Idaho has more than 9.3 million acres of national forest roadless areas - more than any state except Alaska. This roadless backcountry is the heart of America's last intact forest ecosystem in the lower 48 states, and it's now endangered by the Bush administration's proposal to withdraw roadless protections from two-thirds of this precious land. Tell the Forest Service they should not open Idaho's roadless lands for mining, road building, logging, or oil and gas development.
Take Action Now!
The battle over Idaho's roadless lands is the first in the nation, so its outcome may well establish precedent for roadless area protections nationwide. Therefore, taking action now to help defend Idaho's roadless lands can make an enormous difference in the fate of roadless lands across America. Don't delay in voicing support for roadless protections today, and spread the word among your conservation-minded friends.
Remember, the roadless expanses of Idaho comprise the last place in the lower 48 where one can find a full complement of native plants, fish, and wildlife, from the smallest plant to the largest predator. Rolling back roadless protections will jeopardize this rare intact ecosystem. It will also irreversibly degrade countless recreation opportunities to enjoy the unspoiled, wild beauty.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, the proposed rule will result in only one-third (3.2 million acres) of Idaho's currently protected 9.3 million roadless acres being managed in a manner that retains "natural processes and roadless characteristics." This would leave vulnerable 6 million acres, an area roughly the size of Massachusetts, which would lose current protections.
These are your public lands at risk. Take action by telling the Forest Service they must maintain current roadless protections for all 9.3 million acres of Idaho's roadless lands.
