January 5, 2005

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Black Hills National Forest

Phase II Amendment

PO Box 270990

Littleton, CO 80127


Dear Sir:


The Black Hills are one of the most unique areas in the world. Many species that live there exist nowhere else. Many Native American nations for thousands of years came to this place for ceremonial, health, and other purposes. I strongly encourage you in your development of management plans for this special place to include:


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      increasing protection of sites sacred to American Indian people, their burial sites, and other traditional cultural properties;
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      increasing protection for all ancient or old growth trees;
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      increasing protection of rare and imperiled wildlife, fish, and plants;
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      increasing protection of all wildlife habitat areas;
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      increasing the designation of Research Natural Areas; and
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      the designation of a bison research study area in the Jasper Fire Area.


The Black Hills are a very special place, an ecological gem that needs to be protected for the future. As a "National Forest", there is a responsibility to the whole nation. As a sacred place to Native American people, the Black Hills need to be treated with the respect a holy place deserves. The Forest Service is charged with these obligations and must fulfill these requirements.


Sincerely,




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