public lands

Federal plans for millions of acres of land could be invalid under a new interpretation of a 1996 law.

A trails project planned in Seeley Lake has raised the concerns of some area residents, and Missoula County this week took steps to assuage their concerns.

Rick Graetz writes, "Protecting these lands isn't just about the environment; it’s about safeguarding our quality of life and our fundamental freedom to roam."

Regardless of their political leanings or where they live in the state, Montanans consistently value their public lands and want to conserve them, even though their elected representatives tend not to, according to a Montana-centric poll.

The lawsuit follows the decision by the Department of the Interior last month to revoke protections of land alongside the Trans-Alaskan pipeline.

Using a new tool, Republicans have revoked plans that restricted mining and oil production on federal lands in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota and Wyoming.

Sen. Ellie Boldman and Rep. Josh Seckinger write, "This bill does one simple thing. It clarifies in Montana law that corner crossing — when no private land is touched and no property is damaged — is lawful."

The amendment would apply to land acquired by the state from the federal government.

The Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, which was co-founded by Montana Rep. Ryan Zinke and New Mexico Rep. Gabe Vasquez in May, made its first official endorsement of a bill.

Nick Gevock writes, "Daines can show he’s truly a friend of public lands by voting against the confirmation of Steve Pearce."