I already got a response back from John Tester and Max Baucus.
Canned responses nontheless, but I'll post them.
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Dear Scott:
Thank you for taking the time to contact me about the Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act.
Montana is blessed to have over 3.5 million acres designated as wilderness. When Congress looks at additional wilderness designation we need to keep in mind that while these areas are federal assets for all Americans -- their management directly affects local communities and their input into the process should carry weight.
The Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act is an ambitious approach to dedicate over 23 million acres of land. I have concerns with such an act because it does not take into account the unique management needs of these individual forests. I will continue to work with local communities, conservationists, farmers, ranchers, and timber and mining interests to see how we can reach a balance on our public lands. Protecting Montana's wild places through responsible management plans for future generations to enjoy is one of my top priorities. As this issue comes before the Senate or any committee that I am a member of, be assured that I will keep your views in mind.
I appreciate the time that you have taken to be involved and informed about this matter. Please do not hesitate to contact me again in the future if I can be of further assistance.
Sincerely,
Jon Tester
United States Senator
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Dear Scott,
Thank you for contacting me with your concerns about the Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act. It is good to hear from you.
As Montanans, we are privileged to enjoy thousands of acres of public lands. We hunt and fish. We take our children hiking and camping. It is important that measures we take to protect our pristine lands take into consideration our recreational heritage.
Movements to designate new wilderness areas should be locally driven, and have widespread local support. Montanans take pride in their stewardship of public lands, and should be included as collaborators in any discussion about their public lands. These areas are critically important to local and state economies, and economic development components should be included in wilderness legislation.
It pretty much comes down to the fact that most people want to permanently protect some areas to hunt, fish and recreate. Rest assured that I will carefully examine any proposal which affects public lands in Montana. Thanks again for getting in touch. Feel free to contact me if you have any additional questions or concerns.
With best personal regards, I am
Senator Max Baucus