Forest supervisors oppose mega-loads

Supervisors of the Clearwater and Lolo national forests say they're concerned allowing oversized loads of oil processing equipment to travel from Lewiston into Montana could set a precedent that transforms the scenic highway into an industry byway. Clearwater supervisor Rick Brazell and Lolo supervisor Deborah Austin each wrote letters to the Departments of Transportation in both states. The Lewiston Tribune reports both are concerned that the slow-moving loads which will cause periodic road closures could hamper public access to the forest, pose safety hazards, alter natural views and disturb campers. Both Brazell and Austin acknowledge that they have little authority to prevent the shipments, but asked the state agencies to consider the long-term effects of permitting the loads. AP