In response to letters to the editor (Herald, July 27, July 31 and Aug. 4), I just don’t understand how any adult could believe that cattle and sheep are hurting our forest. They have grazed for over 100 years, and we still have wonderful forests and plenty of grass for domestic and wildlife to partake of.

If we didn’t have livestock on the forest and Bureau of Land Management land, you would see a lot more forest fires from the dry grass undergrowth. The farmers and ranchers are the best stewards of the land and always have been. I don’t think those letter writers know where their food and clothing come from. All they seem to be thinking about is their recreation and pleasure!

They complain about stepping in poop from livestock. What about their own and your dogs? The next thing they would want if they get the livestock off the forest is better trails and port-a-potties. They would cost the U.S. Forest Service far more than the ranchers! The ranchers pay taxes, plus upkeep of water areas and fences plus they pay fees to run on forest and BLM land. That equates to far more than the $1.35 quoted and more than the government would get from recreation. All recreation does is cot the Forest Service money.

Some people need to be educated as to all the by-products that are made from our livestock. It is more than food and clothing! Common-sense people support keeping our open ranges and the ranchers who help feed and clothe the world.

Shirley Engler

Ignacio