Mission

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest was recently identified as one of the "10 most endangered national forests" in the nation. It is one of the most heavily-logged national forests in the Eastern region (which stretches from Minnesota to Maine). At the cutting rate employed over the last 10 years, every single log-able acre would be cut in 45 years. The harmful impacts of such extensive logging on waterways, habitat and related natural resources and conservation goals are significant. ELPC is working through federal courts to protect this treasured resource.

 

ELPC's Work to Protect the Northwoods Highlighted on Wisconsin Public Radio

September 25, 2007 - ELPC's work to protect the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest was the topic of discussion when Executive Director Howard Learner talked with Mitch Teich on Wisconsin Public Radio. To listen to the segment on WPR's "Lake Effect," click on the Learn More icon above.

 

Wisconsin's Northwoods are once again threatened

ELPC won three federal lawsuits in 2005 which required the U.S. Forest Service to reconsider their plans to cut thousands of acres of timber in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. In September 2006, the Forest Service released their "revised" plan to do the same exact thing! After trying unsuccessfully to negotiate with the Forest Service, ELPC filed administrative appeals in November challenging the re-approval of the timber sales.

 

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest (CNNF) is a very special place. CNNF covers approximately 1.5 million acres in the northern part of Wisconsin, including numerous rivers and more than 300 species of animals. The CNNF consists primarily of northern hardwood, mixed conifer, and aspen trees, along with numerous rivers, lakes and other waterways. Its habitat include several endangered and threatened species, such as the Northern goshawk, Red-shouldered hawk and American pine marten.

We need to restore ecological balance to this very special place in the Midwest. 

ELPC doesn’t want logging to stop—just to be more balanced with environmental considerations. In so doing, we can continue logging employment where it makes sense, while also preserving the outdoor environment for the growing tourism industry.

Learn more about ELPC's work to protect CNNF.

How you can help 

1. Write the Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service continues to claim that logging improves habitat for sensitive species. But fewer trees and more animals just doesn’t add up. Studies show that widespread logging of mature northern hardwoods and aspen has harmed populations of some threatened and endangered species in Wisconsin. 
Take Action

2. Sign-up for ELPC’s Forest Action email updates
Go to ELPC’s Online Action Center and select "Natural Places" to receive monthly updates on Chequemegon-Nicolet National Forest and how you can help.
Sign-Up

3.  Pass this information to a friend
Inform your friends and colleagues by passing on this important information about Wisconsin’s Northwoods.
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