In Crimora on Monday, Governor Terry McAuliffe announced investments in the state’s Department of Forestry amid protests over the proposed Atlantic Coast Pipeline.
Governor McAuliffe announced money for two programs in the Department of Forestry. One is designed to help replenish our forests’ timber supplies, and another to replace our outdated fire fighting equipment. It became evident during the Rocky Mount fire earlier this year, our outdated equipment was putting folks at risk.
In fact, Virginia is 50th in the nation when it comes to replenishing firefighting equipment. “We are putting our firefighters out there to protect us, our communities, our schools, but we are putting them out in equipment that could jeopardize their safety. That is just irresponsible,” said Governor Terry McAuliffe.
McAuliffe says replenishing our timber supplies is key to keeping us in the top few states for agricultural exports. As the Governor prepared a speech about giving more money to the Department of Forestry, protesters were lining up to get a message across. They say many folks who voted for McAuliffe feel lied to, because they say many of his actions don’t add up with what he said to get elected.
“He ran as a green guy who wanted solar, and wind energy, and within a few months he was standing beside Dominion for a fossil fuel, natural gas pipeline,” said Sharon Ponton, a pipeline protester. McAuliffe says it is all up to the federal government to decide whether or not the pipeline project happens or not.
From WHSV 3 News: https://www.whsv.com/content/news/Governor-McAuliffe-announces-big-money-for-needed-forestry-improvements-391664881.html