08:48 AM MDT on Wednesday, July 6, 2005

Associated Press

IDAHO FALLS -- U.S. Senator Larry Craig of Idaho is touring the state this week to hear what residents have to say about public lands management issues.

Craig says the government wants to maximize the use of public lands in a way that doesn't damage them.

He says certain uses have to be designated for certain areas, but the government shouldn't restrict access altogether.

The senator is being accompanied by officials from the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management.

Mark Rey is the Undersecretary for Natural Resources and Environment at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

He says many special interest groups are learning that the West is better off if they cooperate.

The tour meets in Boise today and will meet in Coeur d'Alene tomorrow.