BOISE, Idaho — The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) said it has determined the cause of the Three Point Fire near Lucky Peak, people burning toilet paper. The fire burned over 750 acres of important wildlife habitat, and it will take years for the area to recover,
"One ill-timed wildfire in sagebrush landscapes can wipe away many of its qualities as important wildlife habitat for 20-30 years of recovery," said State Wildlife Habitat Program Manager Sal Palazzolo. "One ill-timed wildfire in sagebrush landscapes can wipe away many of its qualities as important wildlife habitat for 20-30 years of recovery."
IDFG stated; "And the crappy part? It could have easily been avoided had a couple of hikers made better decisions about how to dispose of their toilet paper."
No humans were injured during the fire but a lot of vegetation that wildlife depend on, is gone.
"Recall back in 2015, a mountain biker torched a 73-acre section of the foothills after making the same mistake," stated a news release.
The department is urging people to be responsible when recreating in Idaho.
"Folks, with the increases in fire severity and frequency we are seeing in the West, it is crucial to exercise caution when out exploring Idaho's wildlands. Be overly cautious. When disposing of used toilet paper, pack it out or bury it well. Land managers like campfires just as much as anyone; if they're imposing a fire restriction, it's for a reason," stated a news release.
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