Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

Mr. Mackey. Thank you, Senator. Members of the delegation, being born and raised in Boundary County, I have had the opportunity to hike and explore the major drainages that make up the Selkirks. I am an avid outdoorsman and the quality of hunting, fishing, backpacking, and camping is one of the primary reasons I live in this area. Having hiked the entire length of Long Canyon recently and having flown the area on several occasions, I will limit my talk in regard to wildlife and recreation to Long Canyon. During the hike through Long Canyon, one of my concerns was the lack of wildlife and wildlife sign. This, of course, is due to the lack of forage caused by he closed forest canopy which prohibits sunlight from reaching the forest floor. Of course, we all know wildlife needs security cover, but they also need forage to survive. Opening up this forest cover would provide the necessary forage that whitetail, and mule deer, elk, black bear, and moose require. Certainly one of the big arguments is grizzly bear habitat and potential woodland caribou habitat. The more recent research results are indicating grizzly preference for berries and rodents found in clearcuts or around open areas caused by natural disturbances. Other recent research could show that caribou prefer stands that are more open than the closed forest cover found in Long Canyon. In both cases a wilderness designation would prevent the prescribed burning or logging which would enhance wildelife habitat so that this area would sustain a permanent population of many different species. In the other main drainages of the Selkirks that have been roaded and logged there is an abundance of elk, deer, bear, moose, and grouse. With minimum-impact roads and proper road closures there is no doubt in my mind that Long Canyon has potential to be a sportsmen's paradise. Thank you.