Energy Law Involves the use and regulation of electricity, natural gas, coal, hydropower, oil, and alternative energy sources like solar, wind, biomass and alcohol fuels, and geothermal -- including rate regulation, energy purchase and sale, public utilities, energy facility licensing, and deregulation of power and electric companies. Natural Resources Law encompass land, fish, wildlife, biota, air, water, ground water, drinking water supplies, and other such resources belonging to, managed by, held in trust by, appertaining to, or otherwise controlled by the United States, any State or local government.
Billings is the largest city in the U.S. state of Montana, located in the south-central portion of the state. Billings is rapidly growing; as of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 89,847, while the Census Bureau's 2008 estimate listed the city's population at 103,994. It is the 60th fastest growing city out of the 259 cities in the U.S. with populations over 100,000, of which Billings is #259, the smallest. Billings is the county seat of Yellowstone County and is the principal city of the Billings Metropolitan Area. It is the principal city of the largest metropolitan area in Montana, and is the largest city between Denver and Calgary and between Sioux Falls and Spokane. Nicknamed the Magic City because of its rapid growth from its founding as a railroad town in 1882, Billings is named for Frederick H. Billings, president of the Northern Pacific Railroad. As the largest city in the area—the nearest city as large as Billings is over 350 miles (560 km) away—Billings serves as a shopping and accommodation center for area residents and highway travelers. The city's proximity to Yellowstone National Park, Pompey's Pillar, and the area where the Battle of the Little Bighorn was fought also draws visitors, especially during the summer months. Best Life Magazine recently ranked Billings the 3rd best place in the U.S. to raise a family.