MISSOULA, Mont. – Following yesterday's announcement by President Trump that he has nominated acting Interior Secretary David Bernhardt as head of the Interior Department, BHA President and CEO Land Tawney offered this response:

"David Bernhardt has been part of the Trump administration and consequently has played a key role in actions undertaken by the Interior Department over the past two years. We trust that as a public servant bound to uphold Interior’s mission and the responsible management of natural resources, he will utilize the best available science to guide decisions that strike a balance between resource development and conservation. Hunters and anglers encourage Mr. Bernhardt to advance proactive policies that elevate considerations for important fish and wildlife habitat, maintain migratory corridor connectivity and enhance public access."

Contact: Katie McKalip, BHA, 406-240-9262,mckalip@backcountryhunters.org