West Fork of the Clearwater. Photo Courtesy of John Gatchell.

6,000 acres of the Upper West Fork of the Clearwater River would be added to the Mission Mountain Wilderness. This drainage is the largest roadless watershed bordering the Mission Mountains Wilderness. It provides great hunting and excellent habitat for lynx, fisher, wolverine, pine marten, elk, and grizzlies. In addition, it serves as an important wildlife corridor between the Mission and Swan Ranges and strengthens native wildlife populations. The area is currently a nonmotorozed wildlife area under the Lolo National Forest Plan, and is recommended by the U.S. Forest Service for designation as wilderness.