5 Questions: Charlie Clough, Friends of Scotchman Peaks

1. What is the No. 1 challenge in Friends of Scotchman Peaks’ quest to obtain the wilderness designation?

“Bringing the political base on board that would encourage our delegation in Washington D.C., to take a proposal for the Scotchman Peaks to the table.”

2. With the different viewpoints out there, do you believe conflict can ever be replaced with cooperation to reach the organization’s goals?

“Sure … there is in any conflict; there is always room for compromise. Certain facets of the conflict can be found that both parties can come to agreement on.”

3. On a personal level, what is your absolutely favorite spot to visit while in the Scotchman Peaks area?

“I would have to name two to be fair with myself. One would be the top of Star Peak and the old lookout because of its panoramic view and the other would be the ridge to the north of Little Spar Lake that opens up access to tremendous backcountry.”

4. The economic future of Lincoln County could depend more and more on tourism. Do you feel the wilderness designation could have a positive impact on that future?

“We can infer that is the case. You only need to look at towns or cities like Whitefish and Bozeman, Mont., that have wilderness areas close at hand, and it’s part of the draw that brings people, and people with business, to stay in those communities because of that enhanced quality of life that wilderness brings. This is seen not only in Whitefish and Bozeman, but throughout the inter-mountain west.”

5. If the Scotchmans received the wilderness designation, would it be more difficult to push through mining and timber projects?

“At this time, there are no mining or timber harvest activities planned in the Scotchman Peaks’ proposed wilderness. Having grown up as a child of the timber industry in Libby, Mont., this makes it an easy proposal for me to support.”

(Charlie Clough is a third generation native of Libby and serves on the Friends of Scotchman Peaks board).