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Ever since I graduated from the University of Montana with a forestry degree, my life has been about trees. When it comes to cutting trees, I’ve learned just as much about what to do as I have about what not to do. One of the most important things my work has taught me not to do is to lose sight of the whole forest for the sake of the trees.

Forests are dynamic. Sure — they’re a source of wood for products that we all need for our homes, jobs, and way of life. They are also home to the game I’ve been hunting most of my life, and they provide drinking water for communities like ours. We all value our national forests for various reasons, and the Forest Service has a responsibility to balance these values.

After hundreds of public meetings and thousands of comments, the Idaho Panhandle National Forest adopted a new “Forest Plan” in 2015. I believe the Forest Plan strikes a balance between the multiple uses of the forest, including timber, grazing, recreation, wildlife, and wilderness. The Scotchman Peaks area was recommended as wilderness because a majority of our community felt that was the best use of that area. When I hiked up there a few years ago, I found myself in agreement.

At less than 14,000 acres, the entire area represents 0.5 percent of the 2.5 million-acre forest. The terrain is rocky, rugged and steep so there’s no commercially viable timber. More to the point, anyone who has been there can tell you that the place is special. as I looked out over Lake Pend Oreille from the top of the Scotchman Peaks, I knew that I valued this place exactly as it is today. Should future generations not be able to enjoy it, too?

Just like wood, wildlife habitat, and motorized recreation, wilderness is one of these many uses of the forest that most people value, including me. There is a place for each on our forests. Through transparent and inclusive processes like collaboration and public input, the forest plan has balanced those needs.

On May 15, Bonner County residents will have another opportunity to have their voices heard. The primary ballot is going to ask us once again if we are in favor of Idaho Sen. James Risch’s proposal for wilderness in the Scotchman Peaks. On that day, please join me by voting “in favor” to create a permanent legacy for our future generations.

BOB BOEH

Idaho Forest Group

Sandpoint