Simpson Joins Western Caucus Members Affirm Commitment to Conservation, Demand Answers on Biden Initiative

Washington, D.C.- Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson joined Chairmen Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Steven Daines (R-MT) and other members of the Congressional and Senate Western Caucuses in sending a letter to President Biden asking important clarifying questions about the Biden Administration’s Executive Order establishing a directive to put restrictions on at least 30% of lands and waters by 2030 (30 by 30).

“Idaho depends on the sustainable multiple-use management of our lands and waters to support our economy and meet our needs,” said Simpson. “I have championed conservation efforts during my time in Congress, but this directive needs more clarification to be sure that it isn’t federal overreach that will negatively impact Idaho’s industries and way of living.”

Western Caucus Members outlined their concern that Western states would be disproportionately impacted by the 30 by 30 Initiative and demanded President Biden provide details about how he plans accomplish this goal without harming the industries, economies, and ways of life in Western and rural communities.

“The lack of detail accompanying this goal, the inability of your nominee for Secretary of the Interior – author of the mirroring legislation – to answer questions about this initiative, and the fact that this effort is spear-headed by an unconfirmed appointee housed in the National Climate Task Force has resulted in numerous concerns raised by those who live, work, and recreate on and near public lands,” wrote the lawmakers.

The letter continues, “The West is already paving the way on conservation. Stewardship of our lands is embedded in our Western values. Sustainable, healthy land is the lifeblood of our rural communities and our outdoor heritage and rural economies thrive when our lands are properly managed. While the Administration has implied that multiple-use is not contrary to conservation, recent activities that attack key industries suggests otherwise.”

The federal government manages 640 million acres of land, over 90% of which is west of the Mississippi River. The Western Caucus supports policies to promote active land management, multiple-use, locally-led conservation efforts, and public land access that benefits local, rural communities and strengthens economic development throughout rural America.

A copy of the letter can be found HERE

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