Wilderness Bill Good for Nation
Wild, wonderful West Virginia will become wilder, in a way, if the U.S. Senate approves a bill forwarded to it by the House of Representatives. The measure is a win-win not just for our state, but also for the entire eastern United States.
Under a bill approved by the House, about 38,000 acres in the Monongahela National Forest, all within West Virginia, would receive federal “wilderness” designation. That would safeguard the area against most development, preserving it for future generations.
Strictly from an environmental standpoint, that is a good idea. Though gigantic tracts of land in western states already enjoy such protection, comparatively few in the East are safeguarded. One day, probably in the not-too-distant future, our descendants will thank us for preserving more of the eastern woodlands.
Our Mountain State already has a reputation among those who enjoy outdoor recreation. West Virginia is viewed as an excellent destination for those who want to get away from it all, to enjoy recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and similar pursuits. Tourism, in large measure because of outdoor recreation, is a substantial part of our economy. Adding 38,000 acres to the existing tracts of federally designated wilderness can only enhance our reputation.
Many area residents are familiar with the area under consideration.
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