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Billie
& Jerry Lauerman September 1, 2007 Governor Chris Gregoire Dear Governor Gregoire: In March 2007 I wrote regarding the Upper Stehekin Valley River Road issue. This is still an "issue" but now there is a House Resolution 3408 introduced by Congressman Doc Hastings regarding the relocation of this road. I'm not an individual who writes letters "at the drop of a hat", but when there is an important issue at stake it's time to stand up and be counted. To begin with, the decision to close the upper 10 miles of this road made very little sense. This is a "National Park" which means it should be accessible to everyone, not just to the under 60 group who are able to hike into the wilderness areas with their backpacks for several days at a time. By closing the road at Car Wash Falls very few my age (77) will ever be able to see the magnificence of the North Cascades. This is truly a site to behold. I called it a magical place before and that is the only way it can be described. The trails and backcountry areas are among the most pristine in the United States and by keeping this road open many individuals will be able to learn about the treasures of this National Park. House Resolution 3408 will give the National Park Service the ability to relocate the road away from the river on higher ground with very little net loss in the Stephen Mather Wilderness area which seems more realistic than just indiscriminately closing off this area. The Stehekin River has roared down this valley forever and will continue to do so. Thus, there is an opportunity now to let the river have its course, move the road to higher ground for us humans to use and let mother nature have her way. The road is very important to the valley residents as well as to visitors who come here. It is the ONLY road going thru the valley from the landing at the north end of Lake Chelan to Cottonwood Camp for a total of 23 miles. We are asking for your support on this House Resolution 3408. Sincerely,
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