Logging Dispute Over In Forest Near Blowing Rock

BLOWING ROCK, N.C. (AP) - A long debate over logging in a national forest near Blowing Rock has been resolved, with both sides saying they're happy. The Southern Environmental Law Center says the U.S. Forest Service has agreed to preserve one group of trees dating back 300 years or more, and to reduce other timber harvests across 100 acres of the Pisgah National Forest. District ranger John Crockett says the resolution will allow the forest service to meet its goals while addressing the concerns of residents and environmentalists. The dispute started six years ago, when the forest service announced plans to open a portion of the national forest known as the Globe area to logging.