The article in the March 7 Whidbey News-Times, “Clearing the way,” is nothing short of ridiculous. First, what historic views are they talking about? It’s merely a pass, a wide opening to the sound that is clearly visible both through the trees, and from the approach to and on the bridge. So Vancouver sailed through it … there are no significant historic views to see such as settlement sites with a recorded history like Coupeville. Not even any of the trees are original growth.

I have lived here for 27 years, and I cross Deception Pass several times a day. It is beautiful as it is, and I feel that taking any more trees down will only deter from the view, not help it.

With a little thought, one can surmise that the trees in question have withstood over 80 years of severe winters, high winds and record rainfall. They are still standing, on very steep slopes. In my mind that means they have developed elaborate and deep root systems. Without the trees to support the hillsides, they could slide into the water.

I have also parked in the various areas and one can see the pass and surrounding hills through the trees with little problem. People drive here from all over the country to see the scenery. If they are too lazy to get out of their vehicle to get a better view, then maybe they really don’t care about it. We do!

A big part of the attraction to this area is the rustic, wooded and rugged country. The DOT has ruined that appearance on the approach to Oak Harbor, with the cutting of hundreds of trees, and miles of green underbrush, to widen small sections of Highway 20 and create a virtual speedway. The State Park has lost hundreds more during the last record windstorms. Please, let us not cut down any more trees.

William Simon

Oak Harbor