Wild-er-ness, Not Wild-less-ness with Steve Zettel

Episode 3: Outfitter Day, Legislative Updates, and Protecting the Wilderness ExperienceIn this episode, IOGA Executive Director Erik Weiseth and Policy Director Jack Hurty recap a busy week at the Idaho State House, including the annual "Lobby Day" and Wild Game Dinner. They provide critical updates on legislation affecting public lands, working animals, and wildlife crossings.The second half of the episode features a deep-dive interview with outfitter legend Steve Zettel of Idaho Wilderness Company. Steve discusses the "Not In Wilderness" Coalition, a movement dedicated to preserving the philosophical and spiritual heart of the wilderness experience from the intrusion of modern technology and constant connectivity.Key Topics Covered:[00:00] Recap of IOGA Lobby Day: Feeding over 200 people at the Basque Center and meeting with over 40 legislators, including the Governor and Lt. Governor.[03:00] Legislative Wins & Watches: * SB 1238: The withdrawal of the 30-day notice bill for season setting.SB 1241: Protecting the right to use working animals (dogs, horses, mules).HCR 26: The push for wildlife crossings to reduce big game mortality and improve public safety.[06:40] Dueling Constitutional Amendments: Breaking down HJR 8 (Raybold) and SJR 103 (Adams) regarding the future of public land management in Idaho.[09:15] The Economic Impact of Public Lands: Previewing a major report on the $838 million annual federal spend on Idaho lands and the 244,000 jobs they support.[14:40] Upcoming Events: Information on the THAW Annual Gala (Feb 26) and the Salmon Chapter meeting (March 17).[16:52] Interview with Steve Zettel: * Defining the "Wilderness Experience" in the digital age.The mission of the Not In Wilderness Coalition.Why keeping technology out of the backcountry is a moral obligation to future generations.The future of wilderness management and the 1964 Wilderness Act.Mentioned in this Episode:Legislation: HJR 008, SJR 103, SB 1241, HCR 26.Guest: Steve Zettel, Idaho Wilderness CompanyThe Not In Wilderness Coalition: notinwilderness.com | Instagram: @notinwildernesscoalitionThe THAW Gala: Join us February 26th at JUMP in Boise! Get your early bird tickets before February 15th at idahooutfitters.org.