Guiding Principles
of a
Sustainable Multiple Use Alternative
- Necessary
The native plants and animals of the Three Forests require the provisions of the SMU Alternatives in order to be healthy.
That is, these provisions are not a "green dream." To the best of our scientific and ecological understanding, the plants and animals require these provisions and limits on human activities. - Reasonable
The SMU Alternatives are reasonable and feasible.
NEPA regulations require that "a full range of reasonable alternatives be considered." The SMU Alternatives will be mindful of Forest budgets, feasible for the Forest staff to accomplish, and feasible socially. - Clear, measurable Desired Conditions and Standards
The Objectives and Standards are clearly stated and measurable. Thus, compliance or non-compliance with them can be monitored by the public. - Scientifically accountable
The provisions are based on observed Forest conditions, and the best scientific understanding of responses of plants and animals to human activities and conditions. - Precautionary
The SMU Alternatives give health rather than harm the benefit of the doubt for the native plants and animals of these Forests.
These plants and animals are experiencing multiple stresses from human activities, reduced populations, and limited habitats. At the same time, little is known about their life histories and requirements. In the midst of uncertainty, the SMU Alternatives will give them the benefit of doubt. - Inclusive of human uses
The SMU Alternatives will provide for recreation and commercial activities that are compatible with maintaining ecological processes, redundancy (i.e., more than the number needed merely to survive), and evolutionary potential.