Disappointed in Daines' actions on conservation fund

My name is Courtney VonLindern, a born and raised Montanan from Whitefish. Like many Montanans, I’ve been disappointed by Sen. Steve Daines’ going back on his promises and failing to stand up for Montana interests, especially when he failed to fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund in full. I have decided to submit this letter to the editor to hold Daines accountable, and help make others aware of this issue.

As a born and raised Montanan, I’ve been taught the value of upholding promises. Contrary to this way of life, Sen. Steve Daines is breaking his promises to Montanans. Despite previously pledging his complete support for achieving full funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund, Senator Daines showed his true colors when he said he would be willing to settle for only two-thirds of the amount needed. LWCF is a program that has bipartisan support and is something that Montanans have been vocally supportive of. It’s provided fishing access sites, parks, and other outdoor recreation opportunities across the state. By going back on his promise, Senator Daines is putting future public access projects at risk.

LWCF has been in place and providing recreation opportunities to Montanans for decades and, most importantly, doesn’t touch a penny of our taxpayer dollars. It’s funded by offshore oil and gas royalties — unless that funding is diverted for other purposes. This fund has proven time and time again to be a vital tool for Montana’s outdoor heritage and access to our public lands. Full funding is necessary to keep this LWCF thriving and two-thirds isn’t what we were promised. Senator Daines needs to stick to his word.

Courtney VonLindern, Missoula