376 



-4- 



analyzing a broad range of suggested changes to the TLMP Identified 1n an 

 extensive public process. Including the environmental, economic, and social 

 consequences of each suggested change. Other factors being examined are the 

 flow of resulting goods and services, the associated costs and benefits, 

 resource management standards and guidelines, mitigation measures, and 

 monitoring requirements. 



A draft EIS is scheduled for completion in June of this year and will 

 again be subject to public review. After comments are received and 

 incorporated, a final environmental impact statement and final revised TLMP 

 will be developed for the Regional Forester's approval. Once approved by 

 the Regional Forester, that decision may be appealed to the Chief of the 

 Forest Service. 



When signing the NFMA on October 22, 1976, former President Ford 

 praised it as providing "balanced consideration of all resources in the land 

 management process." The late Senator Humphrey similarly praised the act as 

 being a "milestone in Federal policy towards management of our vast National 

 Forest System " 



Conclusion 



The Chamber believes that Congress acted wisely in crafting a measure 

 that provides broad policy direction within which the Forest Service can 

 operate with flexibility to meet specific forest management needs. Senator 

 Humphrey argued in 1979, and the Chamber contends now, a national forest 

 cannot effectively be managed from Capitol Hill. 



