Political Quotes

“I thank Senator Roberts. I look forward to working with him as well. And he is right. The wildfire problem is not just a budgeting problem--it is also a management problem. Reforming the way we manage our forests is absolutely crucial. Healthy, resilient forests are fire-resistant forests; yet despite knowing the value of fuel reduction treatments in mitigating wildfire risks, increasing firefighter safety, and protecting and restoring the health of our forests, active management is still often met with a series of discouraging and near insurmountable obstacles. High upfront costs, long planning horizons, and regulatory requirements--including what seem like unending environmental reviews-- are impeding our ability to implement treatments at the pace and scale these wildfires are occurring. We must also work with our State agencies, local communities, and the public to increase community preparedness and install fuel breaks to break up fuel connectivity to keep fires small. As you can see here, the chairmen of the committees with jurisdiction over the wildfire budgeting and forest management issues are ready to roll up our sleeves in 2016. We are going to work through regular order, in a transparent and collaborative manner, to come up with a legislative solution. We look forward to the input of our colleagues, who also care deeply about these issues.…”