U.S. Senator Steve Daines announced that the “Montana Sportsmen Conservation Act” has passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, moving closer to becoming law.
“As a lifelong sportsman, increasing access to Montana’s beautiful public lands is one of my top priorities. This bill is common sense: it unlocks land that’s overdue for release from restrictive Wilderness Study Area status to increase access for outdoor recreation, forest management, and wildfire mitigation. I am glad to see it pass committee and I’ll keep fighting to get it across the finish line,” said Daines.
The legislation was introduced by Daines in December 2025. The bill would change the management of three Wilderness Study Areas (WSA) in Montana: Middle Fork Judith WSA, Hoodoo Mountain WSA, and Wales Creek WSA. These areas are recommended for release by their respective agency’s land and resource management plan revisions. The change would allow more flexibility for land managers in addressing wildfire risk, restoring wildlife habitat, and improving access for sportsmen.
Daines grew up in Bozeman, Montana as a fifth-generation Montanan and attended public schools there according to his official website. He earned a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering from Montana State University. Daines serves as U.S. Senator representing Montana and engages in public service through constituent assistance and Senate committee work. His office provides services such as help with federal agencies and veterans resources. He has received awards from the Congressional Management Foundation recognizing transparency and staff support.
