Wilderness and hunting

To the editor,

I've been surprised at some of the arguments I've heard against the designation of the Kettle Range as wilderness. I've hiked, skied and hunted that area for 35 years precisely because of its wild character, especially for those willing to wander off-trail. Apparently the mule deer agree, as the largest ones I've seen have been in that high country. They just don't grow as old or large in more easily accessible areas. Over the years, I've noted more and more boot and horse hunters in the Kettle Range who've reached the same conclusion. I've hunted neighboring ridges as well, but have often run into ATV's there.

With the current collaborative effort relating to logging, we can expect more thinning and restoration logging at lower elevations, likely creating more forage for big game. They will need some refuge however to reach full age and size. The best way to assure that, as well as a wilderness experience for our grand kids, is to put this wildlife corridor into federal wilderness status. Such designation will have no effect on ATV use, as they will continue to be banned on the Kettle Crest.