Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, U.S. Forest Service Announce Historic Good Neighbor Authority Recreation Agreement

BOISE, Idaho - The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) and the U.S. Forest Service are expanding their partnership through two Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) recreation agreements that will improve trails, restore access to public lands, and enhance outdoor recreation opportunities across Idaho.

The agreements build on the authorities established through the EXPLORE Act of 2025, allowing state and federal agencies to work together on recreation projects that improve public access and stewardship of National Forest lands.

One agreement, covering the Idaho Panhandle and Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, is the first in the nation to utilize the EXPLORE Act's Good Neighbor Authority recreation pilot. The partnership provides approximately $166,000 for recreation improvements, including maintenance of 115 miles of non-motorized trails and new or upgraded signage across 1,200 miles of winter recreation trails throughout North Idaho.

A second agreement with the Salmon-Challis National Forest will focus on maintaining recreation access within the Frank Church Wilderness and surrounding areas. Under the agreement, IDPR will assist with clearing downed trees and other obstacles from portions of 542 miles of trail impacted by wildfire, insects, and disease, while also supporting construction of a motorized trail that restores public access to a significant area of Idaho's backcountry outside of the Frank Church Wilderness.

"These agreements represent the future of public land stewardship in Idaho," said Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Director Susan Buxton. "By partnering with the U.S. Forest Service through the Good Neighbor Authority, we're protecting some of Idaho's most treasured landscapes while making them more accessible for residents and visitors alike. Together, we're ensuring our trails and recreation opportunities remain safe, sustainable, and enjoyable for generations to come."

"The Nez Perce- Clearwater National Forests and Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation have a long-standing history of working together to improve and maintain recreational access and opportunities," said Forest Supervisor for the Nez Perce-Clearwater NFs, Jon Word. "Expanding this partnership through Good Neighbor Authority leverages our shared resources across boundaries, benefitting the public and the places we love to recreate."

The agreements establish a framework for continued collaboration between IDPR and the U.S. Forest Service, with projects beginning in 2026 and expanding in future years. As outdoor recreation continues to grow across Idaho, these partnerships will help improve recreation infrastructure, restore access to public lands, and ensure Idaho's forests remain welcoming destinations for all who enjoy the outdoors.

Media Contact
Will Armbruster
IDPR Communications Manager
[email protected].