Hikers enjoy the beauty of our country, and we range people are happy to share the wilderness with them, but they should get all of their facts straight! I have seen, firsthand their abuse and lack of concern and respect for our wilderness. The trash some of them leave there is far worse than cow pies, etc., left by the animals. If they think our streams and land are polluted by domestic animals only, what about the wildlife? The plastic bags, plastic water bottles, cans and toilet paper blowing in the breeze – plus a few more unpleasant articles – were left by humans, not livestock.

Ranchers do pay to use the range, but how much does the public pay to hike those beautiful trails? Nothing! Grazing lands and streams have survived the animals for more than 100 years, but I am not sure they can survive the human impact.

Cattle and sheep are people’s livelihood, so how about just walking around cow pies and quit complaining? I can find my way around them as I swat at the deer flies and mosquitoes that are not there because of the manure!

Have a great day and get a life!

Phyllis Ludwig

Bayfield