ROANOKE TIMES 
                      Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times

DATE: Friday, August 16, 1996                TAG: 9608160018
SECTION: EDITORIAL                PAGE: A-11 EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: LIZA FIELD

GOD'S GIFT MILL MOUNTAIN DOESN'T NEED 'IMPROVEMENTS' OF MAN

THAT MILL Mountain is again a target for commercial enterprise doesn't amaze me. It's more amazing that the mountain has remained such an island of unspoiled natural beauty within a city. We live in an age in which nearly all unspoiled remnants of wilderness are under siege; how much more so, one would expect, an old quiet mountain within a sprawling basin of traffic, strip malls and uncontrolled development?

The mountain has thus far escaped some alarming ideas for its "enhancement." But until some wise urban planner designates this land a legal conservation easement, it will remain vulnerable to every passing whim thought up by every passing politician wanting his name connected with an ancient natural monument. Indeed, I had thought Mr. Fishburn left the mountain as a park for the very reason that it was a beautiful gift of God to be enjoyed by all.

Just a few years ago, consultants found that Roanokers wanted a natural mountain, not a Gatlinburg, not a See-Rock-City, not a parking garage and revolving restaurant and resort hotel, nor any other money-maker. Roanoke already is smothered in junk; perhaps it depressed citizens to think of invading this last island of nature with more of the same.

If the mayor is interested in satisfying tourists and bored individuals on the mountain, let us plan a series of footpaths, a few benches for contemplation among the oaks and hickories. Without concession stands, gift shops, rides and other glitz, perhaps those who are out-of-touch from too much city life might recognize the sacredness of the Virginia of long ago.

The mountain - with its beauty, solitude and unspoiled wildness - is Roanoke's greatest treasure. It is not something to rearrange, damage or clutter simply for a little divertissement.

Fifty years from now, refugees from cities around the world will be traveling long hours just to glimpse a bit of wilderness. At that time, we will certainly remember those leaders who decided the fate of Mill Mountain. Will we remember them, like Mr. Fishburn, with gratitude for protecting this legacy? Or will we think sadly of a sanctuary lost to greed, boredom and an appalling lack of awareness?

Liza Field lives in Wytheville.

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