PEAKS: Join the wilderness club

This letter is written in support of the proposed Scotchman Peaks Wilderness. There is strong community backing for designating the Scotchman Peaks area as wilderness by thousands of North Idaho residents along with the Idaho Forest Group, the Bonner County Commissioners and the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, just to name a few.

I believe this special area is deserving of wilderness protection. The views from the top of Scotchman Peak are spectacular. In addition, solitude is afforded in more secluded places surrounding the peak. I also believe we owe it to our children and grandchildren to preserve some of the outstanding places we enjoy today.

In addition to local residents, people from all over the Inland Northwest and beyond enjoy the area’s stunning trails and then visit local restaurants, bars, and businesses supporting the local economy. I remember an energizing hike up Scotchman Peak I had with a couple living outside Portland, Oregon. They enjoyed this area and have since returned several times to visit North Idaho. As for other potential uses of the area,

It is my understanding that there are no motorized trails, mineral resources, or valuable timber to be developed. Consequently, it seems like we and future generations only stand to benefit from preservation of the area. I trust our congressional representatives will do their part to honor the local desire to preserve the Scotchman Peaks.

ANDREW ASHMORE

Hayden