A number of strategies are being explored, and others are already in place, to conserve Montana’s Fish and wildlife populations. The National Forest Service and the National Park Service regulate vast tracts of land in Montana, and manage the usage of wildlife resources. New farming and mining techniques are also being employed which have a reduced impact on Montana’s ecosystem. Another major strategy for protecting Montana’s ecosystem is to encourage ecotourism. Ecotourism, and even well-regulated hunting and fishing related tourism, can serve to raise money and provide financial motivation for the expenses associated with more comprehensive conservation strategies.

In order to be effective, conservation efforts will need to address a variety of issues and concerns. From pollution and development that may threaten local natural areas to larger global issues, like climate change, protecting Montana’s natural environment may prove to be a considerable undertaking. Getting involved on a local level and lending support to any legislation or governmental efforts that have the potential to provide long-term solutions can make more of a difference than you might expect. Participating in any efforts to ensure greater conservation success will help ensure that the beauty and natural wonder of Montana will still be available for generations to come.

Given Montana’s ecological and historical richness, it is no surprise that preservation movements and conservation groups abound. The Montana Association of Land Trusts was created in 2005 and is made up of twelve individual trust organizations[2]. MALT aims to work with private landowners to safeguard farming lands, water quality and habitats, among other environmental factors, and to work toward governmental protections along these lines[3]. One such effort, geared toward tourists, is the Travelers For Open Land program, founded by MALT and the Montana Inkeepers Association[4]. Visitors who patronize certain travel-oriented establishments have the opportunity of making a donation to the Travelers For Open Land fund directly through the participating business[5]. Certain trusts, having gone through an application process, are then awarded funds which they will, in turn, use toward land and wildlife preservation[6]. Such initiatives, which rightly work to sustain Montana’s environmental treasures, represent a healthy stewardship of a land which has been endowed with exceptional beauty.

Cameron is a writer for MontanaInternetProviders.com He loves the outdoors and work with enviromental groups to protect wildlife.

[1] http://www.visitmt.com/experiences/scenic_adventures/watchable_wildlife/

[6] Ibid.

Endangered species are in danger of extinction “throughout all or a significant portion of its range,” according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Montana’s list: the black-footed ferret, least tern, white sturgeon, pallid sturgeon and whooping crane.

These animals are predicted to become endangered soon. In Montana, these are the grizzly bear, Canada lynx, piping plover and the bull trout.

Each of these animals are entitled to federal protection This includes a monitoring program that not only attempts to better count the species but bring its numbers back to health. In recent years, the bald eagle, peregrine falcon and gray wolf have been taken off of Montana’s endangered list because their resurgence as species.

A Few of Montana’s Best Camp Sites are;

Bannack State Park – A historic landmark and home Montana’s best “ghost town,” and of the state’s first gold strike back in 1862. At 5,835 feet, the area is both beautiful and filled with enjoyable activities for the family including, fishing, bicycling, horseshoes, volleyball, wildlife viewing, hiking and many more. The campground’s have 28 sites and one for group picnics as well.

The Aspen Grove Campgrounds – Located in Helena National Forest at 4,800 feet, with close access to a variety fishing and hiking trails. Bring your camera, the sites and wildlife are both colorful and beautiful. They have 20 campsites that are located next to the rugged Blackfoot River. If you have a trailer the maximum size allowed is 20 feet.

Bear Creek Campgrounds – Are a beautifully rugged area with scenic vistas that will amaze you. Situated at an elevation of 6,350 feet in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness Area. Great for horse and family camping. Maximum RV length is 28 feet. This is bear country, so please practice safe habits especially as it applies to food storage. No grilles or tables at the campgrounds.

Boulder Creek Campgrounds – The grounds have 13 campsites. If you love a heavily wooded area, you will fall in love with Boulder Creek and its wildlife and its incredible variety of birds. This campground is located in Pioneer Mountains, and has a per-night-fee. This is a very beautiful campsite with a maximum trailer/RV size of 30 feet.

Old Faithful Basin:

You can’t spend a day in Yellowstone without visiting the Old Faithful geyser basin. The 1-1.4 mile trail around Old Faithful makes a nice easy family walk, past many of the park’s geysers. The trailhead is near Old Faithful Lodge, if you want to stop for souvenirs or food.

Waterfalls:

Yellowstone has spectacular waterfalls as well as geysers. The 2.5 mile round trip to the 70-foot Mystic Falls has some steep sections, but is one of the easier waterfall viewing trips. The parking area gives access as well to Morning Glory Pool and Upper Geyser Basin trails. Fairy Falls is a 5-7 mile hike with a graceful 200-foot waterfall and an option of continuing to Imperial Geyser.

Canyon Area:

Avoid the crowds as you explore the hot springs and lakes on the longer and more strenuous trail systems in the Canyon Area.

Now the entire population of gray wolves may get killed off under the newest Montana wildlife legislation and directives put into action by the state governor. Gov. Brian Schweitzer has given orders that authorize killing off wolves in large numbers and to end investigations of ranchers who shoot wolves themselves.Never heard of this before? Get up to speed here. This is an almost guaranteed death sentence for the Montana wolf population.

Wolves are responsible for attacking local livestock and the elk population of Montana. This has been an issue for over a century, but until now has been handled as an issue of environmental impact in Montana.

Local communities are encouraging people to rally and write the Montana government and doing anything to help the wolves of Montana. Protecting them from ranchers is unlikely to be possible at this point, but any public response can have effects on the situation.