Currently, the USFS is reviewing comments on alternatives, with the preferred alternative being closure. Other alternatives including leaving the area open, allowing trail access for Idaho-to-Idaho movement, since it is on the border and is linked to Idaho's Fremont trail system, which at more than 500 miles is Idaho's largest groomed complex.

Petroni said he expects a final record of decision to be issued sometime late this year or early in 2008. He said this project has been in the works for the past five years.

"One thing we worry about is that with the restrictions on Yellowstone, and now if they close this area, it could be the second nail in the coffin. The message to snowmobilers will be that they aren't allowed or wanted on public lands," explained Karl Wilgus, administrator of the tourism division of Idaho Commerce and Labor.

"(Montana's forest service's) position is that somewhere down the line this could be a wilderness area, and it could be in a year or 50 years. Their position is to manage it as wilderness now so they're ready somewhere down the line when and if is becomes a wilderness area. The loss to the people of Island Park and Idaho if this happens will be in the tens of millions of dollars."

Which isn't so different from what happened in West Yellowstone. The economy took a hit when the closure fight started and is just now starting to recover. Consensus is that it may take decades for a complete recovery, assuming snowmobilers are allowed to stay.

As for the Mount Jefferson decision, Cook pointed out that, "This area is a magnet for people all over the country who like to do high-mountain riding, especially here in what is some of the most spectacular country in the world.

"It is a wonderful experience, and one that is quite rare. It's a complete snow experience. Island Park, and Mount Jefferson, has an international reputation for good, dependable snow and incredible scenery. This area is too important to winter recreation to close."

The Idaho State Snowmobile Association points out that in establishing a wilderness study area in Montana, Congress said: "The use of off-road vehicles, while generally prohibited in designed wilderness areas, is entirely appropriate in wilderness study areas."

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