"Shock and awe" took on new meaning when I read about some of the roadless areas to be included in the state version overturning the Clinton era protections. While I am not familiar with many of the areas listed under the 'general forest' category, one local area listed took my breath away.
The southern Pioneer Mountains area is a place my family holds as sacred and as truly one of the many hearts of Idaho. Until recently, it was not only roadless due to some road reclamations, but it was also a quiet place without the sounds of ATVs. Fortunately, though ATV's are not completely restricted as would be my preference, at least hunting with them is prohibited. This allows a quiet environment in which the hardy, using the quads (i.e. quadriceps muscles) with which they were born, have the opportunity to explore wild, unforgiving backcountry for whatever their personal, spiritual or sporting pursuit. The views from the hard climbs are precious, far more so than the minerals which lie below.
It has been reported that this area is targeted for phosphate mining. This chemical is used for weapons and fertilizer.
These are the headwaters feeding the Little Wood River with springs, and the area has forests supporting a vast array of wildlife seasonally and year-round. It is a place where solitude and senses of freedom and peace can be experienced. It is a perfect place to preserve as a balance to all the developed places in our national forest. I do not know about other areas in the 2001 Roadless Rule, but this is one area that needs to be retained in as pristine a state as possible. I would be amenable if the roads would terminate at a parking lot at the national forest boundary.
I cannot believe anyone would not appreciate this area for its intrinsic value. To imagine this area opened for mining would be like seeing the homecoming queen burned with acid. If all the other "general forest" areas are near the gem quality as this southern Pioneer Mountains location, then we are losing a mother lode of Idaho jewels.
Lt. Gov. Jim Risch stated, "This was an Idaho rule. It was done by Idaho people." I am certain he did not consult with anyone who has ever spent time in this area who did not have a commercial interest. This place is precious.
The government should remove this area from the Idaho Rule and provide it with as much protection as possible.
John Vladimiroff
Hailey
