Tester, Daines Pass Legislation through Senate to Protect East Rosebud Creek

Delegation Pushes Bill Forward for Montana’s First ‘Wild and Scenic’ Designation in Over 30 years

(U.S. Senate) – U.S. Senators Jon Tester and Steve Daines today announced that their bipartisan legislation to protect the East Rosebud Creek for future generations has cleared the Senate.

The Senators’ bill will protect 20 miles of creek in south-central Montana as part of the Wild and Scenic River System.

“This is a historic day for the next generation of Montanans,” said Tester. “This bipartisan bill will protect a true treasure and ensure our kids and grandkids can enjoy the wonders of East Rosebud Creek for years to come.”

“East Rosebud Creek is a place where families fish, hike, and take in Montana views,” said Daines. “It is one of Montana’s – and our country’s – natural treasures and it must be preserved for our grandchildren and future generations to enjoy.”

East Rosebud Creek originates in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and flows out to the prairie where it joins the Yellowstone River just west of Columbus. No private land will be impacted by this legislation.

“We greatly appreciate Senator Tester’s and Senator Daines’ leadership and determination to get the East Rosebud protection bill approved by the US Senate,” said Frank Annighofer with Friends of East Rosebud. “East Rosebud is a special place for the families who live here, some for many generations. It’s stunning beauty attracts visitors from all over the world, yielding significant economic value to surrounding communities and to our State. This bill when signed into law will ensure that it stays that way for generations to come.”

Congressman Gianforte has introduced companion legislation in the House.

“The Senate’s action is a good first step in protecting East Rosebud Creek. Conserving the area will strengthen our economy, protect our way of life, and fulfill the clear wishes of the community,” Gianforte said. “I will continue working to move the bill forward in the House.”

In 1968, Congress passed the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to preserve rivers with cultural and recreational value in their free-flowing condition for present and future generations. Less than one-half of one percent of Montana’s approximately 170,000 miles of river is designated as “wild and scenic.”