Lawmakers propose NARIPA to protect 16 million acres of wilderness in the Western US

The NREPA Hearings held on May 13, 2025, in Missoula, Montana, focused on the urgent need for wilderness protection in the Northern Rockies. The meeting featured passionate discussions about the impact of logging and mining on federal lands, emphasizing the importance of preserving these natural resources for future generations.

A key speaker highlighted the emotional connection many have with the forests, recalling personal experiences of visiting these areas and expressing concern that such opportunities may no longer be available for future generations. The speaker pointed out the rapid depletion of forests and questioned the sustainability of the timber industry, noting that federal subsidies significantly support logging operations. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the financial losses from logging on federal lands are substantial, with expenditures exceeding receipts by a three-to-one ratio.

The discussion also addressed the implications of the proposed NARIPA legislation, which aims to designate over 16 million acres of new wilderness. It was clarified that the bill would not alter the status of private or state-owned lands and would not designate areas currently open to timber and mining. The legislation focuses on protecting ecosystems and habitats, including the endangered woodland caribou and vital trout streams.

Experts, including Dr. Thomas Power from the University of Montana, contributed to the conversation by stating that only 20% of the designated land is suitable for timber harvest, underscoring the limited impact on the overall timber industry. The speaker emphasized the interconnectedness of ecosystems, advocating for a holistic approach to wilderness protection that transcends political boundaries.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for preserving these national treasures, reinforcing the belief that the remaining untouched wilderness is invaluable and should be safeguarded for the benefit of all Americans. The discussions set the stage for further deliberations on the NARIPA legislation and its potential to protect critical habitats and ecosystems in the region.