Each year, Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness (FSPW) gives graduating seniors from the high schools within the three counties the proposed wilderness lies in a chance to write about their favorite experience in the wild.

The best submission from each school in Sanders and Lincoln Counties in Montana and Bonner County in Idaho wins a $300 prize that can be spent on whatever the student wishes, although it is the hope of FSPW that they will use it to further their education. The best essay overall earns another $300.

This year’s winner from Sanders County were Phalyn Sweeney of Noxon and Kelly Butts-Spirito from Thompson Falls High. Phalyn and Kelly received $300 each.

FSPW has been giving local seniors scholarships for ten years.