Dear Mr. Judge,
I believe that the proposed changes in biomass
regulations are short-sighted and irresponsible. Burning forests pollutes the air with carbon dioxide
and particulate matter which has a negative effect on air quality and adds to
the causes of climate change.
The city of Springfield is already known to be an
incubator of asthma and other breathing disorders. Why would anyone want to exacerbate that, as
well as risk infiltrating the air of nearby towns?
On a broader scope, the rate of worldwide deforestation
has been increasing at a frightening rate.
Yes, forests can be replanted, but it will take decades for them to
achieve the carbon sequestration rate of healthy mature forests that already
exist.
I also feel today’s deadline date for comments is
arbitrary and designed to limit people’s ability to respond. I encourage you to
extend the deadline to at least the end of the month.
Thank you for your attention.
Respectfully,
Barbara Craddock
Town of Wendell, MA