Cass backs resolutions for more logging on state, federal lands

WALKER -- Cass County commissioners gave their support to two resolutions Tuesday, calling for state and federal governments to permit more rather than less logging on state and federal lands.

One resolution initiated by Itasca County calls for the Minnesota Legislature to pass the Right to Practice Forestry Act.

That resolution notes, "... the proper use of forest resources is an inherent element in the viability and sustainability of communities located in forestland," among a series of points.

Commissioners Dick Downham and Jim Dowson also will present at a meeting with U.S. Forest Service officials at 2 p.m. July 30 at the courthouse in Walker a state of Wisconsin petition supporting a more liberal timber cutting management plan for federal lands than the USFS currently is presenting as its favored option in a new land management plan under consideration.

The USFS is in the process until August of receiving comment on its proposed, revised management plan for federal forest lands. The public is welcome to attend the July 30 meeting in Walker or to make comment to any USFS office.

Commissioner Jim Demgen obtained a copy of the Wisconsin petition at a National Association of Counties meeting he recently attended in Milwaukee.

Demgen also reported to the board counties throughout the country where federal forest land is located have seen federal payments in lieu of taxes rise from $105 million in 1995 to $210 million in 2002.

Payments are expected to rise to $225 million this year, Demgen said. With Chippewa National Forest covering the northern third of Cass County, the county receives a share of these funds annually.

Land Commissioner Norm Moody reported to the county board Tuesday, Cass will receive $1,005,087 this year from the state forfeited tax settlement, down from a high the last 11 years in 2002 of $1,572,518.

The county will distribute $134,652 of that among eligible cities, townships and school districts. The average tax forfeited fund payment the county has received the last 11 years has been $816,464.

The board passed a resolution setting aside 25 percent of the county's share this year for reforestation and 5 percent to maintain recreational trails.