Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

Mr. Ellis. Senator, my name is Reuben Ellis. I'm a farmer from Boundary County. I'd like to discuss the value of the old-growth forest of Long Canyon. Old growth is sometimes regarded as nearly timber that is decreasing in value, a waste, and overmature. Well, the term 'overmature' applied to the forest in Long Canyon doesn't take into account the many values of old growth. Old growth provides very specific wildlife habitat, and stable, pur watershed. But allows for a unique and increasingly popular recreational experience. Even a fallen log in Long Canyon isn't truly wasted. Falling logs are vital in nurturing timber and replenishing the nutrients applied to the soil. Of course, the Forest Service considers old growth important, too. They have a mandate, I believe, to keep 10 percent of their lands in old growth. In fact, since the Forest Service hasn't finished survey ing the Bonners Ferry Ranger District for old growth, it's an open question whether they can stick to that 10 percent quota if Long The Forest Service defines old growth as trees of 160 years old and older, but looking at Long Canyon as just a bunch of 160-yearold trees, doesn't begin to touch the real significance of the place. In calling the forest of Long Canyon overmature, well, it's iust like saying that the acropolis would be an OK place if it weren t so old. There may always be trees coming up the second growth at the 160-year mark, but if Long Canyon goes multiple use we risk an original and untouched area that can^ be replaced. So, we need another term that goes beyond old-growth to describe Long Canyon. I suggest the term 'wilderness.' I urge you to recommend wilderness status for Long Canyon and the crest. Thank you.