With the summer heat intensifying, we’d like to bring you up to speed on some important wildland issues.
The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests have begun the scoping process for the Forest Plan Revision. A Forest Plan is a document that directs the way the forest is managed over a 10-20 year period. Public comments are due September 15. Download our Call to Action and read about some of our concerns.
A Call to Action: Plan Revisions for the Nez Perce and Clearwater National Forests.pdf
The Upper Lochsa Land Exchange is in the news again. Western Pacific Timber (WPT) has announced that unless the Idaho delegation crafts legislation, the company is interested in subdividing land that they own along US 12. The private land, which is part of the checkerboard landscape, is just east of the Powell Ranger Station. We contend that this represents a great opportunity to use money that has been already allocated to the agency from the Land & Water Conservation Fund ($1-million) to purchase these specific parcels.
To much disappointment, the US Fish & Wildlife Service has announced that they intend on withdrawing their proposal to list the wolverine under the Endangered Species Act. In a move that would override the agency’s own scientists, agency officials contend that there’s too much uncertainty and “speculation” about how a changing climate may impact snowfall and habitat for the species. A formal decision is expected August 4. FOC and allies will explore options once the announcement is made.
Speaking of native carnivores, FOC has joined Center for Biological Diversity, Western Watersheds Project, Wild Earth Guardians and the Western Environmental Law Center in a lawsuit aimed at protecting Canadian lynx from indiscriminate trapping and snaring in the state of Idaho. Because lynx are on the endangered species list, Idaho is required to formulate a conservation plan that works to minimize incidental trapping of the animal, as well as placing restrictions on traps/snares. Despite multiple requests from conservationists, the state has refused to produce one.
Circle your calendars for September 12-14 and join us for a region-wide celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act at the Wilderness Gateway Campground on the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. In conjunction with Wilderness Watch and the US Forest Service, the 3-day event will feature engaging speakers, a primitive tools demonstration, children’s activities, live music and food/drink. Learn more.
If you would like to purchase the commemorative 50th Anniversary Wilderness Act poster click here.
Stay cool and wild,
Brett Haverstick, Education & Outreach Director