It's time to speak up on National Bison Range issue

Editor,

This is an open letter to Senator Burns:

In a letter dated July 9, 2004, in opposition to the proposed transfer of duties at the National Bison Range, you wrote:

"The Salish Kootenai Tribe is a Sovereign Nation. They are not a local government representative of all who reside within its boundaries."

In an e-mail dated June l0, 2003, your representative in Washington, D. C., wrote, "Your message has been heard loud and clear. This issue has definitely taken a national profile and the Senator is hearing from people all over the country."

A year has passed. Thousands more messages have been sent or delivered in person to those responsible for negotiations with the tribes.

All of them have been ignored by the bureaucrats in Washington, D.C.

When mitigation leads to capitulation, surely litigation will follow.

In our form of government we elect persons who accept the responsibilty of making sure our voices are heard.

Senator Burns, you and Senator Baucus and Representative Rehberg are those persons. From you, we are expecting recognition, understanding and, most importantly, leadership.

Bureaucracy, without oversight and control must not be allowed to ignore the reasoned opposition to the transfer of any control of any portion of duties on any national refuge.

And so, I write to you tonight:

As with one voice we've spoken. Speak up now and make it right.

Our will will not be broken.

Rita Senkler

Charlo