3 Takeaways from IWF’s Public Land Management Comments
In today’s busy world, time is a valuable resource. Not everyone has the extra minutes to read through long documents and submit comments regarding public land management.
To those who can relate, we’ve got good news! IWF staff works diligently to ensure that when important decisions are being made on public lands, a sportsman’s voice is ever-present.
IWF recently sat down and analyzed the new draft “Resource Management Plan”, or RMP, from the BLM’s Four Rivers Field Office and have condensed our comments into a few important takeaways.
But first, what the heck is an RMP and why should you care? RMPs help guide the BLM’s work and seek to answer questions like: What areas should be open to motorized access? What level of protection should a big game wintering range receive? These documents are the bible for the BLM’s management decisions and each RMP lasts for decades. The BLM will still be using this document to make decisions when your kids are adults, hunting behind their own bird dog or stalking a wiley mule deer across the sagebrush.
So, let’s break down the comments that IWF submitted to the Four Rivers Draft Resource Management Plan.
3 Takeaways:
IWF believes the BLM should incorporate the Bennett Hills Backcountry Conservation Area (BCA), totaling 85,930 acres, into the final plan. A BCA would ensure that over 85,000 acres were protected and enhanced for the big game like elk and deer that rely on the area. IWF knows that hunters value the area for it’s incredible scenery and exemplary hunting opportunities. We’re asking the BLM to keep the area a wildlife and hunters haven for generations to come.
IWF understands the desire for increased trails but strongly advocates for wildlife values in the foothills of Idaho’s largest urban area. The foothills of the Boise Front are extremely important wintering range for thousands upon thousands of deer. They are also a favorite recreation spot for many of Idaho’s bikers and hikers. IWF believes that the expansion of the Boise Front Special Recreation Management Area by 10,190 acres should not come at the expense of our big game herds.
This is part of a larger push on BLM lands across the West aiming to take away important protections to wildlife habitat. IWF believes strongly that proactive management of habitat for our big game herds, upland birds and a long list of other wildlife needs to be taken into consideration. This RMP, once finalized, will guide decisions for decades. With Idaho’s population steadily growing, there will be pressure on this landscape and the wildlife that use these lands over the next 20 years and beyond. Let’s ensure both of these are conserved for generations to come with sound management plans.
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