284 



9. The broad-scale modeling analyses are suspect. We have found several data 

 compilations and analyses that are seriously misleading and could result in inappropriate 

 management direction. 



Despite their serious nature, most of these problems are fixable. The project has the 

 potential to resolve forest health problems and provide sustainable values, but much work 

 is needed. Enough time should be taken to make corrections, but at a rapid pace. 



The project should give broad, but clear direction to future forest management. It should 

 leave sufficient decision space for the individual forest and land management plan 

 amendment process to address local conditions. There has been an attempt to maintain 

 flexibility within the proposed strategies, but there is little guidance on how to use that 

 flexibility. The project needs to provide leadership and support to forest managers in 

 restoring forest health by encouraging local solutions rather than ultra-conservative, 

 politically-safe management defaults. 



