WASHINGTON, D.C. - Montana's Congressman, Denny Rehberg, is asking the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for more time for Montana's producers and other stakeholders to comment on the Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge (NWR).

"The release of the CCP in mid-September came at a time when ag producers in eastern Montana were spending long hours tending to their farms and ranches," said Rehberg, a member of the House Western Caucus. "This proposal represents a long-term management plan, and I want to make sure those most affected by it have every opportunity to examine the document and have their concerns heard."

The CCP directs management of the 1.1-million acre refuge surrounding Fort Peck Reservoir.  It's a 15-year plan that addresses grazing, wildlife, conservation and recreation programs. The draft contains four alternatives, including a preferred alternative, which is the result of a three-year scoping process.  The original 60-day comment period is set to expire November 16.  Rehberg is requesting the comment period be extended an additional 60 days.

"These producers, many of whom graze cattle on the refuge, have been unable to comment, despite being among those most affected by the plan," said Rehberg, in a letter to Laurie Shannon, the refuge's planning team leader. "It's also become apparent that many stakeholders haven't received their requested copies of the document.  As a result, many in the region have contacted my office requesting an extension of the comment period, which would allow for a greater degree of public input.

Letter:

Laurie Shannon
Planning Team Leader
Charles M. Russell NWR
P.O. Box 25486
Denver, CO 80225-0486

Dear Ms. Shannon:

I'm writing to request a 60-day extension of the comment period pertaining to the draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) of the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge.

The draft, and subsequent comment period, was released during a critical period for agricultural producers in the region.  At this time, many affected stakeholders were in the midst of harvesting, seeding, haying and transferring cattle to fall pastures.  These producers, many of whom graze cattle on the refuge, have been unable to comment, despite being among those most affected by the plan.  It's also become apparent that many stakeholders haven't received their requested copies of the document.  As a result, many in the region have contacted my office requesting an extension of the comment period, which would allow for a greater degree of public input.

When it comes to public lands in Montana, we have a long-standing tradition of working together to develop consensus-based solutions.  As such, I appreciate your consideration of this request, and please don't hesitate to contact my office if I can be of further assistance.

Sincerely,