Wilderness Shuffle Delayed By Chief

Forest Service Chief Jack Ward Thomas has delayed for another year any reorganization of the management of central Idaho’s 2.3 million-acre Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness.

“Although I believe this organizational change to be a sound proposal, … before moving forward I want to ensure the Forest Service works more with the Idaho congressional delegation and public to be sure all concerns are addressed effectively,” he said.

The proposal would consolidate the wilderness area into one management unit that officials say would provide better accountability, lower costs and improved service for those using the backcountry.

The wilderness is comprised of land in the Nez Perce, Payette and Salmon-Challis national forests, and each manages its portion under its own different plan.