It’s no surprise that disputes over land use in central Idaho have gone unresolved for decades.  This is a complex issue, involving those who depend on this land for their livelihoods and those who know the value of preserving it for future generations.  The reality is that complex issues don’t always have simple solutions, and such is the case with CIEDRA. 

CIEDRA is not a perfect bill.  It requires each side to give a bit in order to find an answer.  But Idahoans have decided that the gridlock and uncertainty of the status quo is no longer acceptable and have come together to find a solution that ultimately resolves the long-standing conflicts for all stakeholders.  From the start, I have said that those who live and recreate in an area should have a say in the management decisions made there.  I am proud that CIEDRA balances the needs of all those who live near and use the Boulder-White Clouds.

CIEDRA permanently releases 130,000 acres of wilderness study areas from restrictive management into traditional multiple use, allowing mining, ranching, and recreation in areas where it is currently not allowed.  By designating three new wilderness areas, it frees those who live and recreate there from the uncertainty of administrative management changes or the possibility that President Obama could further restrict access by unilaterally designating this area as a national monument.

CIEDRA provides a solution for ranching families who are on the verge of losing their livelihoods by making them eligible for compensation from private sources, should they voluntarily retire grazing permits.

CIEDRA gives Custer County, which is nearly 97% public land, needed assistance for economic development and community services and ensures that communities are better prepared to meet the needs of those who live and visit there.

CIEDRA locks in use of the Germania corridor now and into the future and maintains access to many of the best high elevation snowmobile areas while protecting a pristine, wild landscape for future generations.

Some folks would have you believe that CIEDRA isn’t necessary—or that it doesn’t go far enough to protect this land—but most Idahoans know that the best response to a problem is to find a solution.  After years of collaboration and compromise, I know that CIEDRA is that solution, and I hope we take hold of the opportunity to control our own destiny by rallying around it.