Conservation Working Group Priorities

Conservation Working Group Priorities

By Sarah Cobler, MCV Program Director

MCV determines its legislative priorities in a collaborative working group process, led by the state’s diverse conservation policy experts. Groups work together prior to the legislative session to identify common legislative opportunities to protect Montana’s outdoor heritage.

These shared legislative priorities promote a vibrant and growing green economy, and protect the fresh water resources that define the state. Now is the time to create new jobs, build public infrastructure and promote economic stimulus that drives us toward healthier, more efficient and more livable communities.

The working group includes the Alternative Energy Resources Organization (AERO), Clark Fork Coalition, Greater Yellowstone Coalition, Montana Audubon, Montana Conservation Voters, Montana Environmental Information Center (MEIC), Montana Public Interest Research Group (MontPIRG), Montana Sierra Club, Montana Trout Unlimited, Smart Growth Coalition, Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC), National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT), National Wildlife Federation, Northern Plains Resource Council, and the Policy Institute.2009 Conservation Priorities

• Energy Efficiency in Montana Schools. Montana public schools spend a significant amount of money (second largest line item) on energy costs. This bill establishes necessary resources for public schools to improve energy efficiency in their facilities, providing funding for efficiency improvements along with the expertise to plan and implement the improvements. It helps schools save money by reducing their energy bills, creates good paying jobs, and reduces global warming pollution. Lead group is the Northern Plains Resource Council, Matt Leow, lobbyist.

• Energy Efficiency Standard. An Energy Efficiency Standard for Utilities requires utilities to increase efforts to improve energy efficiency. It would save ratepayers money on their utility bills, decrease the demand utility services, help develop green jobs and decrease global warming pollution. Lead group is Montana Environmental Information Center, Anne Hedges, lobbyist.
• Big Sky Rivers Act. This bill requires new homes and commercial buildings to be set back at least 250 ft from the ordinary high water mark on up to 12 legacy rivers, to protect water quality and private property. Additionally, the legislation will outline a process that local governments can use—at the local government level—to protect other rivers and/or streams. Lobby led by Janet Ellis with Montana Audubon.
• Protect Montana’s Bedrock Environmental Laws. Maintain current environmental protections afforded by Montana statute and the constitution.