Bad ideas die hard: The effort to hand over America’s public lands to individual states

We in the West know what state or private ownership means for forests. Stumps, and lots of them, writes guest columnist Craig Gehrke.

Deep in Idaho’s Clearwater Mountains, along the beautiful Lochsa River, is a stand of ancient cedar trees. These trees stand hundreds of feet tall and are hundreds of years old. They have seen a lot of American and Idaho history.

They were standing long before Europeans arrived in these mountains, back when the Nez Perce traveled through the Clearwater Mountains along what they called the Road to the Buffalo, the route they used to travel from their Idaho home to the buffalo hunting grounds in Montana. They were standing when explorers Lewis and Clark passed by less than mile away on their 1805-06 historic trek across North America to the Pacific Ocean. These trees were standing in 1877 when Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce were fleeing the U.S. Cavalry in their heartbreaking effort to reach the safety of Canada. Conservation historian Bernard DeVoto camped under these trees in the late 1940s while working on his editing of the Lewis and Clark journals. After DeVoto’s death, this grove of cedar trees was named the DeVoto Memorial Cedar Grove, and his ashes were spread on this site.

It’s no accident that these old cedar trees are still standing. They remain standing because they are on public lands. Public lands, in which every American has a stake. Surrounding forests, not on public lands, tell a far different story.

A few miles to east of the DeVoto Cedar Grove are lands that once belonged to a railroad company. In the 1860s, railroad companies were given vast tracks of lands in the West to facilitate settlement efforts and ease the way for possible cross country railroad routes. Only a few such routes panned out, so the railroads eventually sold much of their timber lands to private timber companies. These companies, out to maximize profits for shareholders, ravaged these forests, brutally logging these landscapes and leaving behind eroded hillsides, polluted streams, and miles and miles of stumps. Even today these denuded lands continue to dump sediment into the headwaters of the Lochsa River.

A few miles to the west of the DeVoto Cedar Grove are forest lands that ended up owned by another entity, this time the state of Idaho. Forests owned by the state are mandated to be managed to produce the maximum revenue for the school system. This means logging. Lots of logging. The state lands west of the DeVoto Cedar Grove are a jumbled maze of logging roads and clearcuts. Any old  trees once there are long gone.

Besides his work on the Lewis and Clark journals, Bernard DeVoto is best known for his conservation advocacy in Harpers Magazine in the 1940s. It was here that DeVoto blew the whistle on the efforts by the national livestock associations to turn all of America’s public lands over to individual states and eventually private ownership. DeVoto’s writing galvanized opposition that helped defeat that effort at that time.

But bad ideas die hard. There’s always remained smoldering efforts by private entities and the politicians in their pocket to somehow get their hands on public lands. The effort is back again. Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador a filed a friend of the court brief supporting Utah’s effort to dispose of public land to state ownership. While purportedly focused on lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, which provide unmatched wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities to all Americans, Utah’s lawsuit raises the question of whether the federal government can hold lands in perpetuity at all. If this effort were to succeed, you can bet the national forests would be next on the politician’s wish list.

Idaho sold off about one third of the land it received from the federal government upon statehood. Had Idaho gotten more land, it would have simply sold more of it. It has generally been a short step from state ownership to private ownership. And private ownership has meant, for stands of old forests like the DeVoto Grove on the Lochsa, a quick trip to the nearest sawmill and money in the owner’s pocket. Millions of acres of old growth forest, and the wildlife, clean water, and recreation opportunities supported by these forests, are gone forever by this route.

We in the West know what state or private ownership means for forests. Stumps, and lots of them. Both entities manage forests to maximize dollars generated. In contrast, public lands mean trees hundreds of years old, superb wildlife habitat, clear, clean water, and unmatched recreation opportunities. And our heritage. You would be hard pressed to find many areas owned by states or private corporations where short term monetary gains are sidelined for the sake of protecting a place of history like the DeVoto Cedar Grove.

What is the Recreation Fund Council?

The Idaho Outdoor Recreation Fund Advisory Council was created by Gov. Brad Little and the Idaho Legislature to recommend projects to expand outdoor recreation or access to it in Idaho. Examples could include expansion of recreational facilities (parks, trails, boating, etc.) or agreements to gain entry to new areas for public recreation.

The Legislature in early 2023 provided $5 million in initial funding for the council’s work. In the 2024 session, the Legislature provided a second, $5 million installment for distribution.

New Projects Needed

The Council recently solicited candidate projects for 2024, asking for applications for be submitted by September 30, 2024. Please send applications to Skylar Jeff, ORFAC coordinator, at skylarjett13@gmail.com.

Funding for this round of projects comes from the American Rescue Plan Act, which carries firm timelines for any funds to be obligated and spent. The Council seeks projects that can be under contract by the end of 2024 and completed before the end of 2026.

Gov. Little’s executive order creating the council targets “opportunities for camping, fishing, hunting, accessing trails and other outdoor pursuits” for potential projects. IDPR, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and the Idaho Department of Lands are charged to work cooperatively to propose projects, manage under-utilized resources and monetize outdoor recreation for long-term sustainability.

About the Council

Council members are:

• Tom Schultz, Council Chair
• Susan Buxton, Director, Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation
• Jim Fredericks, Director, Idaho Department of Fish and Game
• Dustin Miller, Director, Idaho Department of Lands
• James Petzke, Representative, Idaho Legislature, District 21, Seat A
• Gretchen Hyde, Director, Rangeland Resources Commission
• Mark Pratt, Idaho Cattle Association
• Kari Kostka, The Nature Conservancy
• Benn Brocksome, Idaho Sportsmen
• Dave Lent, Senator, Idaho Legislature, District 33
• Laurel Sayer, President, Perpetua Resources
• Sandra Mitchell, Idaho State Snowmobile Association
• Seth Griggs, Idaho Association of Counties

For more information about the Council and its work, contact ORFAC Coordinator Skylar Jett at skylarjett13@gmail.com or at 208-599-3264.

VISIT WEB PAGE FOR MORE INFO AND DOCUMENTS

Dr. Robin Knight lives in Nampa, ID with her spouse Dr. Pete Knox and two children. Dr. Knight attended undergrad and vet school at Colorado State University and completed a large animal internal medicine residency at Texas A&M. We are excited to have Dr. Knight here at IEH to partner with Dr. Jamie Higgins (board certified in internal medicine and emergency/critical care) to expand access to specialized medical care and consultation for all of our in-house veterinarians as well as referring veterinarians. The advanced training that Dr. Knight brings to the table as an internal medicine specialists is a huge asset to our practice and our patients well being. Dr. Knights interests include neonatal care, respiratory disease, neurological issues, gastrointestinal disease and all types of infectious disease. Dr. Knight will provide advice on testing, advanced diagnostic procedures, and treatment plans for a wide range of ailments that are not amenable to surgical correction.

Backcountry horsemen handout-September 2024

W784-A  (PDF)

Equines & Toxic Plants

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LINKS to Recordings

SAMPLE:

• Beyond Band-Aids: Unveiling Your Ultimate Wilderness Medical Arsenal: Thursday, June 6, 1:00-1:50 pm ET
  • Recording: https://youtu.be/1_FG0NA1XBY
  • Description:
    Essential Med Kit Items, Top 3 Must-Haves, Head-to-Toe Safety, Wildlife Wisdom, and Multi-Purpose Marvels for Trauma and Emergency Mastery
  • Presenter:
    • Connie Jacobs, Colorado Conservation Lands Program Lead, Bureau of Land Management
  • References:
    • First Aid Kits – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jf6y2g7Pmvo
    • Backpacking First Aid Kit – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NkdFtXyKodg
    • Doctors Explains First Aid Kits for Camping, Travel, & Hiking – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9P8eGiX5Y_0
    • Blister Care: Doctor Reveals Surprising Blister Prevention Techniques – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWSr90jpk3k
    • Common wilderness Injuries and prevention tips:
      https://www.elevatedtrips.com/blog/six-wilderness-injuries/
    • Improvising supplies for emergencies (lots of ads to skip, material is good):
      • Improvising First Aid: Addressing Wounds When Kits Aren’t Enough | Unified Survival – https://unifiedsurvival.com/improvising-first-aid-addressing-wounds-when-kits-arent-enough/
      • Useful First Aid Kit Tips & Hacks | First Aid Blog | Medical Gear Outfitters – https://medicalgearoutfitters.com/blogs/firstaid/how-to-first-aid-kit-tips-tricks-hacks
    • Safety Tips While traveling and in the back country:
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xH6aAqzczfA
    • Backpacking gear for beginners (budget items will get you by):
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-N-GJjywLA
    • Snakes:
      • How to deal with snakes on the trail (general, good info)
        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGpe6muQs8s
      • Discussion with an ER doc who specializes in snake bites:
        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gaq0WVtsKZE
      • Video above goes/pairs with video below.
        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gaq0WVtsKZE
        Disclaimer: Please note: at 2:15 Dr. Erickson misspoke and generally recommends placing the arm at the level of the heart (to manage local swelling but not encourage systemic absorption). That said, in settings where neurotoxicity from envenomation is likely (and local tissue swelling is of secondary concern), keeping the bite below the level of the heart may slow lymphatic venom absorption. See Dr. Erickson speak at the upcoming National CME Conference on Wilderness Medicine: https://wilderness-medicine.com/cme-conferences/santa-fe/
    • Consider putting your 1st Aid kit (and meals!) together with latex allergies in mind!
      • 8-17% of health care workers and Less than 1% of the general population in the U.S. (about 3 million people)
      • Statistics | American Latex Allergy Association – https://latexallergyresources.org/statistics
      • https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-treatments/allergies/anaphylaxis
    • Head to Toe Assessment Demo: NOLS Head to Toe Assessment – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXQAmx2AYIk

chapter-member-training-4-30-184-1 (PDF)

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2024-06-05 USFS National Saw program – FACTs Sheet

2024-07-09-ForestServiceNationalSawProgramUpdates

2024-07-09-ForestServiceNationalSawProgramUpdates

2024-06-05 USFS National Saw program – FACTs Sheet

Urine_Color_Chart

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Idaho has an abundance of hiking trails to explore during the summer months, but being prepared when exposed to wildlife and areas with no cell service will help you have a good time. Hiking in the Boise Foothills and beyond can be exciting but requires preparation before venturing into the wilderness. There are 12 snake species in Idaho, including the Western rattlesnake and prairie rattlesnake, Idaho’s two venomous snakes.

It’s possible you could end up in the Idaho wilderness without cell phone service and surrounded by potentially dangerous snakes. So what will you do if you get bitten? Below, you’ll find tips on how to avoid the snake in the first place, how to prepare for your hike — and then what to do if the worst happens:

AVOIDING A SNAKE BITE In the U.S., roughly 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes yearly. To prevent a snake bite from happening when you’re out on a hike, below are some tips to consider from the U.S. Department of Agriculture: Prepare for your hike Wear over-the-ankle boots, thick socks, and loose-fitting long pants Don’t go barefoot or use sandals While on your trip Stick to well-used trails when exploring Avoid walking through tall grass and weeds Watch where you step Avoid wandering in the dark When going over fallen trees or large rocks, inspect the surrounding areas to make sure there are no snakes Be cautious when climbing rocks or gathering firewood Shake out sleeping bags before using them and inspect logs before sitting down

PREPARING FOR YOUR IDAHO HIKE Hiking on a new trail can be exciting, making it easy to get lost or hurt in a no-cell service area. It is essential to stay vigilant on designated trails. Below are some tips from the National Park Service to prevent getting lost: Review your route before you get on the trail Pack a compass or handheld GPS Be aware of trail junctions Watch out for information signs Keep an eye out for landmarks throughout the trail Call 911 if you have an emergency, like a rattlesnake bite. Remember, you don’t need a cell phone provider to use emergency services.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU DON’T HAVE A CELL SIGNAL Worst case scenario, you find yourself in a remote area with no cell service and potentially even hurt. Below are some tips for finding help if you’re in this situation:

Calling for help Many satellite emergency communicators can send text messages and have an SOS feature to send coordinates. Some iPhone users can make an SOS call through the lock screen. The call will automatically call a local emergency number and share your location information, according to Apple. One thing to consider is that iPhone 14 phone models and those after can use the emergency SOS feature with only satellite and not cellular data or WiFi coverage.

Self-rescue Calling for help when you’re deep in the Idaho mountains is determined on a case-by-case basis. Below are some general tips on finding help if you’re lost: Try getting back to a cell service area to call for help. If you feel lost, use a handheld GPS, compass or map to help get you back, according to the National Park Service.

If you’re lost and have no way to get help, following a drainage or stream downhill can be used as a last resort, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service.

When waiting for help, follow these tips, according to the Department of Agriculture: Immediately call dispatch or 911 and stay calm. A higher heart rate will pump the venom through your bloodstream faster.

Wash the bite gently with soap and water, and remove any tight clothing or jewelry around areas that may swell. If possible, keep the bite below heart level. This will prevent the venom from reaching your heart as quickly.

Do not restrict blood flow by applying a tourniquet or icing the wound. Many amputations from rattlesnake bites occur because the wound is iced or blood flow is restricted.

Do not try to suck the poison out with your mouth. The poison could possibly enter another cut in your mouth or be swallowed.

Dan working with Brian Burbridge and Mark Ottman on his “C” Bucker Certification

Dan evaluating at the Stanley Sawyer Workshop

Good morning, Attached is the R4 Saw Accident/ Near Miss Review from 2020-2023.  There were 25 incidents reported, with 15 of those incidents resulting in injury. This review was modeled after the Lessons Learned Center 2004-2019 Tree Felling Accident Analysis.  It is understood that this review does not capture all incidents and near misses, only the incidents that were voluntarily submitted using the R4 Saw Accident and Near Miss Reporting Form.  This form is available for use by all agency, partner, and volunteer sawyers.  The intent of these reviews is to help facilitate conversation during training and chainsaw refreshers regarding topics where sawyers are getting injured or having near misses.  Thanks for sharing and please reach out if you have any questions.

Region 4 Saw Accident_Near Miss Review 2020-2023

2024 Northern Rockies WSI Sessions

2024 Northern Rockies Wilderness Skills Institute Application

The 2024 Northern Rockies Wilderness Skills Institute will be held from May 20 – 24, 2024. It will start at 11am PT on Monday and conclude at 12pm PT on Friday. All participants are expected to sign up for the entire week. COST: There is no cost to attend. FOOD: On your own – no food provided. Participants will handle their own meals. Cooking facilities may be provided – more information will be provided ahead of the event.

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Dr. Donner discusses some key general tips for SAM splint use, and demonstrates a sugar tong splint for wrist and forearm injuries. Includes discussion on structural bends, fitting and molding technique, immobilization with sling, supination, and pronation. MedWild provides wilderness medicine, wilderness survival, and search and rescue instructional videos on a variety of topics: high altitude illness, traveler’s diarrhea, shoulder dislocation and reduction, shelter building, bushcraft, space blankets, hypothermia, medical kits, survival kits, frostbite, snake bites, fire craft, ropes and knots, orthopedic injuries and sam splints, cold water immersion and more.

Instructor: Howard Donner, MD Co-Author “Field Guide to Wilderness Medicine” Served as a physician for Denali National Park, Himalayan Rescue Association, and the 1998 NOVA Everest expedition. Served as a medical operations consultant for NASA for over 5 years. Whitewater rafting guide, commercial pilot, and certified flight instructor.

Recommended Audience: Outdoor enthusiasts and health care professionals including physicians, nurses, search and rescue teams, EMT, paramedics, ski patrol, corpsman, guides, instructors, wilderness first responders, and anyone else interested in educational and “how to” videos on wilderness emergency medicine, search and rescue, expedition medicine, backcountry first aid, wilderness survival training, and military medicine. Dr. Donner’s draws on his extensive backcountry and travel experience to highlight key signs, symptoms, treatments, and improvised techniques and skills.

More from MedWild: Complete Video Library:    / medwildvideos     / medwildvideos     / medwildvideos   MedWild videos featured at: www.wilderness-medicine.com

Be a “Professional Beginner”

Always be learning, always striving to approach the process with the wide openness of someone starting fresh and fighting the natural tendencies to Narrow one’s mind and calcify one’s conceptual model.

New Information should be welcomed despite its demands for flexibility and ongoing adaptation.  With this approach, learning is also exhilarating, a journey of endless discovery and self-Improvement!

Plan Ahead and Prepare

Dust off your boots and get ready for trail season! Join us the evening before our volunteer schedule launches to learn about this year’s best projects and how you can join. Hear this season’s highlights from our Trail Projects Director Alex Cravener and Board Member and Crew Leader Tom Dabrowski. We’ll have some fun trails trivia sprinkled throughout and tips for what to expect if this is your first time out on the trail.  SIGN UP HERE

https://equinediseasecc.org/alerts

Monday, January 8, 2024 – 5:51 AM MST