Grateful for Montana — and some courageous politicians

The Big Hole River, visible from Burma Road between Twin Bridges and Glen on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025. (Jordan Hansen / Daily Montanan)

As Thanksgiving approaches, Montanans share a common feeling: gratitude for living in such a remarkable state. While ecosystems and native species disappear around the world, Montanas mountains, plains, forests, and rivers continue to shelter nearly all the fish, wildlife, and plants that were present when Lewis and Clark explored the region over two centuries ago. In comparison to the increasingly degraded landscapes elsewhere, this is nothing short of extraordinary and deserving of sincere thanks.

Montanas blessings, however, extend beyond its scenery. Unlike much of the nation, where political division and social conflict are often engineered, Montanans maintain a sense of community. Harsh winds, heavy rains, freezing temperatures, and sudden snowstorms demand cooperation. Here, people help each other without asking about political affiliation, whether its rescuing someone from a ditch, hauling an elk, or towing a disabled boat. This practical generosity, despite differing opinions, unites residents under the Big Sky.

Gratitude, though, carries with it a duty. Montanans are stewards of a landscape that must be preserved and restored for future generations. Public policy and the decisions of elected officials play a vital role in this effort. Montanas early years were marked by relentless exploitation cattle, mining, logging, and railroads left lasting scars. Yet, lessons learned from unregulated development shaped protections enshrined in the state Constitution, including the right to a clean and healthful environment and the requirement to reclaim lands affected by resource extraction.

The foresight of past leaders ensured that wilderness remains, along with thriving wildlife, fisheries, and native plants. Wild and scenic rivers persist, and national parks continue to inspire admiration worldwide. These achievements were not accidental; they required politicians willing to challenge powerful economic interests and prioritize long-term conservation over short-term profit.

Today, Montana faces new threats from wealthy developers and corporate interests seeking to exploit the states remaining natural treasures. Protecting these resources demands courage from contemporary leaders who can resist pressure and put the environment and residents first. The natural wonders preserved by previous generations deserve defenders willing to declare, Montana is not for sale. Future Montanans will remember their commitment with gratitude.

Montana's Future: A Call for Stewardship

As we reflect on the beauty and bounty of Montana, it is important to recognize that the state’s remarkable landscapes and ecosystems are not guaranteed to remain unchanged. The work of past generations in preserving these resources should not be taken for granted. While Montana’s environment stands out as a model of conservation, the pressures from development and commercial exploitation continue to grow. Developers with deep pockets and corporate interests are eyeing the state’s remaining natural treasures, which poses a significant challenge for today's policymakers.

The preservation of Montana’s wilderness, rivers, and wildlife was not a result of accidental luck, but rather the foresight and commitment of past leaders who prioritized long-term environmental health over short-term economic gain. These leaders understood that future generations would be the true beneficiaries of such efforts. Today, it is crucial for current lawmakers to stand firm in defending these values, resisting the temptation to sell out to powerful external interests. The challenge now lies in ensuring that Montana’s wild places are not subjected to the same exploitation that marked the state's early years.

As Montanans, we hold a shared responsibility to protect our state's unparalleled beauty. But this responsibility extends beyond simply admiring the landscape — it requires action. Whether through public policy, legislative advocacy, or active community involvement, each of us must contribute to the ongoing efforts to safeguard Montana’s natural heritage. This stewardship is a privilege, one that will have lasting consequences for the generations that follow.

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• Thankful for Montana — and a few brave politicians