Political Quotes

“I rise today to highlight some meaningful progress underway on the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests to improve the health of these forests. These collaborative efforts are showing progress, and they are an example of where we can go nationally. Collaboration brings results. I have been a longtime champion of collaboration to address public lands management disputes, as collaborative processes are good for the environment and good for natural-resource based economies. Collaborative problem-solving is a key way to ensure that all voices are heard and long-term solutions are crafted. Working together through collaboration does not require a sacrifice of principles, but it does require earnest negotiations with respect for ideas from all perspectives and a willingness to work to understand each other's objectives. Inevitably, at several points along the collaborative path, there are strong disagreements. However, participants' refusal to quit is a key attribute of successful collaborative efforts. One of the greatest benefits of collaboration is that it enables the achievement of solutions that are better than the status quo for all stakeholders. Such solutions are better for the environment and the economy. Through collaboration, participants can actually achieve their objectives and in ways that benefit the entire community. The work on the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests is a great example of the benefits of collaborative efforts.…”