Governor Steve Bullock appointed two land trust voices – Mark Aagenes of The Nature Conservancy of Montana and Blake Henning of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation – to the Montana Forest Action Advisory Council. The Council, created through Executive Order, is charged with updating the Montana Forest Action Plan to address long-term efforts to conserve working forest lands, protect forests from harm, and enhance public benefits from forests throughout the state. “We can and we must work together for the well-being of our forests and to reduce wildland fire risk,“ said Governor Bullock. “I’m confident that through these new partnerships we can protect our outdoor recreational opportunities, wildlife and fisheries habitat for a diverse range of species, drinking water supplies and soil health, all while treating more acres on the ground and investing in priority areas around the state.” Governor Bullock called on the Council to examine current conditions and trends affecting all forested lands in Montana using a data-derived and scientifically rigorous process, ensure the plan does not counter or conflict with existing land management plans, and amplify ongoing collaborative efforts that bring together stakeholders representing diverse perspectives.
