Just when you think that nothing we tree-huggers and nature lovers (I count myself among them) do makes a difference, you realize that the laws and reforms that we force actually work. Like in the case of the bald eagle which, according to a story in today's Erie Times-News, has become so prolific that it will be taken off the endangered species list.

The articles says that "government biologists have counted nearly 10,000 mating pairs of bald eagles, including at least one pair in each of the 48 contiguous states, giving assurance that the bird's survival is no longer in jeopardy." The article goes on to say that there are at least 26 nesting pairs of Eagles right here in Erie and Crawford counties, including one couple at our own Presque Isle State Park.

10,000 mating pairs today from a population low of 417 in 1963! That's just amazing and it's proof that sometimes government involvement is a good thing.

(AP photo/Ted S. Warren)