To the Editor:

Thank you for your excellent reporting on the consideration to a change in the development rules in Jackson County. The economy is not a reason for a change in the rules. Once a mountain is changed there is no reversal possible. In recent years there has been severe damage to the mountains of Western North Carolina. If anything, it has been too easy to decimate the mountains in exchange for big money. The recent heavy rains have identified some of the results of our irresponsible development.  

Unless we change our attitude toward the maintenance of these lands, future generations will pay the price for the damage. Your paper has made reference to a report by the forest service regarding our forests and water and how the changing land use will impact our future. It should be required reading by our land planners and government officials.  

Thomas Moore

Waynesville