Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness announces leadership transition
The Western News | The Western News | UPDATED 2 days, 19 hours AGO
Friends of Scotchman Peaks Executive Director Phil Hough and Deputy Executive Director Rose Olson hiking on East Fork Creek. Hough will soon retire from his post and Olson will take over the top role. (Photo courtesy Savannah Willison)
Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness is pleased to announce a significant leadership transition.
Rose Olson, current Deputy Executive Director, will step into the role of Executive Director following the retirement of longtime leader and co-founder Phil Hough in January 2026.
Under Phil’s steady and inspired guidance, FSPW has grown from a local grassroots advocacy group into a beloved community-rooted organization valued for stewardship, outdoor educational opportunities for school children, recreational leadership, and solutions-oriented wilderness advocacy based on inclusion and collaboration.
His political acumen and passion for preserving wild places have made him a respected leader across Idaho, Montana, and beyond, and his influence extends well beyond FSPW, the organization’s programs and culture have become a model for conservation groups nationwide.
“Phil’s legacy isn’t just about programs or milestones, it’s about people,” said Mark Cochran, Chair of the FSPW Board. “Thanks to his vision, and with Rose’s leadership, the dream of protecting the Scotchman Peaks as designated Wilderness is closer than ever.”
Phil has guided FSPW with integrity, optimism, and dedication for more than two decades. As he steps down, he looks forward to new adventures, including traveling widely and tackling many long hikes he’s dreamed of for years.
“This has never been just a job for me, this has been my life. I think it’s so important to care about what you do and have some passion for it,” said Phil Hough. “The Scotchmans deserve lasting protection, and I am confident Rose’s leadership will carry this vision forward.”
Rose joined FSPW in February 2023 and has quickly become a trusted and visionary leader. Rose grew up in northern Idaho and graduated from University of Idaho with a degree in Environmental Science. An avid outdoor explorer and recreationist, she knows firsthand how special Idaho’s wild places are.
Rose has deep roots in the community and also serves on the board of the Sandpoint Nordic Club, where she organizes the youth ski league. She brings calm strength, collaboration skills, deep knowledge of FSPW’s mission and genuine passion for wilderness. Rose has earned the trust of the staff, board, and partners, and is eager to build on FSPW’s strong legacy while engaging the next generation of wilderness advocates.
“I am humbled and excited to step into this role,” said Rose Olson. “Phil has built a great foundation of community and conservation. I look forward to working with our supporters to continue connecting people to our wild backyard, and hopefully to inspire some passion around the importance of protecting these special little pockets like the Scotchmans.”
As FSPW looks to the future, the organization’s mission remains clear. The dream that launched FSPW twenty years ago - the dream of permanently protecting the Scotchman Peaks as congressionally designated Wilderness - continues to serve as its guiding compass.
With gratitude for Phil’s visionary leadership and enthusiasm for Rose’s new chapter, Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness stands poised for a bright future dedicated to protecting wild places and nurturing the community that cares for them.