Hunters to Set up Elk Camp on Capitol Lawn
Friday, September 26, 2014
HELENA, Mont. - Several hundred are expected on the State Capitol lawn tomorrow to set up an elk camp. It's part of a rally for National Hunting and Fishing Day, with participants arriving via bus from all around the state. Jim Posewitz with Helena Hunters and Anglers has written extensively about the history of public lands in the West, and says the rally messages will carry strong objections to state and national proposals to transfer those lands to states, or the private sector.
"People who live in the vicinity of these public lands value them highly and they do not want to see them disposed of," Posewitz says.
A measure to consider a state takeover of federal lands in Montana, says Posewitz, was recently removed from an interim legislative council report.
Posewitz's study of public-lands history shows private interests have attempted to take those lands since the 19th century, and he says it's the duty of those who cherish the open spaces, wildlife and access to be vigilant.
"As hunters and fishermen, it's the estate of hope," says Posewitz. "It's on that estate where the restoration of wildlife began and has become a very important component of the American culture."
Posewitz adds, last April, the U.S. House approved a budget proposing to sell off public lands saying the money would be used to reduce debt.
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