Input sought on Twentymile Creek proposal

March 12, 2012

Public input is being sought as the Idaho Panhandle National Forests proposes a project in the Twentymile Creek area on National Forest System lands within the Bonner Ferry Ranger District. This project proposal has been collaboratively developed with the Kootenai Valley Resource Initiative (KVRI) to enhance forest health, reduce wildfire risks and protect drinking water. This project is the first significant proposal on the Bonners Ferry Ranger District since national forest system lands in the lower Kootenai River valley were selected to receive funding through the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program. Bonners Ferry District Ranger Linda McFaddan is especially pleased to see this proposal beginning public outreach. “We’re excited to see this important project moving forward with input from our partners at KVRI and with national funding that recognizes the benefits and strength of our collaboration here in Boundary County,” she said. Public scoping for the project is one of the first steps in developing an Environmental Assessment for the project and relies heavily on public input to help identify concerns and potential issues so that they can be addressed early in project planning. Copies of the scoping letter, which includes the Purpose and Need of the proposal and proposed actions, can be obtained by visiting the Idaho Panhandle National Forests website or by contacting Doug Nishek at dnishek@fs.fed.us or (208) 267-6765. All public comments during the scoping period must be received no later than April 2, 2012.