The Record of Decision finalizing the revised Bighorn National Forest Plan in Wyoming was signed earlier this month and will take effect in December 2005 after it is printed in the Federal Register.

While there are flaws in the plan, it does recommend nearly 34,000 acres of wilderness for the Rock Creek area and Wild and Scenic River designation for parts of the Tongue and Little Bighorn rivers.

Revision of the 1985 Bighorn National Forest plan began in 2000. Citizens have spoken out in favor of wilderness for Rock Creek and other special places on the forest multiple public meetings and through written comments. The Forest received a total of approximately 19,000 public comments on the plan revision.

While the final plan does not recommend all the wilderness citizens advocated for, but it is a great step forward in providing recognition and on-the-ground protection for the Rock Creek area. Wyoming citizens have proposed that the Rock Creek area be added as part of the Cloud Peak Wilderness for more than 30 years. This area provides a crucial wildland link and wildlife corridor from the high peaks thru Ponderosa forests and meadows clear on down to the high plains along the east flank of the Big Horn Mountains.

For More Information

• Bart Koehler, The Wilderness Society-Wilderness Support Center, 970-247-8788