I haven't read those books.

Like you I also have an affinity for blue collar workers and it's clear that rural Oregon is suffering. I think a huge reason is automation. If you suddenly opened up the forests would that create a renaissance in Oakridge? How long can that be sustained? And then what?

Is there an argument that protecting the rivers and natural areas in the valley may also be in the long term interests of the residents and visitors?

You need a balance, but to get balance you need weight on each end.