Crossett understands need to protect forests

We are blessed to have Bonner County Commissioner Todd Crossett represent the values of nature on our behalf.

As I imagine most of us feel, we live in one of the most beautiful places in this country.

If you are like me, I make it through winter’s trials to be able to enjoy the magnificence of the mountain scenery, wildlife, clean air and water.

But without land use practices that are sensitive to not only human needs but water resources, wetlands, critters, climate, all that we love will change Š in fact, is changing.

My work is about helping local governments grasp the benefits of forests for not only its economic benefit but for its ability to preserve groundwater, filter sediment, cool soil, sequester carbon, provide habitat and preserve watersheds.

But I cannot do my work unless we have public officials willing to support such measures.

Without Todd Crossett, out-of-town developers could change all that we treasure, financially capitalize on this magnificence, and leave behind severely fragmented and damaged landscapes.

Todd has listened intently to many groups of citizens about these issues, attended countless meetings, participating in planning processes, provided support that folks like me only dream of in local government.

Because of him, I feel we are able to make a difference, create meaningful codes and protect more of our natural resources.

So, I encourage all of you in Bonner County to start considering now the gift we have in his being a county commissioner, commit now for his fall re-election, and spread the word about how much he stands for caretaking the beauty of our wild Idaho.

NANCY GILLIAM

Sagle