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Northern Rockies News

(National Wildlife Federation)

Sportsmen, sportswomen and local citizens in Great Falls and Missoula recently gathered to listen to legislative candidates as they talked about their views and philosophies on public access, conservation and energy development. Russell Country Sportsmen, Great Falls Archers, Missouri River Fly Fishers, Montana Trout Unlimited, National Wildlife Federation and Montana Wildlife Federation (MWF) sponsored the forum in Great Falls. Hellgate Hunters and Anglers, Blackfoot Chapter of TU, Bitterroot Chapter of TU, Montana TU, National Wildlife Federation and MWF sponsored the forum in Missoula.

Candidates from all political parties were invited to the forums. Most candidates showed a good understanding of public access issues related to bridge access and the loss of traditional access to private lands due to changing landownership and uses. Responses to energy development discussions explored the potential loss of our hunting and fishing heritage for some short term gains typical of here today, gone tomorrow type of oil and gas developments.

MWF teamed up with its affiliate clubs and other groups to ensure good hunter and angler turn-out and to offer candidates equal opportunities to share their thoughts with sportsmen and sportswomen.