The announcement by the USDA Forest Service that the withdrawal of 234,000 acres in the Superior National Forest has been repealed reinforces the power of “ONE RANGE – ONE VOICE,” the Range Association of Municipalities & Schools (RAMS) motto.
Our communities, our businesses, our labor partners and elected officials all came together and spoke loudly and proudly on this issue at public hearings, rallies and through the media.
The Range is a mining center of excellence, we have done it for over 130 years, we care about our back yard and our neighbors’ back yard where we recreate and live. If anyone can access precious minerals safely, or harvest mature timber growth, meeting all required environmental standards, we can.
This decision allows important school trust fund acreage to begin producing more revenue for our public schools while providing jobs for the timber industry and potential mining projects, and at the same time also protecting our precious environment for generations of Rangers to come.
To all who turned out at the rallies and public hearings, give yourself a pat on the back – you made a difference, your voices were heard.
Today our future looks just a bit brighter. Thanks to Congressman Nolan for his bold, brave leadership, to Jobs for Minnesotans, and to Iron Rangers everywhere.
Steve Giorg
Executive director, RAMS
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