Sandpoint ranger hiding important documents

The Sandpoint ranger is concealing vital documents. The Kaniksu Winter Over Snow Vehicle EA developed by a pro OSV use collaboration, poses a threat to endangered species, including Canada lynx, wolverine, grizzly bear, and whitebark pine.

OSV recreation took precedence over wildlife protection for the participating conservation groups. A flight by the Inland Empire Task Force and other groups, sponsored by Lighthawk, recorded trespass by OSV users in restricted areas last March, and we have photographs of damage to subalpine tree species. Due to a statistically invalid monitoring plan and the weak enforcement plan in the EA, ongoing harm is expected.

The Upper Pack River basin is now open to unrestricted snowmobile access during grizzly denning season, posing a threat to lynx and wolverine habitat, impacting valuable winter wildlife. Whitebark pine and subalpine larch will continue to be run over at the Roman Nose recreation area. 

The Idaho Panhandle National Forest has not posted maps, GIS data, specialist reports, wildlife assessments, or the BiOP on their SOPA site. Although not obligatory, this information is vital for evaluating decisions. This lack of transparency necessitated a FOIA request to obtain essential documents. Forest Supervisor Galloon and Sandpoint Ranger Berner, what is the Forest Service concealing?

PAUL SIERACKI

Priest River