U.S. Representative Mike Simpson (pictured left) is working to jump start a proposed new central Idaho wilderness by dropping provisions opposed by the House Democratic majority and some environmental groups. At a conference near Stanley over the weekend, Simpson announced his bill would no longer give 94 acres of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area to the city of Stanley and Custer County for 14 lots suitable for building. Instead, Custer County would get up to $3 million in mining revenue. Simpson would also drop a planned new Boulder White Clouds Management Area designation, thought by some to reduce protections. The Idaho Conservation League, which backs Simpson’s plan, says the proposed changes address areas of contention. However, groups including the Western Lands Project that oppose the plan, called the proposed changes insignificant.
(AP)