Protect our forests
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I signed an executive order forming the Montana Forest Action Advisory Council, a statewide collaborative group charged with updating the Montana Forest Action Plan.
We can and we must work together for the well being of our forests and to reduce wildland fire risk. I’m confident that through this council and new partnerships we can protect our outdoor recreation economy, wildlife and fisheries habitat, drinking water and soil health, all while treating more acres and investing in priority forest areas around the state.
As part of my Forests in Focus 2.0, the Council will examine current and anticipated conditions and trends affecting all forested lands in Montana. This will be done through a scientifically rigorous process and will highlight the ongoing collaborative efforts from our diverse group of stakeholders.
The council’s work will identify priority areas for treatment and develop collective solutions to accomplish forest restoration through my Forests in Focus Initiative. This effort offers a unique opportunity for the State of Montana to engage a diverse group of partners, including the U.S. Forest Service.
Updating our Montana Forest Action Plan is important for the continued work in our forests and represents an allhands, all-lands approach to protecting resources and our outdoors heritage.
Throughout the coming year, the Montana Forest Action Advisory Council will meet across the state, holding public meetings to support and facilitate public input and ideas to update the Montana Forest Action Plan. The original plan was completed in 2010 and this council will present a plan for approval in 2020. I encourage you to stay involved in the process.
I understand what forest management and conservation means to our communities in Montana. I will continue to lead at the state level to maintain healthy forests and mitigate fire risk in our state. Thanks again for your support.
