Shortly before the start of the August recess, both chambers of Congress passed legislation that will designate areas within the Boulder-White Cloud region of Idaho as wilderness. Led by the Idaho congressional delegation, H.R. 1138 was signed into law by the president on August 7. The Sawtooth National Recreation Area and Jerry Peak Wilderness Additions Act designates three areas to become part of the National Wilderness Preservation System, including the Jim McClure-Jerry Peak Wilderness (117,000 acres), White Clouds Wilderness (91,000 acres) and Hemingway-Boulders Wilderness (88,000 acres). Passage of the bill culminates many decades of collaborative efforts with sportsmen, ranchers, hikers, tribes and others led by Idaho Representative Mike Simpson. In addition, the new law returns a number of previous wilderness study areas to multiple use and provides funding to counties and for trail maintenance and recreational improvements.

"The passage of this bill is a huge victory for Idahoans who've worked for over 15 years to create a land management plan for the Boulder White Clouds," said Simpson. "I am grateful for each and every person who participated in crafting this solution over the years and I am especially grateful to Senator Jim Risch who worked relentlessly to see this pass the U.S. Senate today."