Idaho Wilderness Hearings

Statement:

Ms. Barclay. My name is Pat Barclay. I'm here on behalf of Congressman Craig to participate in the Idaho wilderness hearings and listen to the citizens of Idaho speak out on the wilderness issue for Idaho. Idaho now has 3.8 million acres of congressionally designated wilderness—more than any other State except Alaska. Idaho also has the most extensive wilderness system and wild and scenic rivers in the United States, encompassing 501.3 miles, along with two national recreation areas totaling 1,416,000 acres. This speaks very highly of our State's ability to provide a wilderness experience for its citizens. Wilderness is one part of the whole concept of multiple use of our natural resources. Wilderness is a resource. Tourism is a growing industry in the State. It is approximately the third largest industry in Idaho. However, the visitation to wilderness areas is only 7 percent of the growing tourism industry. The bulk of our tourism industry revolves around access to areas having transportation facilities, housing accommodations, and easy accessibility. Another resource which needs to be discussed—considered when discussing the issue of wilderness is our children. As parents, we Idahoans strive to insure that our children receive a good education and have equal opportunity to obtain employment. Future jobs for our children must be a consideration as we discuss the disposition of the public lands in Idaho. Will our young have the opportunity to seek employment in our State, or will they have to leave and find jobs elsewhere? Idaho's children are a resource too valuable for Idaho to lose. The future of our children makes the decision about the wise and balanced use of our natural resources one of the most important that will be made. The process of evaluating the uses to which Idaho's lands may be put has gone on for years. Even before the first roadless area and review evaluation process started in 1970, wise use of Idaho's natural resources was studied and debated. Continuing indecision and confusion can only serve to erode our economic base and waste taxpayers' dollars. The management of public lands is a question which deserves an answer. Our future as Idahoans hinges on the decision which could be made affecting our public lands. More is at stake than simply protecting or developing an area. Idaho's future is at stake. Thank you.