A non-binding memorial declaring the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness a “natural resources disaster area” in an attempt to spur the Forest Service and other federal authorities to do more work on damaged trails there has cleared the House on a 57-13, straight party-line vote, with all Democrats voting no and all Republicans voting yes. Rep. Mat Erpelding, D-Boise, a mountain guide, spoke against the measure, HJM 1, saying, “Declaring the Frank Church Wilderness a disaster zone is bad for business.”

Rep. Marc Gibbs, R-Grace, said, “We’re trying to make a point. …. We need some action there… so we thought that the harsh language was justifiable.” He said, “I think this is a good memorial to encourage some action in the Frank Church.”