The Blackfoot River in Montana has a rich and storied history. The Blackfoot Valley was carved by glaciers which extended from the high peaks to the valley floor, grinding and sculpting as they moved. In their wake they left a magical landscape that has inspired visitors for centuries. This river of priceless grace and beauty is the one that Merriwether Lewis traveled on his return during his journey of discovery. And it is the Blackfoot, that inspired Norman MacLean's book and movie, A River Runs Through It.

In one of the largest conservation land deals in Montana history, nearly 41,000 acres in the forested lands surrounding the river valley will now be protected thanks to an agreement between The Nature Conservancy and Plum Creek Timber. The deal to be completed over five years will involve the purchase and re-sale, with conservation restrictions, of 88,000 acres of lands to private and public buyers. This historic purchase will help to protect the Blackfoot River Valley for future generations and preserve the rural ranching character of the valley.

Blackfoot River © Jim Steinberg

The Nature Conservancy has been working in the Blackfoot Valley since 1976. As part of the Blackfoot Challenge, a local nonprofit, the Conservancy has worked with outfitters, land managers, timber and mining interests, business people, and ranchers to protect this deeply beloved place.

Elk © Cary Klotz

Facts:

• Size: 40,780 acres
• Location: Montana
• Animal Species: Grizzly bears, elk, deer, mountain lions, Canada lynx, bull and cutthroat trout, 236 bird species.
• Plant Species: Pine, fir and western larch forests

Learn More:

• Press Release
• The Nature Conservancy in Montana
• The Blackfoot River
• Plum Creek Deal in Wisconsin

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