Since its inception, Montana’s Stream Access Law (SAL) has faced a series of challenges by landowners seeking redress for what they consider trespass on private access to public waters.
The most current case involves a bridge over the Ruby river, a 2012 Madison County ruling, the Montana Public Lands / Water Access Association (PLWAA), and James Cox Kennedy, a landowner on the Ruby.
The best news on this argument: It will be heard by the Montana Supreme Court justices in a public forum at MSU on April 29, 2013. Since public interest has always been keen on this law, this is a wise move on behalf of the Supreme Court.
Many articles and blogs have covered the issue, and the Angling Trade has a current article covering the details of the case.
FOAM believes the PLWAA deserves all the help they can get. They’ve been at the core of many land and water access battles over the years, and common support (membership, contributions, etc.) will go a long way in aiding their fight for Montanan’s access to public resources.
For our part, our board of directors is considering a substantial (for us) contribution to help defray the cost of this litigation. You may well decide to help, too. Thanks in advance if you do.