Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

Ms. Sanders. My name is Linda Sanders. I was born and raised in this fine State of Idaho. I grew up in Kellogg, 35 miles east of 381 Coeur d’Alene. I've seen personally what exploitation of resources without regard to its environmental impact can do to an area. In the late 1800's, the hills around Kellogg-Wardner area were demuted for housing, mining, and wood products. Then as mining operations expanded, pollution from the smelter prevented natural regrowth of vegetation and trees. The mills immediately surrounding the area have been there for as long as I can recall. This may be the origin for my deep feelings for exploring environmentalism. My fist major point is that I endorse the Idaho Conservation League Wilderness Core. Also, I strongly oppose hard release language. I support the use of soft language—release language regarding the wilderness bill because furture generations have a right to consider these matters in the future. I believe it is selfish for us to think that we have the right to the final say so. Also, I support maximum wilderness for Idaho. I wish to emphasize three specific areas: Long Canyon, Selkirk Crest, and MallardLarkins. I have had the pleasure of backpacking into those areas this summer. The natural beauty of the pristine and forest in Long Canyon was breathtaking. I marveled at the green mountain country of the forest floor. It was natural and peaceful. I felt renewed and inspired. I don't want it to be destroyed or altered even slightly by road building and logging operations. I would like to have it remain in its natural state.