The Bear Palmer project proposed for the Jardine area north of Gardiner, the North Entrance to Yellowstone Park, received well over 500 comments. This “forest health project” includes more than 2000 acres of commercial logging with over 800 acres to be clear cut and approximately 17 miles of new and reconstructed roads in this area uniquely flanked by Yellowstone Park and the Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness.

The widespread response to the request for public input was inspiring. Many of these comments were impressively substantive and offered personal, heartfelt perspectives. I feel compelled to acknowledge the effort that so many folks put into formulating and submitting these comments, especially since the Forest Service will not be able to perform any formal administrative review or response due to the fast-tracked process by which the agency is proceeding.

Thanks to all who took the time to comment. For sharing your stories, opinions, questions, and your knowledge.

Maybe I owe Bear Palmer a thanks as well, backhanded as it may be, for all that I’ve learned and for strengthening the bond with my community and reinvigorating the connection I have with my backyard which extends throughout the landscape of the 4000-acre project and beyond into the adjacent Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness. For motivating me to notice and appreciate my surroundings in more vivid detail. The specter of Bear Palmer is a persistent reminder to not take how incredibly lucky I am for granted.

Yes, I am a NIMBY – I was raised here and have lived here now for many years. As grudgingly grateful as I somehow perhaps should be, the Bear Palmer project saddens and scares me. I am deeply worried about this threat that is lurking in my backyard. And I am dismayed by what we ALL stand to lose at Yellowstone’s front door.

Becky Johnson,

Gardiner