Left Flank

I guess this is an example of radical centrism. TMV's Patrick Edaburn takes «the hard line enviromental (sic) movement» to task for an unbalanced environmental approach, that «...is a deeper cause which allowed for the buildup of tons of fuel...» causing the 640-acre Trabing Fire in Larkin Valley, California earlier this month.

The dirty little secret that everyone wants to ignore is that another significant factor is the hard line enviromental movement. Just as they have contributed to higher energy and gas prices by fighting the building of any new refineries, they have also blocked reasonable efforts to protect against fires.

Talk about scapegoating! The San Jose Mercury News is a little more level-headed.

County planners say the last thing they want to do is put up roadblocks for homeowners, particularly when it comes to fire safety. But the Planning Department, which serves as the clearing house for all construction and tree-removal in the county, is obligated not only to the safety of residents but also to the enforcement of state and federal laws that safeguard such things as water quality, the stability of hillsides and endangered plants and animals.

«There's got to be a balance between environmental protections and allowing people to protect their houses,» said Planning Director Tom Burns.

It's that balance that has become the subject of recent debate, with critics contending the environment has too long taken precedence and hoping recent fires will tip the scale toward fire protection.

«Don't get me wrong, I love animals and plant species, but if we are going to allow for people to be in structures, we do need to provide for their safety and protection,» said Claire Machado, a local land-use consultant and Planning Department watchdog. «It's unfortunate it takes events like these to put the issue on the table.»

I don't want to sound like an enviro-radical (which I'm not), but isn't it at least an open question whether balance is possible after the construction of homes occurs, possibly ill-advisedly and excessively, in sensitive areas? Is it wise to assume any construction is just necessary?

Far be it from me to bring up the specter of over-population!

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