Letter to the Editor: Applauding Wilderness Designation

A while ago I submitted this letter to the editor. Thought it merited face-time here, too.


December 28th, 2015

Last Friday, I packed snow gear, ice climbing clothes, and skis into my Toyota, and left for Christmas break at home—the Flathead Valley. Regardless of college commitments, time constraints, or weather, time in the wilderness is never idly spent. The practice binds Montanans together, in an understanding gained only through experience.

That very week, the Rocky Mountain Front Heritage Act and the North Fork Watershed Protection Act were passed. Our thankfulness goes to Representative Steve Daines, Senator John Tester and Senator Steve Walsh for their devotion, teamwork, and effort to pass these bills. A day in which Montana’s mountains and lands are preserved and protected, is a day worth remembering. The acts protect two of Montana’s most beautiful and unique landscapes. The Heritage Act protects the Rocky Mountain Front, a recreational and habitat treasure encompassing the Bob Marshall Wilderness—my childhood backyard. The Protection Act preserves the North Fork Watershed area from future mining or drilling; a noteworthy protection for this elegant landscape sitting on the feet of Glacier National Park, vital to Flathead water purity.

This type of progress does not come without effort and commitment, on local and governmental levels alike. As we enjoy this snowy season, let’s remark on the great achievements sustaining Montana’s quintessence.