As someone who has been attending the meetings I can say that one of the big issues being addressed is the misconception about logging. Some of the trees had to be taken down due to exotic insect infestation. The infested trees were removed to prevent the whole area being from losing trees.
Another thing is that we are trying to find a way to work with locals so they won't get so angry at birders. Some feel that it's a huge invasion of privacy having people stop in front of their homes with scopes and cameras to look at their bird feeders. Though the law may be on the birder's side in this, it's not necessarily the neighborly thing to do. So far things are moving in a very positive direction and I am excited for the birding potential that will grow in this area. Sharon Stiteler Minneapolis, MN www.birdchick.com
