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May 16, 2008

The Fight in the Forest

Near the sleepy little Snohomish County town of Index, a quiet war is being waged to save an old-growth forest from the fate of a logging company’s buzz saw. W.B. Foresters of Stanwood owns 130 acres of forest on Heybrook Ridge, just south of Index. The company wants to log mature alders from the land, but Index residents say it will destroy their scenic view, lower their property values, and make the town more vulnerable to severe flooding. So the town, founded by loggers and miners, is now battling the industry that put it on the map. Believe it or not, the logging company has agreed to sell it to the community group “Friends of Heybrook Ridge” -- if they can raise $1.3 million. Just when it seemed like an impossible dream, the group received a $500,000 donation from an anonymous donor. But they still need another $800,000 to buy the land, on which they plan to create hiking trails and educational facilities. Can this grassroots group save the tree roots? Or will the majestic alders fall victim to the logger’s axe?

Produced by Jenny Cunningham

Greenwatch

Recycling just got easier, but you may see your garbage bill increase as a result. This time next year, residents will be able to toss meat and dairy scraps into yard-waste containers and quit separating recyclable materials. Seattle City Council President Richard Conlin joins us to discuss the council's new Zero Waste Strategy.

Viewer Feedback -- The Democratic Race

Viewers sound off about the latest news in the race for president. Plus, results of our exclusive online poll about whether Senator Clinton should step aside.

Roundtable

Enrique Cerna is joined by Democratic strategist Cathy Allen, Republican strategist Randy Pepple, and radio host Dave Ross for a lively discussion of the week's news and events.

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Seattle P-I
The Floyd and Delores Jones Foundation
PCC Natural Market