The Mount Dean Stone Project seeks to create a complex of connected and conserved lands across more than 4,000 acres between Pattee Canyon and Miller Creek, connecting City of Missoula open space and conservation lands to state and U.S. Forest Service lands in the Sapphire Mountains.  The timbered draws and grassy slopes of these properties offer the Missoula community a unique opportunity to expand access to trails and outdoor recreation, while also protecting important wildlife habitat and wildlife movement corridors. 

The Mount Dean Stone Project is a multi-year project, currently in its very early stages.  Phase I included key land acquisitions and conservation easements at the base of Mount Dean Stone in Missoula’s South Hills and Pattee Canyon.  Phase II includes an option to acquire land from The Nature Conservancy, which is held in checkerboard ownership with adjacent state DNRC parcels and other private land.  Phase III includes additional options to acquire land or easements from multiple private landowners to connect the entire system.

Session Speakers: Chris Bryant, Chet Crowser, Pelah Hoyt, & Morgan Valliant

Credits: 1.25 LA CES (HSW)/NRPA CEU 0.1