HELENA — The Prickly Pear Land Trust (PPLT), in partnership with Fort Harrison, is currently collaborating on a conservation initiative aimed at preserving Birdseye Ranch.
According to PPLT Executive Director Mary Hollow, “We’ve been working with the Montana Army National Guard on similar projects since 2015. They are one of our most valued partners and it’s a pleasure to work with them.”
The Lewis and Clark County Commission has initiated a 30-day comment period starting April 18 to allow PPLT to utilize $1 million from the county’s open space bond for the acquisition of nearly 1,500 acres of land in the Birdseye area.
Tom Buchanan
This land is situated next to Fort Harrison, with a portion of the land’s purchase cost being covered by the Department of Defense’s ACUB Program. Additional funding will come from the Montana Fish and Wildlife Conservation Trust, with PPLT providing project management services as an in-kind contribution.
Colonel Kelly Traynham, Construction and Facilities Management Officer for the Montana Army National Guard, emphasized the importance of securing this property to maintain the fort’s operational capabilities without interference from potential developers if the land were to be sold.
Hollow expressed enthusiasm for the project, citing previous successful collaborations like the Ten Mile and Seven Mile projects. She highlighted the urgency of protecting land amidst rapid state changes to achieve goals related to wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation, and agricultural economy.
If the acquisition is finalized, Hollow noted that the land has potential for grazing and public access. The comment period ends on May 20, with the Commission’s vote scheduled for May 21.
