90-15-301. Establishment of information system. (1) The library shall establish a planning framework for the implementation of a natural resource information system and shall begin implementation of the plan. This system is to be a comprehensive program for the acquisition, storage, and retrieval of existing data relating to the natural resources of Montana.

(2) The library shall give attention to the following factors and shall prepare any legislation necessary to implement the system:

(a) the categories and types of data to be collected for a natural resource information system;

(b) the format of data collection;

(c) existing sources of relevant data in the public sector;

(d) data acquisition, storage, and retrieval methodologies that are economical and efficient, that minimize or eliminate the duplication of databases, and that use computer networking;

(e) probable costs to agencies furnishing required data and probable costs of managing the data;

(f) probable benefits to be realized by the establishment of a natural resource information system;

(g) operation of the Montana natural heritage program; and

(h) other items of importance to the establishment of a natural resource information system.

(3) It is not intended that the system shall require fieldwork to produce data. The system is intended to facilitate the management of data collected by state agencies in the normal course of their operations.