I think the initial "WTF" reaction is justified, as it is another example of how this administration is trying to steer the ship and what the end goal(s) are.
When you roll up all of the commission members, take a second to review their so-called "experience" and past performance, and ask yourself how this group is truly in the best interest of MT wildlife and management.
Case in point:
Appointments must be made without regard to political affiliation and must be made solely for the wise management of fish, wildlife, and related recreational resources of this state. A person may not be appointed to the commission unless the person is informed or interested and experienced in the subject of fish, wildlife, and recreation and the requirements for the conservation and protection of fish, wildlife, and recreational resources.
A few bits of info on a few of our illustrious Commission members:
Cebull has donated more than $13,000 to Gianforte’s campaigns between 2017 and 2020, according to contribution records on
followthemoney.org. Cebull also has
served on the Montana Board of Outfitters and on the board and as president of the Montana Outfitters and Guides Association, which has occasionally drawn the anger of resident sportsmen for supporting policies that “privatize Montana’s wildlife.”
In 2008, he founded Nance Resources, Inc., an oil and gas exploration and production company. In 2011, he also headed up GTUIT, a company operating out of Arnegard, N.D., that specializes in capturing and processing flare gas, such as methane, from fracking wells.
Cebull is a
board member and former president of the Montana Petroleum Association and regional representative of the Independent Petroleum Association of America.
He is a former president and sits on the board of the Montana chapter of Safari Club International, a Washington, D.C.,-based hunting organization.
KC Walsh donated $7,060 between 2017 and 2019. Walsh, president of Simms Fishing Products in Bozeman, will replace Richard Stuker in District 3, which encompasses north-central Montana. Although Bozeman isn’t in north-central Montana, Walsh is reported to own a ranch on the North Fork of the Musselshell River. Walsh sits on the board of Montana Trout Unlimited but also on the board of the Bozeman-based
Property and Environment Research Center, which emphasizes property rights and capitalism when it comes to conservation.
Tabor donated $710 to Gianforte, and his wife, Joanne, donated $540 in June 2020. Hmmm....I am seeing a trend here....
Collectively, this is bad news for Montana's wildlife, hunting/fishing/access and ongoing habitat management. This is a group that will NOT join the DIY hunter/angler "at the table" and look for solutions over the long haul. I will buy the beer if I am wrong.
Adding insult to injury, we have all of this great news to deal with in upcoming seasons:
https://outsidebozeman.com/culture/the-new-west/progress-or-paradox
