Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

Ms. Wagahoff. Hi, my name is Penny Wagahoff. I am a recent graduate from the college of Idaho. I am here today to testify as a native Idahoan addressing the issue of proposed wilderness in Idaho. I believe wilderness is very important to Idaho and the country. I have traveled quite extensively throughout my life through the United States. I know that Idaho is very beautiful and unique. I acknowledge that one of the best experiences in anyone's life can be enjoyed within wilderness areas. These areas are so beauti ful and solemn compared to industry ladened towns and cities. I really enjoy backpacking. I just think it is beautiful up there in the wilderness. For the above-stated reasons, I fully endorse and support the en dangered Idaho wilderness core. These 10 areas will help to pre serve Idaho's beauty, wildlife, and natural heritage. I also support no hard release, but soft release language be used in the upcoming Senate bill. This I would like to endorse to insure open consideration of wilderness in the future. I would like to add that I am aware that lumber, oil, and mining are important industries to Idaho and Idahoans. However, I believe the 10 areas included in the Endangered Idaho Wilderness Core are a gracious compromose to Idaho. Thus giving both the industries adequate use of the land while at the same time preserving the land for the future through wilderness. Thank you.