Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

Mr. Hazelwood. Senator McClure and Senator Symms, thank you for the opportunity to voice my opinion on the Idaho lands use question. At the present time, there is plenty of recreational land in Idaho as well as plenty of natural resources for development. Therefore, I believe our concern today should be geared more toward 200 years from now, rather than the next 20 years. In 200 years from now, oil and wood would no longer be used as we will be able to use synthetics. The recreational activities in nat ural areas will be needed more than ever. As an example of in creased use of primitive areas, it is now a privilege to win a permit on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. If we maintain this river in its present state, do you feel that there will be pressure to float the Middle Fork 200 years from now? There will be great pressure on our population also during the next 200 years. America is the last bastion of free enterprise and people from all over the world will continue to come to America. In speaking of free enterprise, the economics of preserving wilderness areas with the accompanying tourist industry will have great returns to Idahoans of the future. I request that we increase our wilderness by including the White Clouds, Great Burn, Kelly Creek, Mallard-Larkins, Selkirk Crest as wilderness areas. Thank you. 484