PUBLIC LANDS -- When a few Idaho lawmakers say federal public lands would be better off in state control, look at the state's record.

"Since Congress gave land to Idaho at statehood, the state has sold two of every five acres to timber companies, cattle ranchers, private fishing clubs and lakeside homeowners on Priest and Payette lakes," says Rocky Barker of the Idaho Statesman.

The information comes from an analysis of Idaho Department of Lands data obtained by The Wilderness Society through a public records request. The group advocates keeping national forests and public lands under federal control.

“History is clear on what will happen if our national public lands are given to the state,” said Brad Brooks, The Wilderness Society’s deputy regional director, based in Boise. “They’re almost certain to end up in hands that will lock the public out.”

Read the Idaho Statesman's story here.