By allowing large portions of Montana to remain public lands, we, a diverse collection in economic standing, cultural and political designation, private interest, and ecological concern, are allowed to embrace the land and call it our own. By transferring our public lands over to private or even state ownership, we distill this diversity of ownership. We limit the number of stakeholders involved. The intrinsic and economic value of the land, water, flora, and inhabiting wildlife deteriorates.
To take away the voices and in some cases the legislative powers of each of these invested groups, we reduce the importance of our public lands. The ability to manage public lands comes best with developing a direct and intimate relationship with the area. However, by forfeiting inclusive land management practices, we limit the openness to public scrutiny and review, and with that we lose the complete valuation of the land.
The importance of Montana’s public lands extend beyond the consideration of just Montanans. We must keep in mind the visitors of other states and nations. Those who stay only briefly and leave are able to leave with an overwhelming admiration for our collective investment in public lands. We need to keep it public.
Brian Dao
Hungry Horse