Glacier Country News

Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke has reintroduced a series of conservation bills, initially proposed in the 118th Congress. These bills seek to ensure the preservation of public lands and wildlife habitats. Zinke expressed a personal connection to the cause, saying, "When you grow up in Montana, conservation isn't just a priority, it's part of who you are." He emphasized the importance of maintaining public lands for future generations.

Key among the reintroduced measures is the Public Lands in Public Hands Act, designed to prevent the sale or transfer of most public lands managed by the Department of the Interior and U.S. Forest Service, except under specific conditions. It demands Congressional approval for the disposal of publicly accessible federal land tracts over 300 acres and public land tracts over 5 acres if accessible via a public waterway. This act aims to protect around 30 million acres of public land.

The act has garnered support from various organizations. Joel Webster of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership applauded the effort, stating that it is crucial for sportsmen and sportswomen who depend on public lands for hunting and fishing access. Kaden McArthur of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers also supported the initiative, noting the importance of preserving public lands against privatization.

Additionally, Zinke has introduced the Fill the Lake Act, which addresses issues of low water levels in Flathead Lake experienced in 2023. This legislation mandates the Department of Interior to maintain specified water levels in the lake between June 15th and September 15th each year.

The Wildlife Movement Through Partnerships Act is another significant proposal, aiming to enhance the health of big game migration corridors and wintering habitats. It builds upon the Secretarial Order 3362 and will codify existing conservation initiatives.

All these bills reflect Zinke's commitment to conserving public lands and wildlife for future generations.