I am a conservative tree hugger who is extremely distressed by what I see happening in Fayette County.

While most of us recognize the importance of the loss of the rain forest, we seem to be oblivious to the mass destruction of the land in our own community. Although it is happening all over the county, I am speaking in particular of the land on Ga. Highway 85, before and after the Kroger shopping center.

This is the time of year when birds, various animals and beneficial snakes are having offspring. They are vital for our quality of life, but we are casually destroying their homes and our future, as we level the land. Landscaping does not provide the same necessary habitat.

Why are we permitting clearing of more land for building more shopping centers when there are abandoned buildings available? The former Wal-Mart/Winn Dixie shopping center is almost empty, creating an eyesore. The land that shopping center is on was once a beautiful pecan orchard. Many of us fought to keep it that way, to no avail.

Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against any store in particular, but why shouldn't builders/developers/landlords of business properties be responsible for finding someone to move in before they are allowed to relocate? Why can't our community demand that there be no empty storefronts before any new ones are built?

At the very least, these present buildings should be torn down or remodeled for the new businesses. Empty buildings and parking lots that are not maintained are a blight on any community. If you want to see our future, drive through Riverdale or Buford Highway. Don't our elected officials care?

I believe God is the giver of all good things and that He expects us to be good stewards of whatever He gives. We are failing miserably in so many aspects of that responsibility. I fear the canary is not breathing well at all these days.

C. B. Livingston