In 1964, more than four million acres in Washington State were designated as wilderness area.  Today, those proposing what is called the Wild Sky Wilderness Area want to add 100,000 more acres to that designation.  But according to Eric Montague of the Washington Policy Center, such an initiative may not be the wisest policy.  Comments Montague: “The problem with the Wild Sky proposal is that even the simplest mechanical aids would be prohibited, meaning the Forest Service cannot maintain damaged trail systems properly.  What should be done is to designate the Wild Sky Area as a National Recreation Area which would offer necessary protection, but allow for the use of mechanical equipment for maintenance.”