Editor:
When it comes to summer field burning smoke, area residents are treated like second-class citizens.
The Department of Agriculture allows the heaviest burning on days with west-to-east wind conditions in order to avoid impacting more densely populated areas. By doing so, the Department of Agriculture seems to be saying that it is all right for east Linn County residents to breathe polluted air while it is not acceptable for Corvallis and Eugene residents to breathe polluted air. That logic doesn’t make sense.
Fortunately, Holley and Crawfordsville residents in District 11 can help make a difference in the upcoming election by supporting Phil Barnhart. Phil told me that he will work to address the field burning issue in the next legislative session. Meanwhile, Phil’s opponent told the Eugene Register-Guard that field burning smoke isn’t much of a problem. Phil’s opponent must be vacationing with lobbyists every summer rather than spending time in our area.
On an entirely different note, I encourage community members to visit the new Steelhead Strength and Fitness Center at 1295 Main St. if you haven’t visited already. The facility is outstanding. Thank you to Steelhead’s owners, employees and construction workers for making this happen. It’s a great addition to our downtown area.
Kevin Strong
Sweet Home