State Rep. Joel Sheltrown, D-West Branch, will host a public meeting at the Richfield Township Hall in St. Helen to discuss clearcutting and related forestry issues. The meeting will occur Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m.
Sheltrown said he determined a public meeting about clearcutting was necessary after receiving an elevated number of complaints over the summer. He said high numbers of deer hunters, tourists, homeowners and recreational vehicle enthusiasts have contacted him to complain about the impacts of clearcutting.
"It appears that there has been a breakdown in communication between the DNR and the public," Sheltrown said. "A public meeting will help better understand the Department of Natural Resources' forest management strategy and encourage them to look at alternatives that minimize human impact."
The DNR has agreed to participate in the clearcutting meeting. DNR foresters and wildlife biologists will make a short presentation about clearcutting. Sheltrown will then moderate an hour-long audience question and comment period.