Nationally recognized forests conserved

NAPLES — In an area recognized as one of the region’s most important wildlife linkage zones and one of Idaho’s highest priority areas for benefiting forest-based markets, approximately 5,568 acres of forestland has been permanently conserved to benefit wildlife, local economies, clean water and recreation.

These forests, located east of McArthur Lake between Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry, were placed under conservation easements in September. The conservation easements were conveyed to the Idaho Department of Lands through a partnership between The Molpus Woodlands Group, LLC, on behalf of clients, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, The Nature Conservancy and the U.S. Forest Service. Conservation easements are voluntary and legally binding agreements that compensate landowners for limiting certain uses, such as development and subdivision, while still retaining private ownership.

“Conservation easements and the Forest Legacy Program keep private working forests working,” said Karen Sjoquist, IDL Forest Legacy Program Coordinator. “The continued use, protection, and sustainability of these forests provide local jobs while protecting the social and environmental values that forests provide.”

Molpus believes that private working forests provide environmental, economic and social benefits to meet the needs of present and future generations. Molpus, committed to sustainable forestry and sound stewardship practices, manages these forestlands to adhere to Sustainable Forestry Initiative standards. This initiative is based on principles that promote sustainable forest management, including measures to protect water quality, biodiversity, wildlife habitat, species at risk, and forests with exceptional conservation value.

“We are proud to work with The Nature Conservancy and the public agency partners to dedicate these properties as working forests into perpetuity. Our commitment to manage these properties on a sustainable basis benefits long-term timber production, wildlife, and recreation,” said Ken Sewell, Chief Operating Officer of Molpus.

The conserved lands are located within the McArthur Lake Wildlife Corridor, an area of Idaho nationally recognized for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation and wildlife. By protecting this area from development, the project allows for permanent public access for activities such as hiking, hunting and berry picking.

“These lands in the McArthur Lake linkage area provide tremendous conservation value for native wildlife species while also maintaining jobs in the local communities,” said Toni Hardesty, State Director for the Conservancy in Idaho. “We thank Molpus and their clients for their shared vision for this land to support the economy and wildlife in North Idaho.”

Funding for the project came through the U.S. Forest Service Forest Legacy Program, and from Idaho Department of Fish and Game and the Conservancy. The program seeks to protect “working forests” – those that support the natural resources economy while protecting water quality, providing habitat, opportunities for recreation and other public benefits.

“We are conserving wildlife habitat while providing access for hunting and other outdoor activities,” Idaho Fish and Game Director Virgil Moore said. “This easement is a win-win for the people of Idaho and its wildlife.”

Janet Valle with the U.S. Forest Service noted, “The Forest Legacy Program is a partnership with the State, landowners and partners to protect important forest lands and provide economic and resource values for future generations. We are grateful for the landowners and partners’ commitment and hard work to protect Idaho’s privately owned forest lands.”

Forest Legacy funds originate from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, royalties paid by energy companies drilling for oil and gas on the Outer Continental Shelf. The revenues from the depletion of one natural resource support the conservation of another precious resource – our land and water. Legacy funds are used for forest conservation throughout the United States and Idaho receives project grants through a nationally competitive process. IDL is working with other landowners in the McArthur Lake and Hall Mountain areas of Boundary County and at Clagstone Meadows in Bonner County.