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This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Beetle mania in the forest

If you don’t want your family exposed to the likely cancer-causing pesticide Carbaryl, then don’t go camping in southwest Montana.

The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest is proposing to spray the toxic pesticide Carbaryl “in and around” 42 campgrounds and five picnic areas.

Why are they doing this? They claim the treatment is needed “to protect trees at developed sites from bark beetle attacks.”

The forest supervisor never bothered to ask the public if they would rather see a dead tree or watch their child die of cancer.

If you feel uncomfortable having your child eat a hot dog that dropped in the grass that might have Carbaryl residue, please contact the forest supervisor of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest to ask questions and express your opinions.

Dick Artley

Grangeville, Idaho

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