[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 160 (Thursday, November 13, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2361]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      MOVING FORWARD FOR MONTANANS

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RICK HILL

                               of montana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 13, 1997

  Mr. HILL. Mr. Speaker, today I join with my Montana colleague, U.S. 
Senator Conrad Burns, in introducing much needed legislation which will 
help complete the Gallatin Land Consolidation Act. As Congress 
completes its business in the last hours of this session, it is 
important to let Montanans know that its congressional delegation is 
committed to resolving this situation.
  The proposed land exchange agreement between Big Sky Lumber and the 
U.S. Forest Service is a well-intentioned proposal that I support. 
However, like all general agreements, there are always specific 
concerns to address. As these issues remain pending, this legislation 
will show that Congress is committed to completing the exchange and 
eliminating the uncertainties that Big Sky Lumber, other businesses, 
and many landowners may have.
  For example, the protection of the Taylors Fork is extremely 
important since it provides a critical migration corridor for wildlife. 
Many of the area's landowners face uncertain futures and deserve to 
know that the Montana delegation will act on their behalf to complete 
the exchange. Our legislation moves forward on meeting landowner's 
goals and protecting the environment. Other issues that need 
resolution, such as access concerns in the Bridger-Bangtail area and 
small business timber set asides, will also be advanced by this 
legislation.
  Mr. Speaker, one major difference in my legislation is a provision 
guaranteeing that any land which will be exchanged to the Federal 
Government must continue to maintain and maximize historical 
recreational access and use. This is a very important item that I will 
continue to champion for Montanans as this process moves forward.
  This bill provides the initial legislative phase for eventual 
completion of the Gallatin Land Consolidation Act. There are many 
details that need to be included, but this legislation will hopefully 
satisfy the December 31 deadline under the current option. Moreover, 
this bill will present a forum for Montanans to begin to comment on the 
details of the package.
  Mr. Speaker, this is important to my home State of Montana. I look 
forward to moving ahead with the rest of the Montana delegation in 
completing the exchange in the next session of Congress.

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