Anaconda, Montana: $4 Million Fund for Ecological and Recreational Enhancement
Community Engagement in Restoration Efforts
ANACONDA, Mont. — A significant funding opportunity of up to $4 million is now available for enhancing the recreational areas, ecological well-being, and wildlife habitats of Anaconda. The state of Montana invites residents to share their opinions on how these resources should be utilized.
The Natural Resource Damage Program (NRDP) has unveiled an updated version of the Anaconda Uplands Restoration Plan following the successful cleanup operations across approximately 4,000 acres at Stucky Ridge and Mount Haggin—regions historically affected by extensive smelting activities.
Allocation of Funds for Diverse Initiatives
More than $4 million sourced from reparations paid by Atlantic Richfield will be earmarked for rejuvenating lands managed by the county. The proposed distribution suggests a careful approach to funding: allocating $200,000 towards the acquisition of A-Hill, dedicating $600,000 to bolster wildlife habitats, investing approximately $1.3 million in ecological initiatives, and reserving about $1.9 million specifically for recreational enhancements.
Community members have been instrumental throughout this process and are encouraged to continue contributing feedback on several proposals. These include plans for developing a multi-use trail on A-Hill alongside a connecting path leading to C-Hill. Additionally, wildlife restoration efforts may involve rehabilitating riparian environments along Sheep Gulch as well as restoring sagebrush/bitterbrush ecosystems vital for mule deer populations.
Promoting Ecological Recovery Projects
On the ecology front, plans might encompass boosting aspen growth, revegetation efforts along both decommissioned trails and existing pathways—including new ones—and implementing measures aimed at curtailing erosion.
Ray Vinkey—an environmental science officer with NRDP—emphasized that community feedback plays a critical role in shaping their final decisions: “Our aim is consistently focused on achieving an optimal balance between public benefit and cost-efficiency.”
Anaconda boasts diverse engagement among various user groups including hunters, anglers, hikers, bikers—and even those who simply appreciate its scenic views.
Looking Ahead: Governor’s Approval Process
“The governor serves as trustee over these funds necessitating his final approval on this amendment,” Doug Martin—the NRDP administrator—stated; he noted that discussions with the governor revealed a keen interest in constituents’ perspectives regarding how these funds would be allocated. Once public commentary is collected and organized for review by the governor’s office it will be taken into account thoroughly before any decisions are made.
There is optimism surrounding swift action; authorities hope implementation will commence within the next ten years or sooner if feasible.
“Effectively targeting high-benefit projects can take some initial time,” Martin explained further emphasizing their objective: “However accelerating fund deployment translates directly into shorter recovery timelines.”
Upcoming Public Hearing Details
To facilitate ongoing dialogue about this initiative with local stakeholders Pilgrim Hotel located on Main Street will host a public hearing concerning this amendment Tuesday January 7th from 6-8 PM where community feedback will again play an essential role in guiding future restoration activities.
