While we all love group rides and dig days, a huge percentage of our volunteer time goes toward advocating for your access. With the state legislature in session, we have been very busy over the past few months. Now, as things are winding down, we’re calling on you to take action to protect and enhance our mountain-bike access.

There are a variety of bills coming up for consideration in the Montana State Senate this week that could greatly affect mountain bikers, starting with measures to reverse the will of the voters. Last November, voters overwhelmingly approved ballot initiative I-190, which detailed the recreational marijuana program and how this new tax revenue should be spent. Now, there are four bills making their way through the legislature that would re-allocate these funds.

To ensure tax revenues from I-190 are directed toward public lands, conservation, and recreation, contact state representatives today using this Backcountry Hunters and Anglers form. Time is of the essence as these bills are being heard this week. Advocate for access by contacting your Senator to oppose these bills.

Additionally, SB 354 is back in front of lawmakers this week. This bill intends to keep the public from using easements to get to public land. Many of our favorite rides—think Leverich, Stone Creek, South Cottonwood—are accessed by starting on the highway, going down a county road, then crossing private land through an easement to get to the public boundary. Many of these could be blocked by private landowners if this bill passes. Ask your senator to oppose this bill too!