Agency Seeks Input On Forest Maps

The Idaho Panhandle National Forests is soliciting suggestions from the public for making forest travel maps more user-friendly.

The Panhandle Forests publish seven maps covering 2.5 million acres from the Canadian border to St. Maries. The maps contain a variety of information on travel routes, campgrounds, trails, streams, landmarks, travel restrictions and big game management areas.

“But we’ve had a number of complaints that current versions are too confusing, especially concerning where, how and when travel is allowed,” said Bill Eaton, who is in charge of map revision. Part of that confusion results from the fact that certain travel methods are allowed only certain times of the year.

The Forest Service is not planning to change those restrictions. It seeks help making the information easier to discern.

The 1996 maps already are being printed. So this year’s suggestions will be incorporated into 1997 maps.

Suggestions should go to: Maps, Idaho Panhandle National Forests; 3815 Schreiber Way; Coeur d’Alene 83814. The deadline is Feb. 29. , DataTimes