Progress will slow without federal support, but we are fortunate to live in a state that is actively addressing climate change through the Climate Commitment Act.
Ellyn Murphy, Bellingham
