Parsons Captured Essence of Gnatcatcher Saga
Mr. Hewitt is inconsistent in his argument that listing of a species stops development or steals land “through regulatory terrorism.”
Let’s take the example of the desert tortoise.
The state of California is presently considering building a radioactive waste dump just west of Needles in tortoise habitat. Yes, the turtle is there. No, the turtle is not stopping the proposal (though it probably should be stopped for other reasons).
Hugh Hewitt is patently wrong in asserting that listing of a species prevents development of some kind in that area. On the other hand, Mr. Joel R. Reynolds is correct in asserting that “listing will simply ensure that development is compatible with proper maintenance, management and restoration of a species. . . .”
And by the way, talk about arguments bordered in green. Hewitt’s arguments seemed bordered in greenbacks--provided by developers.
Case closed, Mr. Hewitt.
CONNIE DARKENE, Los Angeles
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