Oppose DNRC land banking sale of 440 acres near Woodsbay

As a Montanan who enjoys being able to ride horses from the Bear Dance trailhead on Hwy 35 to Estes Lake, and back home, I am strongly opposed to the DNRC proposal to sell the 440 acre parcel of State Land that includes this wonderful lake and recreation opportunity. These 440 acres are adjacent to 640 acres of Forest Service land which they have designated as a Natural Research Area. Together these acres provide habitat and a critical corridor for elk, deer, bear, (grizzly & black) lynx, mountain lion, coyote, snowshoe hare, and birds of many species. There is an ongoing research study of peregrine falcons near the area.

There are a number of alternatives to the sale of these acres that would result in preserving this special area for the use and enjoyment of the public which I support. Under the provisions of the Montana Natural Areas Act of 1974 this parcel could be declared a “Natural Area” by either the State Land Board or the State Legislature. There is also a possibility for a land swap with the U.S. Forest Service. Either of these alternatives would be better than losing the land to private development.

For more information: contact Edd Blackler blackler@acrossmontana.net or 837-5196

Consider Edd Blackler for House District Nine

During an election season, candidates try to convince us that they have our best interests at heart. Suddenly, they claim to be “involved” in the district they wish to represent.

Not so with Edd Blackler. From the time he came to the district thirty years ago, he has been deeply and sincerely involved with his community. He worked as a vocal teacher in the Bigfork School System. He has been a volunteer fireman, a coach, a member of Kiwanis, a community choir director, conducting the Community Christmas Carol singing in Sliter Park for many years.

He worked with the Bigfork Development Company, the Back Country Horsemen, the Sliter Park Committee, and the Bigfork Development Company. He started a Bigfork Men’s Basketball league and was one of the original Bigfork Elves who conceived the idea of decorating the Village each year at Christmas time. He began taking part in the Bigfork Summer Playhouse as far back as 1966.

Edd has been truly involved with the people of his district. He listens to us and understands our needs and concerns. He is the kind of person we want to represent us. He is one of us.

Vote for Edd and we will have true representation in Helena.

Jackie Ladner, Polson MT.