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in trees within the buffer zone. Suspension of 

 logs is critical to reducing or eliminating the 

 impacts to soils and water quality from yarding. 

 4. For purposes of enhancing fisheries production, 

 removal of timber from within buffer strips should 

 be allowed on those occasions where it is of 

 benefit to the fisheries resource. This activity 

 should occur only after full interdisciplinary 

 review, and consultation with the Alaska Dept. of 

 Fish and Game. 

 Mandating buffer strips by law will make the Tongass 

 different that other National Forest, usurp the Tongass Land 

 Management Planning process and will take away the opportunity to 

 manage the resources on a site specific basis. Congress should 

 address what the objectives of management are, but leave it to 

 the professional managers as to how this is best accomplished. 

 Dr. Martin will be glad to answer any questions on this subject. 



In conclusion, we urge you to treat the Tongass like 

 other National forests. 



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