Trailhead Tour Highlights Climate Impacts to Montana Public Lands

Environment Montana

Glacier National Park – This Friday, Environment Montana kicks off a statewide “Trailhead Tour” at Logan Pass in Glacier National Park. The group hopes to raise awareness about the impacts of climate change on Montana’s public lands.

 “A love for public lands is something that really unites all Montanans,” said Environment Montana director Skye Borden. “Unfortunately, climate change is already threatening these special places, and it’s hurting our use and enjoyment of them too.”

Climate change reduces snowpack and stream flows, causes habitat loss, and worsens wildfire season. This causes problems for outdoor recreation, including shortened ski seasons, longer fishing restrictions, fewer big game kills, and fewer days with clear summer skies.

According to Environment Montana, the Trump administration’s proposed budget is likely to make these problems even worse.

 “The EPA’s research and clean air regulatory programs are our greatest line of defense against climate change, but President Trump’s budget threatens to slash these programs in half,” said Skye Borden. “Senator Tester and Senator Daines need to stand up to this disastrous budget and protect our public lands from climate change.”  

During the tour, the group plans to recruit hikers, bikers, anglers, and other outdoor enthusiasts to send postcards asking the senators to fund climate change programs.

They’re also calling on Montanans to participate in a summer social media contest, #ProtectMT. The contest gives those who love Montana’s outdoors the opportunity to win a $500 gift card to Patagonia simply by taking a picture of themselves out enjoying Montana’s many outdoor activities and calling attention to the risks from climate change.  They are entered by posting the image to Facebook and/or Instagram, using the hashtag #ProtectMT and tagging @cleanairmontana.  The entry with the most likes and reactions wins.