I am a very proud sponsor of H.R. 2966, the Right to Ride Livestock on Federal Lands Act of 2004.  Pack and saddle stock animals were a critical element in many early Americans' livelihood.

H.R. 2966 directs the Secretary to provide for the management of public lands to preserve and facilitate the continued use and access of horse and saddle stock animals on such lands, including wilderness areas, national monuments, and other specifically designated areas where there is a historical tradition of such use.

Not later than 120 days after the passage of this Act, the Secretary shall issue final rules to define the meaning of a ``historical tradition of use'' by pack and saddle stock animals on federal lands.

Defining managed recreation of this historical practice within our national forests is critical in recognizing the cultural contributions and precedent of pack and saddle stock in our public lands above simple recreational use.