x
Breaking News
More () »

President Trump signs into law boundary changes for wilderness areas in Owyhee County

The Natural Resources Management Act contains legislation that written by Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo.
Credit: Official White House photo by Shealah Craighead
President Trump signs the S.47, the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management and Recreation Act. The Act contains Crapo's Owyhee language.

WASHINGTON, D.C., USA — President Donald Trump has signed into law the Natural Resources Management Act.

The Act contains legislation that was written by Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo and establishes boundary changes for three wilderness areas in Owyhee County.

The senator called the president’s signature on S. 47 a major milestone.

“The collaboration among the Shoshone-Paiute tribes, recreational groups, conservationists, ranchers, local residents, elected leaders and others is working to preserve the cultural, environmental and economic future of those who have lived in Owyhee County for generations,” said Sen. Crapo. “The changes signed into law today by President Trump reflect the original intent of the members of the Owyhee Initiative, and ensures those who have accessed public lands for generations in the Owyhees will continue to do so, while also continuing to maintain preservation measures.”

RELATED: House OKs resolution to reduce Idaho wilderness study areas

The lands package includes the changes to the Owyhee wilderness area supported by area ranchers, conservationists and others involved with the Owyhee Initiative.

“These corrections to the wilderness boundaries, supported by all the members of the Owyhee Initiative, shows that collaboration in Idaho works,” said Craig Gehrke, Owyhee Initiative Board Member. “Collaboration produces enduring, workable solutions.”

It’s a collaborative land management effort that’s been 10 years in the works.

Crapo introduced the Owyhee Initiative Implementation Act in 2009. It has reduced public lands conflicts and established a path for future management in Owyhee County.

Before You Leave, Check This Out