Conservation
The Flathead region, bordering Glacier National Park and gateway to the Bob Marshall Wilderness, is one of Montana’s most spectacular areas.
At the head of the great Columbia River system, the Flathead area is defined by the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, Flathead Lake, and the three forks of the Flathead River – the North Fork, the South Fork and the Middle Fork.
Incredible scenery, clean water, and thriving wildlife populations are treasured by residents and visitors alike. However, the qualities that make this such a spectacular place to live and visit also threaten its future. This breathtaking area has been “discovered” and has experienced some of the highest population growth rates in the state.
Our challenge is to safeguard the features of the area that make northwest Montana special and unique and a continued treasure for future generations. We seek to provide a balance of exponential growth with those values we cherish – clean water, rural character, scenic views, unparalleled wildlife, and access to recreation.
We meet this challenge by assisting landowners and the community in identifying those treasures that make northwest Montana special and finding ways to protect the lands that support these values.
As proud owners of a very small part of The Last Great Place, we realize that we have a role to play in protecting the Montana we love. However, we know we cannot do this alone. And so we turned to Flathead Land Trust.
And what is the payback? Huge – the assurance that future generations will be able to enjoy the Montana we know today.”
~ Alan and Sallie Gratch, landowners with a Flathead Land Trust conservation easement and Flathead Land Trust members
