Enjoying Wilderness Areas
Greg Burke Website
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Reid Williams, 2021 Conservationist of the Year
Reid Williams, 2021 Conservationist of the Year
How far are you willing to hike for conservation? Reid Williams offered to put in more than 20 miles a day, by himself, walking and monitoring fence lines on Beatys Butte. And that was on top of weekly visits to the ONDA office, where he is always eager to help with extra projects. In acknowledgment of his willingness and helpful spirit, ONDA named him our 2021 Conservationist of the Year.
listen
Western Meadowlark Dawn Chorus
Western Meadowlark Dawn Chorus
fact
Bitteroot
Bitteroot
Bitteroot blooms on north-facing cliffs in western North America.
The Paiute name for bitteroot is kangedya. Traditional Native American uses of the plant included eating the roots, mixed with berries and meat, and using the roots to treat sore throats.
What Can I Do In A Wilderness Area?
The Wilderness Act lays out the ground rules intended to preserve the experience of visiting wild places.
There are several exceptions to these rules that help protect safety and allow traditional activities to continue. For example, although motorized vehicles are generally prohibited in wilderness, firefighters can use bulldozers, trucks, chainsaws, or other motorized tools to put out a fire if it is threatening homes outside of the wilderness area.
Examples of activities that are allowed in Wilderness Areas:
- “Primitive recreation” activities, such as fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, and rafting
- Educational and scientific study
- Use of a wheelchair
- Existing livestock grazing and the exercise of other “valid existing rights,” including water rights and mineral rights
- Fire suppression where necessary to protect human safety and property both within the wilderness area and outside its borders
- Use of motorized vehicles when necessary to ensure the health and safety of people and livestock, such as in search and rescue operations or for fire suppression
Examples of activities that are not allowed in Wilderness Areas:
- Recreational activities that require a motorized/mechanized vehicle, such as off-highway vehicles, motorbikes, mountain bikes, snowmobiles, and motorboats
- Construction of new structures or roads
- Energy exploration and development
- Landing aircraft, except during emergencies
- Commercial enterprise, excluding guide services whose purpose is to help wilderness users enjoy legal recreational activities
For additional guidance, refer to the principles of Leave No Trace.