It is sad and frustrating to see Fred Huntress’ continuing objections to the necessary educational progress of Stanton Bird Club and Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary. These objections are also contrary to Mr. Huntress’ own forestry practice, which even has, on occasion, OK’d clear-cutting.

Thorncrag doesn’t have a safe parking area or a place where buses can pull off to avoid the busy traffic. Mr. Huntress also doesn’t note only six-tenths of 1 percent of the 310 acres would be cleared for parking, about two acres.

Thousands of volunteer hours have been donated from dozens of dedicated members of Thorncrag. Many years have gone into planning and many compromises have been made to achieve the best goals to “preserve God’s out of doors and the wildlife therein” to have safe year-round parking and a teaching area during the school year when the sanctuary is largely inaccessible during the winter months.

Thorncrag’s future is dependent on the education of our community and our children and our youth. We can’t sacrifice our goals and our vision of the forest for a few trees.

Stephen Drane, Auburn