90-15-302. Natural heritage program. (1) There is a Montana natural heritage program to be operated by the library. In order to establish the program, the library may contract with an independent contractor or may employ necessary staff. In order to minimize costs, the library or other state agencies may make available state resources and facilities to an independent contractor as part of a contract for services.

(2) The Montana natural heritage program shall be designed to be compatible with similar programs in other states. This program is to be an initial step in the formulation of the comprehensive natural resource information system referred to in 90-15-301 and is to be considered a part of the system.