Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

Mr. Gibbons. Senator McClure, Congressman Craig, I believe we should retain at least 4 million acres as roadless country. That should especially include the endangered idaho wilderness core which includes some of the most scenic areas in the lower 48 States, and habitat most critical for maintaining wildlife popula tion. I also strongly oppose hard release language, since no one can so clearly foresee the future needs of the United States. As can easily be seen, when the logging industry has exhausted the timber possibilities of an area, the Forest Service closed the roads so that the area is not accessible by vehicle anyway. The streams are degraded by soil erosion and wildlife habitat is de stroyed. But if the scenic hunting or fishing potential of an area has not been degraded by logging, then hunters, backpackers and tourists will come from far away to enjoy the attractions. Thank you.