Download the analysis (pdf) >>

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 8, 2007

Contact:
Bob Clark, Sierra Club, (406) 549-1142

ANALYSIS SHOWS STRONG PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR KEEPING LOLO PEAK WILD

Missoula, MT. – A report released today by the local Sierra Club indicates that an overwhelming majority of the interested public is opposed to development of a ski resort on public lands around Lolo Peak.

The results are based on a content analysis report of public comment received on the revision of the Lolo and Bitterroot National Forests, Forest Plans. The agency received nearly 2,000 individual letters from members of the public, interest groups and government entities. Of these, the forest service identified 1,014 comments that were directed at the future management of the public lands around Lolo Peak.  The results show that 80% of the public is asking the agency to protect the area while only one in five comments favors resort development.

Of those supporting protection of Lolo Peak, 43% cited wilderness, roadless and primitive values as the main reason to oppose development and many advocated for expansion of the Carlton Ridge Research Natural Area. 20% cited their concern of negative economic effects and impacts to quality of life and 14% emphasized Lolo Peak’s scenic values.

Of those in favor of the resort, 58% cited an increased recreational opportunity with a shorter drive as their main rationale, while 26% cited opportunity for economic growth and job creation.

Bob Clark, Associate Representative for the Sierra Club in Missoula states; “Despite spending tens of thousands of dollars on advertising during the comment period, resort developers failed to gain support for their plan to develop the public land surrounding Lolo Peak. “ “This confirms what we’ve seen for years now; the public wants more open space – not less, we want to retain access to our public lands – not lose traditional recreation opportunities.”

John  Mumma, former Regional  Forester of the Northern Region and Director of Colorado Division of Wildlife expressed in a recent letter, “the long term, highest and best public land values for Lolo Peak and surrounding areas is for Wilderness and roadless areas.  The ecological integrity of the public lands surrounding Lolo Peak should remain intact.  And, the Carlton Ridge Research Natural Area, should be increased where feasible.”

Missoulians, clearly expressing their desire for more open space, passed an open space bond last fall. Resort developers wish to develop 12,000 acres of publicly owned open space on Lolo Peak.  “Our community is not interested in taking one step forward and two steps back.” says Clark of the Sierra Club.

 ###

The Sierra Club's members are more than 750,000 of your friends and neighbors. Inspired by nature, we work together to protect our communities and the planet. The Club is America's oldest, largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization.