The Importance of MILES

In my opinion, one of the things (if not THE thing) that makes Idaho so great and what draws so many people to the state to live and play is the large amount of public land. Over 60% of Idaho is public land, placing as 4th among all states for public land (1-Alaska, 2-Nevada, 3-Utah). Whether you are a hunter or angler, a mountain biker or hiker, a horse enthusiast, a kayaker or rafter, a bird watcher, an ATV rider, a fungus hunter (mmmm, morels), a skier or snowshoer, a snowmobile rider, or a motorcyclist or RV enthusiast, (and the list goes on!) you love the recreational opportunities all of that public land allows.

All of that recreational activity also means significant income for the state. Permits for hunting and fishing, boat and ATV registration fees, camp ground fees, fuel sales, outdoor equipment sales and rentals, food and souvenir sales, lodging taxes, etc. bring big dollars and employ,net opportunities. According to the Idaho Commerce website, "Idaho's $3.4 billion tourism industry employs more than 26,000 Idahoans and generates almost $500 million in local, state, and federal tax revenues."

But it's not all about the recreation. That same land is used for so many other human purposes: grazing of livestock, mining of minerals, logging, food production, energy production, providing the water to support our agricultural and day to day needs, etc. All of these also generate income for the state and help to strengthen the economy by providing employment opportunities.

However, all of the uses of our public lands and resources must be carefully monitored and regulated in order to ensure that the natural resources that make all of this possible are sustainable for the future. This is why the work done by MILES is so important. 

The research being conducted through the MILES program strives to ensure that a balance is maintained. As seen in the video about population growth, climate change, and water scarcity in the Treasure Valley, it is vital to Idaho that we are informed and making wise decisions. The research being conducted by MILES is helping guide important management decisions regarding our state and it is being presented in a user friendly way such that the public can easily understand what is being done and why it matters. The training and resources provided for educators allows us to share with our students the importance understanding and managing our ecosystem services as well as the AWESOME educational career opportunities that are available. Through the MILES program, education creates enthusiasm which benefits us all!