1. What is your view of the 2004 Attorney General Opinion regarding access to streams from county road bridges ?
I believe the Attorney General was correct in his opinion regarding access to streams from county road bridges. It seems to be very well-thought out and inclusive. My hope is that we can incorporate these opinions into legislation.
2. In your opinion are public property rights important - often as important as private property rights?
I do believe public property rights are very important. We as a nation cherish our public lands and waters and it is important that we protect our rights to use and enjoy them. We must respect and honor the rights of the people with regard to public lands and waters.
3. Do you believe the state should be allowed to acquire water rights sufficient to allow major streams to function as natural aquatic systems?
In my opinion, it is extremely important that the state be allowed to acquire water rights sufficient to allow major streams to function as natural aquatic systems. In all the actions that we as a society undertake, we must keep the future in mind. We must insure that our environment be protected in order that our descendants will have the same opportunities on this planet that we do.
4. Are you familiar with and do you support the Public Trust Doctrine?
I understand that the Public Trust Doctrine guarantees that people in general are the sovereigns.It is also important that we remember that wildlife existed long before people inhabited this land. We as a people, not individuals, have the responsibility to exercise control of our public environment. Various court rulings over the years have upheld these principles. It is our responsibility to honor and uphold these rulings.
5. Should we consider the sale of water in Montana’s rivers to be moved out of state?
We should not consider the sale of our water to out of state interests. With the continuing change in our environment and our increasing population, it is imperative that we use and manage our water in a way that will be in the best interests of Montanans now and in the future.
6. Should the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks remain the sole decision maker for the allocation of licenses and permits that determine who may legally hunt and harvest Montana wildlife ?
The legislature, representing the people, make decisions relating to the allocation of licenses and permits and these decisions are carried out by the the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks. This is a democratic process and I believe it works well. I do not see any need for change.
7. What should be done to reduce elk populations that exceed optimum numbers as defined in current management plans?
I believe this situation should be handled through procedures already in place. It may be prudent to work for increased access and also to increase the number of draws for permits.
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