Clear cutting also utilizes chemicals

To the Editor:

The destruction of Tennessee’s once-vast forests of oak and hickory has spread to the Cumberland Mountains of Warren, Van Buren and surrounding counties. I realize the paper industry is creating huge pine plantations to provide the wood they need for the products we consumers need. However, we as residents of this area should be concerned with this industry’s use of chemical herbicides which are sprayed by aircraft over thousands of acres of our highlands.

The run-off from these chemicals could contaminate the streams and rivers in the farmlands downstream.

Currently there is legislation being considered to protect the health of citizens of our region. We should contact state Sen. Jerry Cooper and other representatives and tell them to support legislation that would control the unsafe use of chemical herbicides.
George S. Joslin
Joslin Lane
McMinnville