Mr. Jeff Wiegert
Supervising Forester
NYSDEC

Mrs. Lucie Townsend
498 Gypsy Trail Road
Carmel, New York 10512

November 2, 2003

Dear Mr. Wiegert,

For 38 years my family and I have enjoyed the peace and quiet of Gypsy Trail Road as well as the tranquil beauty of the surrounding area. Now, however, we understand that this idyllic way of life is about to end as a result of the proposed installation of a “Model Forest Program”.

As I’m sure you are aware, this project would change the Gypsy Trail are forever. Clear cutting and logging will entail the use of heavy trucks and equipment, which will be noisy, extremely disturbing to residents and animals and will result in a dangerous and unhealthy environment. Also, there would no doubt be many other undesirable aspects to the entire operation such as pollution from sediment, road debris, diesel oil and other contaminants deposited into our water system. Erosion and flooding would also be a very serious concern as would the displacement and possible forced evacuation of much area wild life.

I do not feel at this time that the DEC proposal has the support of the community and should be postponed until such time as there is a clearer understanding of how the benefits derived can out weigh the potential damage.

In the meantime please send me a copy of your proposed amendment and inform me also of future meetings.

Very Truly Yours,

LT
Kent

cc. Governor George E. Pataki