The approval of the expansion and connection of the Isaac Homestead Wildlife Management Area, totaling about 414 acres, was granted by the Fish and Wildlife Commission on June 20.
The WMA, situated west of Forsyth across the Yellowstone River, will now be connected through this recent purchase, bridging two previous land acquisitions along the river. The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks had an easement to access the property further east, but high water washed out the road, isolating the parcel. Therefore, public access to the eastern parcel was limited to the river only.
Commissioner Brian Cebull of Billings expressed support for the acquisition to unite the two parcels, initiating the motion.
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The newly purchased parcel, outlined in green, connects the previously isolated parcels of the Isaac Homestead Wildlife Management Area.
The landowner’s prompt interest in selling the property last year led them to contact FWP, which prompted the Montana Outdoor Legacy Foundation to step in and acquire the land for $900,000, along with $19,000 in fees.
Mitch King, executive director of the Montana Outdoor Legacy Foundation, mentioned the use of a new “assets for conservation program” that channels Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Trust assets towards conservation-related acquisitions rather than traditional investments.
FWP proposed using funds primarily from Habitat Montana, along with an additional $400,000 from the Migratory Bird Wetland Program to purchase the land from the foundation. Approval from the State Land Board was not necessary due to the value being under $1 million.
While supporting the purchase, Jeff Lukas of the Montana Wildlife Federation expressed concern about the use of waterfowl dollars.
In addition to creating a unified WMA, FWP highlighted the conservation and enhancement of Yellowstone River riparian, wetland, and sagebrush-steppe habitats, the expansion of public recreational opportunities along the Lower Yellowstone River, and the opening up of potential cooperative farming leases with local agricultural producers.
The Isaac Homestead WMA, initially acquired in 1969 with additional purchases in 1970 and 1973 according to FWP’s website, aims to provide hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer, pheasants, and waterfowl.
A supporter of the land purchase, Colstrip hunter Rick Miller, mentioned his enjoyment of hunting on the property but noted an increase in hunters. He believed that the additional acreage would address these concerns.
The original parcels, totaling 1,263 acres, are available to public hunters through the Block Management Program.
During the same meeting, the commission approved 10 habitat conservation leases covering approximately 53,000 acres. Commission vice-chair Pat Tabor regarded these actions as providing substantial additional access for the public.
