76-12-102. Legislative findings. The legislature finds that:

(1) in the expanses of Montana there are natural areas possessing significant scenic, educational, scientific, biological, and/or geological values or areas possessing these characteristics to a degree promising their restoration to a natural state;

(2) since the development of these areas is an irreversible commitment of a finite and diminishing resource of fundamental importance, selected areas should be preserved for the benefit of this and future generations;

(3) currently there are no regulations promulgated by the state or local governments to insure adequate protection for natural areas;

(4) it is necessary to establish a process for developing a system of natural areas and to encourage public and private participation in the establishment of a natural areas system for the benefit of the citizens of the state; and

(5) designations of natural areas should first consider protected natural features in publicly owned and privately dedicated lands, such as nature preserves, natural areas, parks, and wilderness areas, and should avoid duplication of these features.