BOISE, Idaho — Outdoor recreation in Idaho is set for an improvement, according to an expanded partnership between state and federal agencies.

The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation and the U.S. Forest Service announced that they are expanding their partnership through two Good Neighbor Authority recreation agreements that will “improve trails, restore access to public lands and enhance outdoor recreation opportunities across Idaho.”

This first-of-its-kind agreement will provide “approximately $166,000 for recreation improvements, including maintenance of 115 miles of non-motorized trails and new or upgraded signage across 1,200 miles of winter recreation trails throughout North Idaho.”

The second agreement includes the Salmon-Challis National Forest and intends to improve recreation access for Idahoans within the Frank Church Wilderness and its surrounding areas.

According to this agreement, “IDPR will assist with clearing downed trees and other obstacles from portions of 542 miles of trail impacted by wildfire, insects, and disease, while also supporting construction of a motorized trail that restores public access to a significant area of Idaho’s backcountry.”

“These agreements represent the future of public land stewardship in Idaho,” said Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Director Susan Buxton in a news release. “By partnering with the U.S. Forest Service through the Good Neighbor Authority, we’re protecting some of Idaho’s most treasured landscapes while making them more accessible for residents and visitors alike. Together, we’re ensuring our trails and recreation opportunities remain safe, sustainable and enjoyable for generations to come.”

Both agreements build upon the EXPLORE Act of 2025, which paved the way for state and federal agencies to work together on recreation projects that improve public access and stewardship of National Forest lands.

“The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests and Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation have a long-standing history of working together to improve and maintain recreational access and opportunities,” said Forest Supervisor for the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests Jon Word. “Expanding this partnership through Good Neighbor Authority leverages our shared resources across boundaries, benefiting the public and the places we love to recreate.”