Idaho's Mount Borah
BLM
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
Soaring over the Snake River Birds of Prey NCA Survey pin Teepees at Idaho's Sacajawea Interpretive Center in Salmon Riding Idaho's rangelands Kayaking on Idaho's scenic rivers
Idaho
BLM>Idaho>Programs>Special Areas
Print Page
BLM Special Areas

Wilderness Study Areas

Idaho WSA Table | Idaho Wilderness Reports | WSA Brochure

Field Office WSA Pages:  BruneauChallis | Shoshone | Pocatello | Owyhee | Jarbidge | Salmon | Upper Snake | Burley | Four Rivers | Cottonwood | Coeur d'Alene    

 In 1976 Congress instructed the BLM, in the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, to inventory areas on public lands that meet the minimum criteria for wilderness designation under the Wilderness Act of 1972. These areas are called Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs). Congress also asked BLM to provide recommendations about which WSAs would be most suitable for designation as wilderness.
 
The BLM completed the Idaho Wilderness Study Report in 1991. The Report identified 67 WSAs totaling approximately 1.3 million acres on Idaho’s public lands.  

Only Congress can designate wilderness areas. Until Congress makes its decision, the BLM is required to manage all WSAs to prevent impairment of the area’s suitability for wilderness designation. Certain historic uses, such as livestock grazing and existing mining claims, can generally continue in WSAs. But most uses that can impact the wilderness qualities of WSAs are restricted. In particular, cross-country travel by Off-Highway Vehicles is not allowed in WSAs. WSAs are available for a variety of recreation activities, such as hiking and hunting (in accordance with Idaho State hunting regulations). Due to the remote character of these lands, it’s a good idea to contact the local BLM field office for the access, resource and management information that will enable a safe and rewarding visit.

Big Jacks Creek WSA