The Alaska Daily Empire

THE FORESTRY BUREAU IN ALASKA.

While we are without knowledge qualifying us to discuss the merits or demerits of the attacks of Western Senators on the Forestry Bureau, and while we agree with the principle often urged by these Senators and others that the natural resources owned by the Federal Government ought to be given to the separate States in which they lie, it is with knowledge and pleasure that we declare that the Forestry Bureau, with fine efficiency and commendable public spirit, is endeavoring to carry on in Alaska with an eye single to the general welfare. The officials of that organization up here have very clear concepts of the necessity of development in Alaska and very practical ideas of what is necessary to induce development. And, what is equally important, the local officials are receiving unflinching support from the higher officials at Washington.

That was a deserved tribute Mr. Thane paid to the Forestry Bureau when he said if Juneau does not get pulp and paper mills at an early date no fault will attach to the Forestry Bureau or the Government. The Bureau recognizes in full measure the responsibilities of the Federal Government as the largest land owner in Southeastern Alaska and its own responsibilities as custodian and manager for the Government of the lands and their resources. It recognizes that among these responsibilities is the obligation to the people of the Territory that resources be utilized and thus bring more people and greater business activity and opportunity to the Territory.