I'm very concerned that the Forest Service's attempts to revise the viability section of the new rule will lead to endless legal wrangling, not more responsible forest management.

I want to be certain that our National Forests are managed so that they are good neighbors with adjoining state and private forests and do not pose an unnecessary fire threat.

The health of our National Forests is an issue of vital importance for rural America.

I am concerned that the frequency and intensity of these fires is a result of forests that have not been adequately managed.

The health of our National Forest is an issue of vital importance for rural America.

I am appalled by the president's policies who--you know, we have almost 14 million Americans who are unemployed.

Rep. Thompson asked if DOL collects data on the number of jobs which employers are unable to fill with qualified workers.

I want to really zero in on something important in my state, and obviously present in the Allegheny National Forest, but also important nationally, the permitting related to natural gas production on our national forests.

If the President's budget comes up short in terms of clearing these hurdles to energy production and mineral production, I guess I have concerns.

The local discretion, I think it has positive's but I think it has some potential threats as well.

Thank you, Chairman. Thanks to the panelists for attending this hearing today.