Outdated Federal Oil And Gas Leasing Programs Affect Public Lands

Dear Editor,

Montana's public lands are central to our way of life and our outdoor businesses, but outdated federal oil and gas leasing programs have long exploited these landscapes, harming our communities and economies. Thankfully, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) recently proposed reforms to improve this broken system, ensuring a balanced approach to our public lands' use and providing taxpayers a fair return.

The BLM's reforms balance the many uses of our public lands and prioritize recreation, wildlife habitat, and cultural resources over aggressive oil and gas development. Importantly, the reforms demand oil and gas companies - not taxpayers - bear financial responsibility for their environmental impact. Current low rates have resulted in numerous abandoned wells polluting our landscapes. The new policies ensure these companies, not Montanans, bear the cleanup costs. Furthermore, updated royalty and rental rates guarantee Montana taxpayers their due return.

Recent polls show overwhelming support: 96 percent of Montanans believe oil and gas companies (not taxpayers) should cover cleanup and restoration post-development, and 99 percent of over 260,000 comments to the BLM endorsed these reforms.

It's imperative the BLM finalizes these reforms swiftly. Montana's public lands deserve comprehensive management that appreciates all they offer, beyond just oil and gas.

Sincerely,

Mandela Van Eeden

Montana Wildlife Federation

Missoula, Mont.