History: The Department of Natural Resources designated the Back Country Area of Morgan-Monroe State Forest in 1981 to be a wilderness experience. There have been no sales in the area since at least 1979. These 3,100 acres have been left alone throughout that time. In previous administrations, this area was the example of an state forest that was set aside from commercial logging. Also during this time, the community of hikers, backpackers, runners and wildlife enthusiasts have increased their usage of the area.

Under the Daniels administration, the Division of Forestry has increased logging by 400% and decided to include timber sales on the Back Country Area.

In the spring of 2008, the City of Bloomington passed a resolution calling for the protection of the Back Country Area.

In January of 2009, Rep. Matt Pierce and Rep. Ralph Foley introduced a bill to protect the Back Country Area from commercial activity.

In February of 2009, the House Natural Resources Committee referred the bill to summer study.

On August 5, 2009, the Division of Forestry scheduled the first timber sale on the Back Country Area.

On August 14, 2009, in response to pressure from Representatives and citizens, the Division of Forestry agreed to postpone the sale until after the summer study hearings.

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