Supporters of the proposed federal “wilderness designation” for Scotchman Peak claim it as a must-have for preservation of its beauty. What would change without a declaration of wilderness designation? According to Friends of Scotchman Peak Director Phil Hough, nothing. Nor is there any evidence that it “could potentially be sold to developers,” as FSPW states on its website.

So this is a solution in search of a problem. Fortunately it was recognized as such by the following entities who have taken a stand against it:

- Clark Fork City Council, the community closest to the land, unanimously voted against it.

- The Idaho State Senate Natural Resources Committee unanimously voted against it.

- The Natural Resources Committee of the Idaho House of Representatives voted 15-2 against it.

- The full Idaho House and Senate voted against it.

- The last whereas of Idaho House Joint Memorial 14, signed March 14, 2018, reads, “Several years ago, advisory votes relating to a suggested new national monument designation and a wilderness designation in Idaho were held in a number of potentially affected counties in central and eastern Idaho, both showing over ninety percent opposition to such designations.”

- Further, the current plan of a wilderness designation is opposed by the following state and county Republican candidates: Heather Scott, Sage Dixon, Scott Herndon, Danielle Ahrens, Jim Woodward, Mike Boeck, Dan McDonald, and Steven Bradshaw.

Favoring it: County Commissioners Jeff Connolly and Glen Bailey. Both also ignored the county clerk’s recommendation to include the word “federal” in the advisory vote ballot language.

On May 15, your vote is the only one that counts.

ANITA PERRY

Sandpoint