This is the first conservation agreement off reservation lands in Montana to explicitly protect and perpetuate traditional practices, cultural sites, and Indigenous ceremony, formally recognizing them as aligned with preserving the land’s conservation values.
A growing number of land transfer bills in Montana and across the West could, among other losses, make it harder for wildlife to access the habitat and other resources they require to survive.
Climb aboard for a time-lapse tour of private land protection under the Big Sky. Over 50 years, citizens, journalists, and public servants protect 6 million acres.
My greatest hope is to preserve the opportunity for mine and future generations to continue enjoying our access and space as it is now.
In my career as a scientist, the East Helena community is the one place that was always engaged in the work and had a strong vision for positive change in their community.
Keystone Property in a Conservation Neighborhood Birdseye Ranch is one of the last large tracts of native grasslands in the Helena Valley. The 1,472-acre property
Saving America’s River The Missouri River’s blue ribbon trout fishing draws more than 150,000 anglers a year. Visitors have always delighted in the scenic open
Working Ranch Treasured by Family and Community The Potter Ranch is one of the last working ranches of its size in the Helena Valley. The
People and Wildlife Flock to Healthy Creek Just a few miles northwest of Helena, Prickly Pear Land Trust owns and manages the 358-acre Sevenmile Creek
Prickly Pear Land Trust acquired Birdseye Ranch with funding from the Army’s REPI program. PPLT will manage the ranch for grazing, seasonal public access, and wildlife.
Prickly Pear Land Trust recognizes that the lands we conserve are the traditional and contemporary territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfeet), the Sélish (Salish), the Ktunaxa (Kootenai), the Métis (Little Shell Chippewa), the Apsáalooke (Crow), and the Shoshone-Bannock peoples. The Indigenous Nations who continue their connections with this ground, these waters, and all creatures have always and will always be the original stewards of the land. PPLT prioritizes Indigenous partners and actively seeks projects that respect their cultures, honor their values, and create a collaborative conservation vision.
©2025 PRICKLY PEAR LAND TRUST
