Tester response to Yellowstone’s new winter use proposals

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Senator Jon Tester released the following statement in response to today’s release of six new proposals for winter use in Yellowstone National Park:

“Two of these proposals aren’t going to fly in my book because, like most Montanans, I believe snowmobiles and snow coaches have an important place in Yellowstone.  Montana’s economy relies heavily on visitors who come from all over the world to experience our first national park.  Now it’s a matter of finding the right balance that works for both Montana and Yellowstone, and I look forward to hearing what Montanans have to say.”

The six new proposals for winter use in Yellowstone National Park are:

• Ban snowmobiles and snowcoaches from Yellowstone altogether;
• Transition to snowcoaches only, phasing out snowmobile use in Yellowstone beginning in 2014;
• Continue current snow vehicle use (all machines must currently be guided and run with best available technology);
• Return to 2004 vehicle limits, resulting in an increase in the number of snow vehicles;
• Allow snowmobile, snowcoach, and regular vehicles on plowed roads;
• Allow snow vehicles with varying times, places and levels.

The National Park Service will accept public comment on these six proposals in early 2011.