Dear Wildlanders,
The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests has announced that the public comment deadline for the Forest Plan Revision has been extended until November 14. The University of Idaho Ecology & Conservation Biology Club is joining us on Thursday November 6 in the Fiske Room of the 1912 Center to host a public lands social to further educate people about the plan. Please read our analysis of the proposed action.
The Lewiston Tribune recently reported that Western Pacific Timber has sent draft legislation to members of the Idaho Congressional delegation in regard to the Upper Lochsa Land Exchange. Senator Jim Risch, who in December 2013 spearheaded a letter to the Forest Service requesting the agency to suspend the administrative process, is apparently “not ready to take a look at it.” We will continue to keep you updated.
We are relieved to report that HR 5204 Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Modernization Act was not included in a recently passed Congressional spending bill. The legislation would have given the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management authority to charge fees for simply accessing public lands they administer. Learn more about the Western Slope No Fee Coalition.
We want to thank the Moscow Food Co-Op for hosting our Big Wild Photo Exhibit in commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act. The exhibit closes on Wednesday October 8.
The Palouse-Great Old Broads for Wilderness are accepting submissions until October 13 for their Celebrating Wilderness Art Exhibit at the Third Street Gallery. Download the application.
FOC staff is excited to attend the National Wilderness Conference in Albuquerque, NM in mid-October. The 5-day event will feature trainings, workshops, exhibits, films, field trips and more. Learn more.
Lastly, circle your calendars on Saturday November 1 for our Annual Meeting & Gathering in the Great Room of the 1912 Center. This end-of-the-year-celebration will feature delicious food, refreshments, live music, silent auction, an awards ceremony and more. We hope you can join us!
Brett Haverstick, Education & Outreach Director