Idaho Parks and Rec, U.S. Forest Service announce historic agreement

The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation and the U.S. Forest Service are expanding their partnership through two Good Neighbor Authority recreation agreements aimed at improving trails, restoring access to public lands and enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities across Idaho.

The agreements build on authorities established through the EXPLORE Act of 2025, which allows state and federal agencies to collaborate on recreation projects that improve public access and stewardship of National Forest lands.

One agreement, covering the Idaho Panhandle and Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, is the first in the nation to use the EXPLORE Act’s Good Neighbor Authority recreation pilot. The partnership provides approximately $166,000 for recreation improvements, including maintenance of 115 miles of non-motorized trails and new or upgraded signage across 1,200 miles of winter recreation trails throughout north Idaho.

A second agreement with the Salmon-Challis National Forest will focus on maintaining recreation access within the Frank Church Wilderness and surrounding areas. Under that agreement, the state parks department will assist with clearing downed trees and other obstacles from portions of 542 miles of trail affected by wildfire, insects and disease, while also supporting construction of a motorized trail that restores public access to a significant area of Idaho’s backcountry outside the Frank Church Wilderness.

“These agreements represent the future of public land stewardship in Idaho,” Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Director Susan Buxton said. “By partnering with the U.S. Forest Service through the Good Neighbor Authority, we’re protecting some of Idaho’s most treasured landscapes while making them more accessible for residents and visitors alike. Together, we’re ensuring our trails and recreation opportunities remain safe, sustainable and enjoyable for generations to come.”

Jon Word, forest supervisor for the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, said the two agencies have a long history of working together on recreation access.

“Expanding this partnership through Good Neighbor Authority leverages our shared resources across boundaries, benefitting the public and the places we love to recreate,” Word said.

The agreements establish a framework for continued collaboration between the two agencies, with projects beginning in 2026 and expanding in future years. As outdoor recreation continues to grow across Idaho, officials said the partnerships will help improve recreation infrastructure, restore access to public lands and ensure the state’s forests remain welcoming destinations for those who enjoy the outdoors.

This story was written using artificial intelligence with human oversight.