Governor Gianforte, FWP increase public access and conservation on 50,000 acres in eastern Montana

As chair of the Montana Land Board, Governor Greg Gianforte recently led the state's purchase of more than 50,000 acres of habitat conservation leases (HCL) to increase public access, keep agricultural land in production, and conserve prairie habitats.

With the support of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), conservation groups, and farmers and ranchers, the governor and members of the land board celebrated the approval to purchase eight private properties to enroll as HCLs.

"Our top priority will continue to be to increase public access while preserving our treasured lands and habitats for g...