Boulder-White Clouds

The Boulder and White Cloud Mountains contain the largest unprotected National Forest roadless area remaining in the west. With over 500,000 acres of wild lands, the Boulder-White Clouds contain enormous biological diversity and provide a critical linkage between other Idaho wild lands. Conservation Geography is working with the Idaho Conservation League and the Boulder-White Clouds Council to develop maps and other graphics promoting wilderness designation for this area.

The greatest hurdle in efforts to gain permanent protection for this area is related to motorized access. Conservation Geography is using road information acquired from the Forest Service to show the extent of the road network that will still be available to motorized access should the Boulder-White Clouds be designated a wilderness area. Maps have been provided to local activists who are reviewing and updating the information based on their knowledge of the motorized trail system and recommendations for closures. A major campaign is planned for this summer and fall in order to generate a broad base of public support for designation in an effort to sway political leaders. Conservation Geography will be providing graphic products to supports grassroots organizing, public education, media releases, and lobbying of Idaho’s Congressional delegation.