The Idaho Chapter of the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers partnered with the Payette National Forest on August 14 & 15 to construct a dozen barriers on West Mountain northwest of No Business Lookout near the Five Corners intersection. The barriers were placed on unauthorized routes that have become erosion problems because of frequent illegal use. The barriers are made of native materials and designed to withstand the heavy snow loads at these high elevation. The hope is that with additional treatment by the Payette NF to help vegetation establish and reduce erosion, the unauthorized trails will recover by the time the barriers deteriorate.
These barriers will not only help reduce soil erosion, invasive species introduction and increase native vegetation in the area, they will help provide wildlife security during hunting seasons and allow for a higher-quality hunting experience for hunters traveling on foot. The Chapter will be placing BHA signs like the one pictured at each barrier in the next few weeks.
About Idaho BHA
The Idaho chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is a group united by a passion to protect and conserve public land forests, mountains, prairies, streams and lakes that support our hunting and angling traditions.