LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL. 



5 



"9. The floods in these mountain -born streams, if this forest destruc 

 tion continues, will increase in frequency and violence and in the 

 extent of their damages, both within this region and across the bor- 

 dering States. The extent of these damages, like those from the wash- 

 ing of the mountain fields and roads, can not be estimated with perfect 

 accuracy, but during the present year alone the total has approximated 

 $10,000,000, a sum sufficient to purchase the entire area I'ecom- 

 mended for the proposed reserve. But this loss can not be estimated 

 in money value alone. Its continuance means the early destruction of 

 conditions most valuable to the nation, and which neither skill nor 

 wealth can restore. 



"10. The preservation of the forests, of the streams, and of the 

 agricultui'al interests here described can be successfully accomplished 

 only by the purchase and creation of a national forest reserve. The 

 States of the Southern Appalachian region own little or no land, and 

 their revenues are inadequate to carry out this plan. Federal action 

 is obviously necessary, is fully justified by reasons of public necessity, 

 and may be expected to have most fortunate results." 



With these conclusions I fully agree; and I heartilj^ commend this 

 measure to the favorable consideration of the Congress. 



Theodore Roosevelt. 



White House, 



December 19, 1901. 



