Bill
LC 2187
Montana resolution seeks federal release of wilderness study areas to permit resource development instead of permanent conservation protections.
LC 2187 is a Montana resolution calling for the release of federal wilderness study areas (WSAs) from their protected designation, allowing them to be managed for other uses. The bill is currently in draft stage and has not yet been formally introduced to the legislature. This type of resolution typically expresses legislative intent to Congress or federal agencies regarding public land management.
Wilderness study areas are federally protected lands managed by agencies like the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service with restrictions on development, logging, and resource extraction. Releasing these areas could open approximately 5-9 million acres (nationwide figure for all WSAs) to commercial use, potentially affecting water quality, wildlife habitat, and recreation access while generating revenue through resource development. This reflects ongoing tensions between conservation interests and industries seeking access to federal lands.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
Sign in to ask a question.
