[DannyTN]

"There had been no previous systemic, park-wide scientific study to provide a benchmark for future recommendations for the Smokies before Wednesday's report, "

If there was no prior benchmark, how can they say the park is changing at all? Maybe it's getting better.

I'm all for supporting the park, but this sounds like junk science to me.

[HangnJudge]

I've lived in the area one way or another for 40 years
I've backpacked in the Smokies since '73
I'm a Republican and Conservative to the core
But
I've watched with regret the steady loss
of trees from the ridge lines of these noble
mountains and steady increase in standing dead wood
as the Tennessee Valley Ozone levels have
gradually raised, a funneling effect from
pollutants to our South and west.
It is a sad sight to watch.

[Techster]

I agree with your comment. Did anyone consider that "old" forest have a life cycle? Wonder what would happen if a long term forest management program had been implemented oh say 100 years ago. Probably be a lot of healthy trees instead of trees under stress. Big Yellowstone forest fire years ago proved to be natures way of reforesting.