Ever Onward Podcast: Why Public Lands Matter to Idaho

Idaho’s public lands are central to the state’s identity, economy, outdoor lifestyle, and future. In this episode of the Ever Onward Podcast, Tommy Ahlquist sits down with Nick Fasciano, Executive Director of the Idaho Wildlife Federation, and Dan Waugh, Executive Director of the Idaho Recreation Council, for a timely conversation about the importance of public lands in Idaho.

With more than 60% of Idaho made up of public land, this conversation impacts nearly everyone who lives, works, hunts, fishes, hikes, rides, camps, floats, snowmobiles, or recreates in the state. Tommy, Nick, and Dan discuss why keeping public lands public matters, the recent national debate around selling federal public lands, and how Idaho can better manage access, recreation, conservation, wildlife, forests, wildfire risk, and rural county impacts.

The episode also explores Idaho’s outdoor recreation economy, the role of hunters and anglers in conservation, the importance of fishing and wildlife management, the challenges facing Forest Service and BLM lands, and how motorized and non-motorized users can work together to protect Idaho’s outdoor heritage.

Watch the episode here: Why Public Lands Matter to Idaho with Nick Fasciano & Dan Waugh | Ever Onward - Ep. 122

Listen to the episode here: Buzzsprout - Ever Onward - Ep. 122