Dear Wildlanders,
We have three important updates to share with you! First, an administrative law judge with the Department of the Interior has ruled that the placer mining claims filed on the North Fork Clearwater River “would substantially interfere with other substantial recreational and cultural uses.” Therefore, the claims have been denied!
We would like to thank all the individuals, including the Forest Service, for their time and efforts, in preventing these claims from proceeding. Read more.
Second, we are teaming up with the Palouse-Great Old Broads for Wilderness and going camping this weekend, June 28-30, on the N. Fork Clearwater. Perfect timing! Come join us at the Washington Creek Campground for some camping, hiking, and some summer relaxation. There is a $7 fee per night/per campsite. A carpool will be leaving the Safeway parking lot in Moscow at 9am this Friday morning. Bring personal gear and food. Call (208) 882-9755 for questions.
Third, the Forest Service has sent a letter to the Idaho Transportation Department stating that the agency “cannot support authorization” of a permit for a 644,000lb. megaload to travel through the Middle Fork Clearwater/Lochsa Wild & Scenic river corridor. This of course, follows Federal Judge B. Lynn Winmill’s February 2013 ruling that the agency, does indeed, have the authority to regulate over-legal equipment attempting to travel through the US 12 corridor. Please consider sending a note of thanks and support to the Forest Service.
Hope to see you on the N. Fork,
Brett & Gary