Audience Supports Scotchmans Wilderness at Thompson Falls Chamber Meeting

Adventure and Solitude Await a Hiker in the Scotchmans

A room full of hands signaled support for the Scotchman wilderness, after a presentation to the Thompson Falls Chamber of Commerce on December 18th. No one signaled opposition to the project. Two people abstained and commented they wanted to learn more about the proposal.

Presenter Doug Ferrell reported the group asked a lot of questions and engaged in a wide ranging discussion of forest management issues. Ferrell’s presentation stressed how the FSPW is working hard to help replace conflict over natural resource issues with a spirit of cooperation. Many conservationists are building successful alliances with the timber industry and other groups, based on the common sense idea that we can accomplish more positive outcomes by working together.

In the past, a few Chamber leaders have been reluctant to provide official support for the Friends of Scotchman Peaks, but Ferrell is hopefull that the continuing strong support from many members will eventually result in a formal endorsement.

Several members commented that the Chamber should be eager to support a local project like this. They stated that the Chamber has a role to promote and demonstrate how attractive our area is, and to help protect our area’s beauty, recreational opportunities, wildlife habitat and natural appeal.

Phil Hough About The Author:

Phil Hough is the Executive Director of the Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness.

An avid long distance hiker, Phil’s experience on the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail and Continental Divide Trails brought a passion for wild places and motivated him to work towards protecting the one of the last and largest wild places in northern Idaho and Western Montana, the Scotchman Peaks.