Why does Beaver Creek Park need policies?

Having documented policies is a clear showing of intent, purpose, commitment and accountability, and builds trust with owners, managers, partners and others. Recent reluctance of the Hill County Park Board to explain, develop and document policies is eroding trust in managing our Beaver Creek Park.

Some feel they should not be confined by policies. Some are afraid of being accused of violating policy and, therefore, it is better to not have policies.

Without rules, regulations or policies, some folks that cut hay in the park believed they could cut hay wherever they could get their equipment.

Without a policy, native species can be labeled weeds and sprayed with herbicides. Without a weeds management policy there can be aerial broadcast spraying of non-target native plant communities.

Without a problem animal management policy, trapping of any animal could be occurring.

Even though we do have a rule about driving off road there is off road vehicular travel occurring in Beaver Creek Park under the guise of an undocumented policy that some are exempt from the rule.

Without policies, the park board has dismissed science and best-management practices.

Not having policies leaves circumstances open to arbitrary decisions. Not having policies is a “free-hand” to do, or not do, whatever leaving decision making discretionary to individuals that are changing and not necessarily accountable. Having unwritten policies is effectively the same thing and is open to interpretation and arbitrary changes.

Policies are not the same as rules or regulations. Policies can be broad and allow flexibility within the mission of the organization and side-boards of how to deal with issues. Policies can be updated relatively easily compared to rules or regulations. Well-thought-out and documented policies are a good thing and build trust.

Let’s get our heads together, work together and develop policies that will build trust and create the Beaver Creek Park we need for future generations.

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Lou Hagener is a certified professional in rangeland management by the Society for Range Management, a longtime resident of Havre and user of and advocate for Beaver Creek Park.