ID HJM001

Urges the Secretary of Agriculture to declare the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness and adjacent national forest lands a Natural Resources Disaster Area due to cumulative damage from large destructive forest and range fires, most recently in 2012.

Documents significant damage to watersheds, anadromous fish recovery streams, wildlife habitat, scenic values, recreational use, native plant species, historic structures, public access, air quality, trail networks, and surrounding community economies resulting from repeated large fires and reburns.

Criticizes the U.S. Forest Service for underestimating restoration costs when making fire suppression decisions, lacking emphasis on watershed and vegetation restoration, and limiting effective trail maintenance methods and volunteer use.

Urges compliance with Section 5(b) of the Central Idaho Wilderness Act requiring annual clearing of trail obstructions and demands the Forest Service prioritize training on pack stock management and safe public access.

Directs the House Chief Clerk to forward copies of this memorial to Congress, Idaho's congressional delegation, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Chief of the U.S. Forest Service.