Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act

S. 1198 would protect approximately 23 million acres of public land across Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming by designating them as wilderness areas, wild and scenic rivers, and biological corridors. The bill aims to preserve ecosystems in five major regions including Greater Yellowstone, Greater Glacier/Northern Continental Divide, Greater Salmon/Selway, Greater Cabinet-Yaak-Selkirk, and Greater Hells Canyon. It would protect approximately 1,800 miles of rivers and streams and establish wildlife corridors to connect fragmented habitats and support species like grizzly bears, bull trout, Canadian lynx, and native salmon populations.

The bill would restrict certain activities like logging, road construction, and mining in designated areas. Supporters argue it would protect watersheds that supply water to farming, ranching, and municipal systems; preserve carbon-storing forests; and support recreation-based economies. Opponents raise concerns about potential job losses in extraction industries including logging, mining, and oil and gas production. The bill has not yet advanced to committee and faces significant legislative hurdles.