Budget panel backs North Idaho conservation easement

BOISE – The Idaho Legislature’s joint budget committee voted overwhelmingly in favor Wednesday of funding for the Clagstone Meadows conservation easement in North Idaho, after Bonner County commissioners rescinded a March 11 letter two commissioners had signed saying they opposed the project and didn’t know about it.

The 13,000-acre conservation easement, which has been in the works for six years, would allow the property owner, Stimson Lumber, to continue to operate the property as timber land in perpetuity, but give up development rights; the site previously was approved for 1,200 homes and two golf courses. The easement also would guarantee public access for hunting, fishing, hiking and recreation.

The funding bill, which taps federal funds for the Forest Legacy Project, still needs passage in the House and Senate and the governor’s signature to become law.