Measurable progress on access in the Crazies – The Livingston Enterprise

Editor:

I am writing to respond to Dale Sextons column, Measurable progress on access in Crazies, published Feb. 4 in The Enterprise.

The progress made by the Forest Service correlates with the federal lawsuit filed by plaintiffs Friends of the Crazy Mountains, Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Enhancing Montanas Wildlife and Habitat, and Skyline Sportsmen Association. After this coalition sued in May 2019 against the Forest Service for failing to protect and defend public access rights in the Crazies, the agencys conduct changed and it took action. By way of example: Sept. 2019, Forest Service relinquishes easement interests on westside; Oct. 2019, Forest Service releases south-side land exchange for public scoping; Sept. 2020, Forest Service announces new easement crossing on northeast-side; and July 2021, Colorado-based Western Land Group submits eastside proposal to the Forest Service. This timeline implies the public interest litigation prompted the Forest Service, and other required parties, to seek resolution before the federal court ruled on the merits of the lawsuit. Keep in mind these access disputes festered and languished for decades.

On Jan. 18, U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy Cavan heard oral argument and asked questions on the murky access issues on the west and east sides. Through a declaratory judgment, the federal court can remedy any harm that may have been done to the public by the Forest Service and limit future harm. Judge Cavans ruling will also become part of a public setting the record straight. This will be more measurable progress as well because the whole of what the public has been told at this point is according to hearsay.

Yes, there is measurable progress on access in Crazies. We can thank public interest litigation for what were witnessing in the range. Lets give credit where its due.

Sheila Royston

Wilsall

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Measurable progress on access in the Crazies - The Livingston Enterprise