IDAHO FALLS — The Salmon-Challis National Forest is reaching the halfway point in the four-year process of developing a new forest management plan.
The Post Register reports the work has some stakeholders digging in their heels and others seeking common ground. The plan covers ecosystems, watersheds, plant and animal communities, grazing, resource extraction, rivers and wilderness areas. Salmon-Challis Forest Supervisor Charles Mark says there are 3 million acres that could potentially be considered for wilderness area designation, though not all of it will be included in a wilderness recommendation to Congress.
A wilderness designation would mean restrictions including rules barring motorized or mechanized travel, the use of chain saws, permanent shelters, roads and mining.
