A couple of (state senators) have concerns that we're overly influenced by the forest industry, and that (that influence) causes us to do work that has findings in their favor.

I've talked to (Ringo) a couple of times. He's concerned with undue influence by the timber industry on the work that the college does. He's concerned with my personal political involvement, in regard to helping develop forest legislation.

It is absolutely appropriate to receive financial support from those who expect us to meet their needs if we hold to high standards of academic rigor, freedom and responsibility. But this does not mean any party ... can buy the results they want, whether it is the content of our courses, the findings of our research or the education and outreach we deliver.

We're not overly influenced by anybody. As a land grant university, we have an obligation to be relevant to everybody that's engaged in forest resources, to make sure that our education, research and outreach programs are relevant to their needs.

It is unfortunate when people prematurely draw policy implications from single studies before the scientific process has finished its job.

We are pleased that BLM has restored the funding. OSU has enjoyed a long and productive relationship with the bureau, and we look forward to working with them in the future to address important issues regarding forestry and other land management issues.