
To the U.S. Forest Service

I recently heard that the White River National Forest is considering future plans for oil and gas leasing over the next 15-20 years. I would like to share with you my thoughts on the matter.  First of all I support Alternative B.  

I would like to see ALL roadless areas made unavailable for leasing.  

In addition the Thompson Divide should be entirely UNAVAILABLE for oil and gas development.  In the 18 years I have lived in the area Thompson Divide has been a place I frequently recreate and I would like to see it free of leases.  I realize there will be areas in the White River National Forest that will be leases for oil and gas purposes.  I believe this should happen in places that are already developed, from areas with existing disturbance.  

Also where oil and gas development occurs I would like to see the Forest Service get more aggressive about emission controls.  Our air quality is an amazing asset and we should not risk lowering that quality.


The White River National Forest is near and dear to me and countless others.  It is important for water production, agriculture, recreation, tourism, wildlife and wildland values.  Please protect it from increased development.

Thank you for taking the time to review my comments.  

Kate Burchell
11104 County Road 115
Carbondale, CO 81623

