Dec. 13, 2023
I am writing this comment to express my deep concerns about the authorization of Natural Asset Companies (NAC). These NACs would provide a dangerous avenue for outside entities to dictate and/or hinder or stop any activities concerning natural resources. Agricultural and mining operations are dependent on access to natural resources on public and private land, These lands are managed by the owners and U.S. land management agencies whose purpose is to represent multi-use interests of American citizens. NACs would allow outside interests (i.e. foreign entities) to 'own' and dictate nonphysical actions, greatly impacting the development and use of our natural resources. The stated goals of NACs goes against the principles of proper natural resource management and would devastate the livelihoods of many in Western United States who rely on the use of natural resources on public and private lands, such as ranchers, foresters, and miners. The management of these resources should be determined by those nearest the resources, not far off entities. Please do NOT authorize these NACs. It is a very bad idea.