Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today shared an Idaho perspective when Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell testified at the Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee regarding the FY2011 Forest Service Budget request.  Simpson is Ranking Member of the Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, which funds the Forest Service. 

During the hearing Simpson raised a number of concerns he has heard from his constituents, including opposition to a controversial proposal to raise fees on senior citizens and physically disabled citizens seeking recreational access to U.S. Forest Service lands.  “It’s no secret that the recession has had a considerable impact on these groups because of high health care costs and depleted retirement savings,” said Simpson. 

Simpson also provided an important local point of view when committee members questioned the Chief regarding reduced funding for roads on Forest Service lands.  “When you decide to decommission roads, Chief Tidwell, there really needs to be a good reason for making that decision and then it really needs to be explained to the public and they need an opportunity to be part of the process,” Simpson said.  “I often hear from Idahoans who are concerned that their access to public lands is suddenly limited without explanation.”

Simpson advocated for continued access to recreation on public lands, asking Chief Tidwell about how the Forest Service manages recreation on Recommended Wilderness Areas and securing a commitment from the Chief to look at ways to improve the permit process for outfitters and guides.  This was the second hearing on the President’s FY11 budget request held by the Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee.