Mixed use is a great solution that also preserves the character of town centers.

> We can definitely house folks without compromising VT’s forests so long as we densify and use land that has already been developed upon.

actually there's good lumber in those forests which make incredible guitars, furniture and other products.

Vermont Maple and Walnut is by far the highest quality wood for musical instruments I have ever had the pleasure of working with. We also have other species that folks find ideal for instruments.

I am not saying cut down the forests, but I am saying that it wouldn't hurt to take down a few acres here and there to build up some more rural living areas or even carve out a good plot for infrastructure projects like broad band.