_____________ joint resolution NO. _____________

INTRODUCED BY _________________________________________________

By Request of the ****

A joint resolution of the Senate and the House of Representatives of the state of montana requesting an interim study of establishing a network of cabins on state trust lands; and requiring that the final results of the study be reported to the 69th Legislature.

WHEREAS, Europe is well-known for its network of mountain huts where hikers can trek through alpine terrain during the day and stay the night at lodging that ranges from rustic to extravagant; and

WHEREAS, maximizing state trust land for education is the mission of the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation's Trust Land Management Division; and

WHEREAS, the state leases more than 700 cabin sites and offers some for sale annually; and

WHEREAS, hut-to-hut hiking is gaining popularity, and some states, including Vermont and Alaska, are developing hut networks; and

WHEREAS, establishing a network of huts on state trust lands either through sale or lease could raise substantial money for education in the state.

Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senate and the House of Representatives OF THE STATE OF MONTANA:

That the Legislative Council be requested to designate an appropriate interim committee or statutory committee, pursuant to section 5-5-217, MCA, or direct sufficient staff resources to examine the possibility of establishing a network of cabin sites on state trust lands.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the study examine the history of hut-to-hut hiking in in other states and around the world, including how the networks are established, owned, and operated.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if the study is assigned to staff, any findings or conclusions be presented to and reviewed by an appropriate committee designated by the Legislative Council.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all aspects of the study, including presentation and review requirements, be concluded prior to September 15, 2024.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the final results of the study, including any findings, conclusions, comments, or recommendations of the appropriate committee, be reported to the 69th Legislature.