For next senator

The fact that New York's next junior U.S. senator will be appointed rather than elected has occasioned much speculation and discussion over who is best qualified and fitted to serve the state's interests.

New York Gov. David A. Paterson has the obligation and opportunity to choose a dynamic leader with the energy, intelligence and capability of representing New York's diverse constituency.

Northern New York has enjoyed a strong connection with its current U.S. senators. Both Charles E. Schumer and Hillary Rodham Clinton have taken pains to learn about the north country — its special qualities, needs, challenges and aspirations. And they have worked hard on our behalf.

If we had the chance to tell our next senator what he or she needs to know about Northern New York, Fort Drum would head the list. The post has been essential to the region's economy, but there is more to it than that. Northern New Yorkers take great pride in having the 10th Mountain Division as part of our community.

Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division play an integral part in the nation's defense. The civilian community is committed to maintaining the infrastructure and relationship needed to ensure that Drum is the best military training facility in America. We expect our next senator to understand the nation's defense needs and to work cooperatively with Congressman John M. McHugh and local leaders on behalf of the post and its families.

The dairy industry has long been the backbone of the local economy. For generations, Northern New York dairy farmers have produced high-quality milk. But it is a tough industry; farmers' prosperity depends on fair milk prices. Locally, we need more milk processing plants and opportunities to convert the raw material of local dairies into a variety of products. Our next senator must understand the economics of dairy farming and look for ways to help our hardworking farmers.

Water issues concerning Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River are important to us. When there was talk about widening the St. Lawrence Seaway to accommodate huge oceangoing vessels a few years ago, our senators stood with other representatives against the plans that would have compromised the river's environment, beauty and shoreline. Our newest senator must know about invasive species, water levels, Great Lakes issues and how to help bring closure to a new regulatory plan for the St. Lawrence River.

We have a close relationship with Canada and want to keep it that way. It is essential to maintain an open border between Northern New York and Canada, to ensure efficient border crossings for the sake of commerce, tourism and U.S.-Canadian friendship. Under the guise of national security, border police and border policies must not impede travel unnecessarily.

The state's next senator must understand this region's electrical power needs and the emerging challenges associated with alternative energy. Tourism and maintaining a clean environment are important to us, blessed as we are with an abundance of natural resources and scenic areas — eastern Lake Ontario, the Thousand Islands, Tug Hill and the Adirondacks.

As with other parts of upstate New York, economic development is essential. The next senator must help create a healthy atmosphere for investment in Northern New York so that our young people will find ample opportunity locally for generations to come.

In short, we expect our next senator to become familiar with Northern New York, to take an interest in helping this region we love reach its potential.