The Economic Value of Quiet Recreation on BLM Lands

A newly released study that looks at the economic value of quiet recreation on BLM lands found that in Idaho alone, there were 3.9 million visits to the state’s 11.9 million acres of BLM lands in 2014 to enjoy nonmotorized outdoor opportunities.

Protecting Open Space in the Boise Foothills

Does landing a small private aircraft in the lower Boise foothills push the envelope on the balance of appropriate use? ICL thinks so.

How to Kill Goodwill-the Cautionary Tale of Clagstone

When a major landowner and business offers to do a good thing, it’s probably not a good idea to poke a stick in their eye.

Homeward Bound

In a mad dash for the door, the Idaho Legislature sounded like an auction house this week. To finish work for the year, both the House and Senate suspended their rules to expedite must-pass funding bills. Other legislation, including several bills of interest to ICL, died on the vine and at least one should be considered for a veto.

All Idahoans Must Continue to Benefit from Clean Drinking Water, Healthy Rivers

This guest opinion by our water associate Marie Kellner was published in the Idaho Statesman today, Mar 24, 2016.

Good News on Coal Front

Arch Coal announced last week that it would no longer seek a permit for the Otter Creek Mine, which was the largest proposed coal mine in the country.

Trails Vital to Bonner County Life and Economy

Two studies underscore how integral trails are to daily life in Bonner County and support the development of a more interconnected trail system.

What’s up with the Rock Creek Mine?

First proposed in the late 1980s, the Rock Creek Mine has been a hot topic in the greater Sandpoint community. A supplemental environmental impact statement is now out for public review-and we have concerns.

Mounting Piles…

We’ve faced our share of challenges this session, and I thought the worst of it was over. How wrong I was! The target date for adjournment, Mar 17, came and went. But the Legislature still has a mounting pile of bills, resolutions and spending measures to consider before heading home.

Seeking Guardians of the Wild Places

The Boulder-White Clouds have been protected as wilderness, but our work here is not done. This summer, ICL is partnering with the U.S. Forest Service to create a wilderness stewardship program. It’s your chance to get involved!