Board actions questioned

“Why?!” That was what was shouted out by someone on the Board when the motion was made to remove the Associate Supervisors from the Green Mountain Conservation Board (GMCD) last week.

Many may not be aware of the role of GMCD. This elected board serves in coordination with affiliated resource management agencies with a “…mission to champion balanced conservation solutions and partner with private landowners to keep our land and water healthy for the next generation… All 58 [Montana] conservation districts administer stream (310) permitting in their area. Many conservation districts are also involved with watershed planning, aquatic invasive species prevention, pollinator habitat, soil health programming, and more.” (MACD web site)

At their monthly meetings, GMCD Board members along with representatives from NWE, Avista, NRCS, FWS, Lower Clark Fork Watershed Group and others review landowner permitting (310s) that affect stream banks in addition to determining various programs of educational outreach. Conservation Districts are funded by county mill levies, Montana Association of Conservation Districts grants, as well as various grants from a variety of sources. Their role must follow a wide-variety of Montana state laws; MACD has an advisory role in that legislative connection.

The ousted slate of 3 Associate Supervisors had all been elected Supervisors themselves. They carry with them the knowledge and history of previous experiences as well as an understanding of Montana’s Conservation Laws. They have reviewed many 310 applications and know of the strengths and weaknesses (and even illegalities) of some proposals. They have relationships with and an understanding of the roles of the various affiliated resource organizations. They have been involved in educational outreach to schools and the community. They had been involved in watershed restoration projects. They are aware of the many services and equipment available to area ranchers, farmers, and landowners. They have the knowledge and history of abatement attempts for various aquatic and terrestrial invasive species. They know of fish management programs to protect Montana’s native bull and cut-throat trout. So why dismiss and disrespect the engagement these 3 Associates by severing those ties?

The 3 newly elected Supervisors (in office since January, 2023 with no previous experience connected with GMCD) gave no real response to that question of “Why?” from the Supervisor of over 30 years whose father was also a Supervisor. The 3 justified their collaborated vote by saying they were removing them because they were appointed by a previous Board. The 3 – 2 vote felt like a slap in the face to those who have been willing to continue their service with their knowledge and experience. Indeed, how sad and even mean-spirited to sever a relationship that could be called upon to apply to present and future decisions.

Mindy Ferrell,

Trout Creek