[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 57 (Thursday, April 19, 2012)]
[House]
[Page H1981]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       AMERICA'S NATIONAL FORESTS

  (Mr. COFFMAN of Colorado asked and was given permission to address 
the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. COFFMAN of Colorado. Madam Speaker, if managed wisely, America's 
national forests can provide a safe wildlife habitat, recreational 
opportunities, and thousands of jobs in the timber industry.
  Unfortunately, a lack of effective forest management in the United 
States has led to poor forest health. This can and does cause 
catastrophic forest fires.
  Recently, in Colorado, the North Fork fire destroyed 27 homes and 
killed 3 homeowners. The fire was caused by a prescribed burn designed 
to prevent a catastrophic forest fire. Clearly, this incident 
exemplifies the need for alternative forest management tools, such as 
increased timber harvesting, to reduce the risk of wildfires in the 
future.
  Through prudent forest management and the ability to access and 
harvest our timber resources, these communities can support jobs while 
fostering healthy forests, safeguarding the natural beauty of Colorado 
and the Nation, and protecting against dangerous wildfires.

                          ____________________