Letters to the Editor for August 7, 2012

Land being decimated by clear-cutting I had never been to the Northwest until I moved here 12 years ago. I knew it rained but I also knew it to be a very beautiful place and assumed we would buy a house on a decent-sized lot, with decent-sized trees, and that our windows would be a decent distance from our neighbor's windows. What a naive assumption. It was not only surprising, but very disappointing to discover that homes are typically built very close together in subdivisions which more often than not, used to be forested lands that are completely clear cut. I was dumbstruck by this and thought, how can this be allowed? I've seen many subdivisions constructed in this manner over the last 12 years and each time it happens I continue to feel a pang of sadness and frustration at this irresponsible development. A few years ago before the downturn of the economy, "Hidden Leaf" subdivision on McIntosh Road began. It was touted as a "green" development. The forested area was clear cut so that all the leaves were literally "hidden" and it sat like that for a few years. Presently, they have clear cut the far end of the subdivision and are now adding, or should I say cramming, seven more homes into the neighborhood. I have to say the development that is really upsetting me lately is the Summit at Columbia Vista across from Klickitat Street. The first phase is nearly complete and, once again it sits on what once was forested land that was completely clear cut. The second phase flows into Thomas Estates and that forested land has been decimated. The next time you're near this development take a good look at what's left and note the reaction it stirs up in you. Every time I catch a glimpse of that devastation I ask, why? I know I am not alone in how I feel about the development of Camas. I've had many conversations with people who feel the same way. Although, admittedly, my initial assumption about housing development in the Northwest was apparently naive, I know I am not alone in my shock that irresponsible development is permitted. I am hoping whoever the "Powers that be" are who dictate development codes can respond to this in the Post-Record and explain to the public why the aforementioned approach to development is permitted. Madeline Lyne, Camas Proposed BPA line crosses northeast of Lacamas Lake The Bonneville Power Administration hosted a booth at Camas Days, allowing us to share information about the I-5 CorridorReinforcement Project with more than 250 people. We were particularly pleased that we were able to show where the proposed alternatives are in relation to peoples' homes, which was a popular subject. Many people also expressed concerns about a recent article that said one option would "cross Lacamas Lake." It's important to note that no segment options actually cross over the lake. Segment 50 is proposed to run about 500 meters northeast of Lacamas Lake. BPA appreciates being invited to community events where we can provide updates, listen to concerns and answer questions. BPA plans to identify a preferred alternative in the draft environmental impact statement we plan to release this fall. We will decide whether or where to build the line after we complete a final EIS and the BPA administrator issues a record of decision. Mark Korsness, BPA Project Manager

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