I am a Hailey native who currently lives in Deerfield near the entrance to Radio Tower Hill, where I hike almost every day. I am not the only one thankful to the owners for letting the public use their land—each day I encounter people of all ages and fitness levels enjoying the trail.
I hear that there is some concern whether continuing to allow human activity on Radio Tower Hill will adversely affect wildlife. This is a valid question, as it is our duty to consider how our recreational activities impact other species and to do all in our power to protect wildlife habitat.
However, it would be a true shame if Radio Tower Hill, the entrance to a vast tract of wilderness that is more than adequate for an abundance of wildlife, were closed. And because this area is adjacent to a busy neighborhood, I'm unconvinced that closing one small portion would significantly affect wildlife either way.
The mountain also provides a sense of community that the subdivision of Deerfield might not otherwise have. It creates connections that cannot exist in a neighborhood where people spend all their time inside. It is also a place of solitary peace, a chance to breathe deeply of the fresh air, to indulge in a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the sagebrush. And hikers truly do treat the mountain with respect: not going beyond established paths, not allowing their pets to chase animals.
As someone lucky enough to have grown up here, I feel that trails like the one on Radio Tower Hill are an essential part of what makes the Wood River Valley such a wonderful and beautiful place to live. I value all wildlife but also believe that humans have a right to (responsibly) enjoy Idaho's natural bounty.
Jessica Polichetti
Hailey
