The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has announced a plan to establish a massive 5.8 million-acre conservation area in Southwest Montana, covering 9,000 square miles. This proposal, part of President Biden's 30x30 plan to conserve 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030, includes a mix of government-owned and private land and is centered around the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.
If approved, this plan could set a precedent for increased federal control over private lands in other states, potentially limiting property owner rights, according to American Stewards of Liberty (ASL). The Missouri Headwaters Conservation Area, as it is called, comprises 3,742,220 acres of government-owned land and 2,050,420 acres of private land. Notably, the State of Montana's 500,000 acres in the area were not informed of the plan.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service aims to acquire 250,000 acres of private land through "voluntary" conservation easements. This has raised concerns about property rights and control. The plan relies on Land and Water Conservation Funds, which property rights advocates oppose. The Service intends to create a large protected area, connecting different ecosystems, but the public and local representatives have limited say in the designation process. There are concerns about adverse economic effects on local governments due to reduced tax revenue.
Environmental groups have partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for this plan, and a comment period is open until November 27th. However, there are concerns about the lack of disclosure on environmental studies and potential restrictions on mineral exploration. Additionally, this conservation area might facilitate the creation of a "Natural Asset Company," allowing international investors and countries to profit from natural resource rights.
While the Service presents this plan as a way to protect ecosystems and wildlife corridors, ASL argues that its permanent designation raises concerns about the power of the administrative state over local communities and landowners. The fate of this proposal and its potential impact on private land rights in Montana will be closely watched.
