Compromise necessary on Mount Emily

The important thing is that contractors hired by Forest Capital Partners do the four units of logging this year while maintaining the ecological integrity of the 3,700-acre area. It’s crucial that environmental safeguards are in place, that there is long-term sustainability of the forest ecosystem.

It was good that the county stepped through the window of opportunity presented by MERA thanks to grants from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s ATV program and Blue Mountain Habitat Restoration. Acquiring the land required not only millions of dollars but some problem-solving compromises. Everyone involved had to cooperate on the basis of mutual interests and find the middle ground to get the deal done. The preferred alternative would have put the timber in the county’s hands, too, but the cost was out of reach. The second alternative at least put the land in the county’s hands.

As the county proceeds in management of MERA, it is important that they take an ecosensitive view regarding preservation and balanced use of natural resources, with science-based resource management. Wise stewardship will be vital to the area’s long-term success, as sustainable consumption levels of recreation are doled out among ATVers, archers, hikers, horseback riders and others, and sustained yield is achieved in timber harvest.

It is good that advisory committee members and community partners are getting together to hash out details that will make the MERA acquisition a long-term success. Studying Morrow County’s successful ATV program and seeing what can be applied here is an important step, since ATV enthusiasts are growing in numbers, travel long distances to prime riding areas and help support local economies.

With MERA being a public land project, it involves multiple use management not just for ATVers but entailing the greatest good for the greatest number of people. Ecosystem management such as in MERA requires intelligent multiple use.

The future looks bright for MERA and its contributions to quality of life for area residents and visitors. By preserving this tract for future generations, the county is protecting our natural heritage and providing our children’s due inheritance — a livable planet.

So, when the logging begins this year, keep in mind the big picture — that in the long term a carefully managed MERA will help make La Grande and environs a healthier and better place to live.