As appeared in the March 7, 2018, Bonner County Daily Bee and March 15, 2018, Sandpoint Reader.
Support Idaho’s future by voting ‘in favor’ of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness
As a Bonner County Commissioner I saw a strong consensus among county residents that wilderness was the best use of this land. Support included not only outdoor enthusiasts, but also those representing economic interests such as the Idaho Forest Group. I received more positive support for this issue than any other during my term as Commissioner. As I recall, only a few negative comments came to me, and those were concerns about bringing more people into the area.
In March 2015, the Bonner County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution of support for Congressional legislation that would safeguard roughly 14,000 acres of the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, encompassing Scotchman Peak — 7,009 feet, the highest point in Bonner County. Sen. Risch and his staff supported this vision and in 2016, developed a Scotchman Peaks wilderness proposal that would provide permanent access to traditional Idaho uses like hiking, hunting, fishing, horseback riding, camping, trapping and berry picking. Sen. Risch also directed his staff to hold open houses around the county so that every single one of us could find out more about the legislation that could finally bring lasting protection to an area we all hold so dear.
Now, Bonner County voters have another chance to do their part to preserve the Scotchman Peaks. The current county commissioners have decided to put the question of support to the voters in the primary election on May 15. Voters will be asked this question: Do you favor Senator Jim Risch’s proposal for congressional designation of a 13,960 acre Scotchman Peaks Wilderness area in Bonner County?
Please join me in voting “In Favor” of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness.
Cary Kelly is an avid skier, outdoorsman and the former Chairman of the Board of Bonner County Commissioners.
To learn more, visit VoteForScotchmanPeaks.org
Thank you for your informative article! We will join you in voting YES for Scotchman’s Peaks.