Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

Mr. Howe. Senator McClure, I'm Don Howe. I came to Bonners Ferry in 1914, and I've lived all my life in this area except for 10 years with the Soil Conservation Service and my Service time during World War II. I am a professional conservationist, and am so listed by the Soil Conservation Service. At present, I am a farmer and president of the Kootenai Valley Reclamation Association, which represents 30,000 acres of farm land in the Kootenai Valley. From the testimony already heard in the reduction in the sell program, if Long Canyon and adjacent areas are included in the wilderness, it is apparent that taxes on farm land will be raised, which we sincerely deplore. Therefore, I would suggest that the Selkirk Crest—and the Selkirk Crest has been under a joint State Forest Service management program since 1971. To date no complaints on management have been received, and it appears this plan is working. Therefore, I would suggest that the Selkirk Crest remain under the joint management plan and that the Long Canyon area be designated multiple use, and no further studies. I've made further observations from a recent tour of the area that lead me to these conclusions: The white pine, cedar, and spruce in Long Canyon are overmature and tops of white pine tress are dying, and some spruce trees are completely dead. This area of the creek has a deep, highly fertile soil. The highest and best use, in my opinion, would be the production of trees. Good management practices would result in opening up the heavy overhead canopy allowing the production of browse and young growth. The area is almost sterile for game production as is true under this type of canopy. Game at present is almost nonexistent. Forest management would greatly enhance the production of food for game, and increase the numbers of birds and large and small animals. Thank you. Senator.