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Public Comment. Volume III - Montana Legislature

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Robert Ochsner<br />

April 5, 1994<br />

Page 6<br />

sales of lands in the area that have sold specifically for the<br />

purpose of the rail spur.<br />

An investigation into sales in the area on lands similar to those<br />

of the state's tracts, indicated lands for grazing purposes are<br />

selling for around $60-150/acre and CRP lands are selling for<br />

around $165-280/acre. However, Meridian is acquiring lands specifically<br />

for the purpose of its rail spur and is paying<br />

$400/acre regardless of whether it is grazing or CRP lands. It<br />

is the opinion of the Department and its staff appraiser that<br />

Meridian has in effect established a separate market for the sale<br />

of lands for this purpose and as such fair market value in this<br />

instance should be tied directly to the value lands are being<br />

sold for for this specific purpose.<br />

There are several issues related to certain other special easement<br />

conditions and/or stipulations recommended by the<br />

Department. In reviewing the EIS for site specific concerns, the<br />

Department feels that'some of the mitigation measures are not<br />

adequate. It is the Department's opinion that several special<br />

stipulations are warranted to mitigate Department concerns and to<br />

provide for the long term preservation and protection of the<br />

lands and the trust.<br />

In the interest of safety, the Department recommends a stipulation<br />

be added to any easement that requires Meridian to comply<br />

with (need MCA & ARM citations from staff legal counsel) for<br />

prevention and control of fires. The Department also feels the<br />

installation and maintenance of an approved fence along the easement<br />

boundary with gates at designated locations is necessary.<br />

There are some instances where the proposed rail line would split<br />

or sever state lands. In these instances, in addition to gates<br />

the Department recommends construction and maintenance of appropriate<br />

crossings to facilitate the movement of persons,<br />

livestock, machinery and equipment. Those areas and crossings of<br />

particular concern are as follows --<br />

Tract #2 - S% Section 16, T5N-R25E, Musselshell County<br />

The proposed rail spur would cross a drainage in the SW*. A<br />

water culvert and livestock underpass culvert are recommended<br />

to protect a spring and facilitate and promote the free<br />

movement of livestock under the bridge. The lands in this<br />

area have been classified as wetlands, therefore ~eridian<br />

will need to secure approval from other agencies which may<br />

have authorities over actions involving wetlands. Should<br />

filling activities related to the installation of said cul-<br />

EQC Eminent Domain Study -253-

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