Dear Jeff:

As a new [1+ year] resident of Kent, I was shocked to learn of the DEC proposal for a Model Forest Program on Mt. Nimham.

Last fall, I hiked precisely in the area involved, and was impressed with the beauty of the tall oaks. So much so, in fact, that I went online to learn how to plant acorns on my new property, which mainly has lesser quality trees. I spent several hours planting groups of three acorns. Of course, I do not expect to live to see the full stature of those oaks that I can help to survive squirrels and deer. But, if not my children, then someone else's children will begin to benefit, enjoying the grandeur of majestic oak trees.

Yet your proposal prescribes "burn" or "overstory removal" for 75% [79 out of 105 acres] of the labeled oak stands, and I fear the definition of "intermediate treatment" on the rest. I consider that absolutely unacceptable.

Sincerely,

MP