New group backs energy projects

Public officials, business people and individuals who support environmentally sound energy development have formed a new group in Eastern Montana.

By CLAIR JOHNSON
Of The Gazette Staff

"We believe with new technology and modern methods that significant economic benefits can be enjoyed by our communities through responsible development of energy," said Tod Kasten, a Circle rancher. "And we believe development can be done without any adverse impacts to our environment."

The non-profit group, called Montanans for Responsible Energy Development, is based in Miles City. So far, the organization has about 35 members who include county commissioners, legislators, business people and individuals. The group’s next meeting is Oct. 16. Membership is $10 a year.

State Sen. Mack Cole, R-Hysham, is chairman. Cole said the broad-based group will focus on how the state can use its natural resources to help boost the state’s and local communities’ economies.

"We’re looking more at the broad picture," he said. "We feel strongly that a silent majority of Montanans are supportive of responsible development of our natural resources."

The group hopes to promote the development of wind, water, land, coal, natural gas, coalbed methane, ethanol, bio-diesel, oil and solar as alternative energy sources. The group also will concentrate on adding more value to agricultural products.

Development of these energy sources could help Montana turn around a projected $250 million budget deficit "or whatever it is today," Cole said. "I think if we can develop some more energy … maybe we can be one of the states that doesn’t have a huge deficit. Our energy is probably our best ace in the hole."

Cole said responsible energy development means using the state’s natural resources to benefit Montanans, such as improving schools, while having a minimum impact on the area where the resource is extracted.

He said the state has good environmental laws that protect water, air and provide for reclamation. "I don’t want to change any of those laws that protect the environment," Cole said.

Cole, who is prevented from seeking re-election because of term limits, is chair of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee, a member of the Senate Natural Resources Committee and member of the Environmental Quality Council.

The group also is concerned about declining population in Eastern Montana communities.

"Economic development is badly needed to improve our economy and communities," said group secretary-treasurer Tom McKerlick. "Our communities should be on the endangered species list."

Citizens may join by sending a $10 membership fee with name and address to MRED, 315 Main St., Miles City MT 59301. For more information, call Cole at 406-342-5400, Kasten at 406-485-3588 or McKerlick at 406-232-2705.

Clair Johnson can be reached at 657-1282 or at [email protected]

Copyright © The Billings Gazette, a division of Lee Enterprises.

http://www.billingsgazette.com/index.php?id=1&display=rednews/2002/10/04/build/local/86-energy.inc