On the west side of town, the Garrity Mountain Wildlife Management Area protects more than 10,000 acres. Popular with outdoor enthusiasts, this is a haven for hikers, hunters and birdwatchers.

Our Role

In 2014, The Conservation Fund purchased 640 acres adjacent to Garrity Mountain Wildlife Management Area. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks then purchased the property from the Fund once it secured funding, which came from the Natural Resource Damage Protection Program, its Habitat Montana Program and the Montana Fish and Wildlife Conservation Trust. The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation also provided strategic funding to help preserve this priority landscape, which was sure to be developed in the future.

Why This Project Matters

This property contains one of the largest aspen stands in the Upper Clark Fork River basin, provides critical wintering and calving grounds for elk, and offers new public access to the northeastern section of the wildlife management area. With the strong support of the community, it is now a permanently protected addition to Garrity Mountain Wildlife Management Area for the enjoyment of all.

Learn More

News Article: State OKs addition to Anaconda wildlife management area (The Montana Standard)

News Article: State purchase of Garrity Mountain acreage improves wildlife habitat (The Missoulian)

News Article: 640 acres added to Anaconda-area WMA (Billings Gazette)

Places We Work: Montana