Gravel Pit on Section 22 and DEQ
As we prepare to fend off another industrial proposal for Section 22, the core issue remains unchanged: these rare, intact perennial grasslands are vital wildlife habitat and a cherished public resource. Transforming this accessible landscape into an industrial gravel pit is fundamentally inappropriate for a place so central to our community and the health of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
The map below illustrates why Section 22 is such a high-priority area for conservation. The light blue shading identifies core sagebrush habitat growth opportunities, which directly surround the state land. This area is anchored by a vast network of light green (private conservation easements) and darker green (U.S. Forest Service lands), creating a seamless corridor for wildlife.
Map of FWP 2020 Sagebrush Biome IAG Framework & Park County Ownership
Crucially, this map highlights that Section 22 is a healthy, intact system and a low-threat area for invasive species. In other words, this is a large, connected, and thriving perennial grassland system that serves as a vital bridge between permanently conserved lands and wild habitats managed specifically for the health of our local herds and ecosystems.
Legislative changes, specifically HB 599, have made industrialization easier by dismantling environmental reviews and making it harder for local communities to have a seat at the table. To learn more and help us protect these public lands, please join us for two engagement opportunities on March 4th and March 19th.
1. Virtual Community Conversation: HB 599 & The Clearwater Fight
When: Wednesday, March 4th | 12:00 PM (Zoom)
Where: Zoom Registration Link
Join us for a briefing on how HB 599 has streamlined industrial permitting by reducing environmental reviews and limiting public hearings. Anne Hedges with the Montana Environmental Information Center (MEIC) will discuss how these legislative shifts make it harder for communities to protect sites like Section 22.
We will also be joined by Gayla Nicholson of Protect the Clearwater, who will share insights from her community’s recent fight to protect state lands along the Clearwater River. As the Section 22 lease may soon appear on the Land Board agenda, understanding these new rules and hearing from those on the front lines is essential to our strategy.
2. In-Person Section 22 Public Comment Session
When: Thursday, March 19th | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Where: Lincoln School, Room #305
Join PCEC and your neighbors to review updated maps and draft impactful comments for the open DNRC public comment period regarding Section 22. We will focus on how this project impacts wildlife, public access, neighbors, and local livelihoods. We need to help the DNRC and Land Board understand that Section 22 is a community treasure and asset, not just a resource for gravel.
THIS WEEK: MEPA Rules Under Review
Beyond Section 22, the Montana Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) rules—which haven't been updated in 15 years—are currently being revised following the 2025 Legislative Session. This is a rare chance to provide stakeholder input before the official rulemaking begins.
The DEQ is hosting an information session on February 26th from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM. PCEC staff will be attending and will report back, but we encourage those available to participate directly.
When: Feb 26, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Zoom Registration Link
Thanks for your continued support and dedication to Park County and our public lands. We look forward to seeing you soon.