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# Heart of the Rockies Initiative

We create connections to support and scale private land conservation

## Sitemaps

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## Posts

- [Partner Profile: Choteau Area Port Authority](https://heart-of-rockies.org/partner-profile-choteau-area-port-authority/) - Partner Profile: Choteau Area Port Authority The city of Choteau, Montana is located in north central Montana at the foot of the Rocky Mountain Front. The county seat of Teton County, Choteau is a rural community with a rich agricultural history and a host of nearby recreational opportunities. In 2025, the Rural Initiatives program was invited
- [Keep It Connected](https://heart-of-rockies.org/keep-it-connected/) - The Transboundary Rocky Mountains is a geography of hope and opportunity. Today, we have enough wide-open spaces to support iconic wildlife, agricultural economies, and free-flowing rivers. Yet, we are experiencing extraordinary economic and demographic pressure that will forever change the landscape and how it supports our economies and communities. When we conserve wildlife habitat and
- [Carnivore Conflict Reduction: Utilizing Cameras to Aid in Range Riding](https://heart-of-rockies.org/carnivore-conflict-reduction-utilizing-cameras-to-aid-in-range-riding/) - By Steve Primm, Conflict Reduction Manager PHOTO: A still frame from a video showing a grizzly bear, courtesy of Steve Primm, Conflict Reduction Manager at Heart of the Rockies. In many parts of the Rocky Mountains, livestock spend part of the year grazing mountain pastures on public lands managed by the US Forest Service or
- [The Increasing Importance of Bear Safety](https://heart-of-rockies.org/the-increasing-importance-of-bear-safety/) - Steve Primm, Carnivore Conflict Reduction ManagerSpringtime in the Rockies is always a marvelous season: flowers emerge, favorite birds – such as sandhill cranes and Western Tanagers — migrate back from their wintering grounds, and lots of mammals give birth. Spring also means bears – grizzly and black — come out of their dens and mix
- [From the Map Files: Summer 2026](https://heart-of-rockies.org/from-the-map-files-summer-2026/) - By Amy Katz, Conservation DirectorPhoto in header by Brent Calver, courtesy of Nature Conservancy of CanadaThis spring, in between house projects and running around in the wildflowers with my girlfriends and my dog, I am integrating a new connectivity model into our Keep It Connected science strategy. Heart of the Rockies Initiative created the Keep It
- [Partner Profile: Yaak Community Hall](https://heart-of-rockies.org/partner-profile-yaak-community-hall/) - Partner Profile: Yaak Community Hall By Robyn King What We Do: Mission and Key Programs In the Yaak Valley, the Community Hall is more than a building — it’s where life happens.Built in 1925 by homesteaders using larch logs harvested from the surrounding forest, the Yaak Community Hall has served as the heart of this
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Palouse Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-palouse-land-trust/) - Mission & Key Programs Palouse Land Trust works with landowners and communities to conserve the lands we love, now and forever, and to enrich connections to the natural world.We help permanently conserve the very best of the Palouse and north-central Idaho: open spaces and iconic landscapes, rare ecosystems, working farms and forests, healthy wildlife and fish
- [Carnivore Conflict Reduction: The Important Role of Carcass Removal and Composting](https://heart-of-rockies.org/carnivore-conflict-reduction-the-important-role-of-carcass-removal-and-composting/) - By Steve Primm, Conflict Reduction Manager A family of grizzly bears feeding on a cow carcass. Photo courtesy of Steve Primm, Conflict Reduction Manager at Heart of the Rockies. Montana is ranching country, consistently ranking in the top seven states for beef calf production, with similar standings for lamb and wool. In addition to bringing nutritious meat
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Summit Land Conservancy](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-summit-land-conservancy/) - Mission & Key Programs Summit Land Conservancy works with Utah communities to conserve land and water for the benefit of people and nature.Summit Land Conservancy’s Utah Headwaters Initiative focuses on strengthening the agricultural and ecological health of the Weber, Provo, and Bear River systems; all of which ultimately support the Great Salt Lake.Through conservation easements
- [Bears and Garbage : A Bad Combination](https://heart-of-rockies.org/bears-and-garbage-a-bad-combination/) - Bears and Garbage : A Bad Combination By Steve Primm, Carnivore Conflict Reduction Manager Some combinations are never a good idea: Fireworks and dry grass. Texting and driving. Whiskey and chainsaws. And in the wildlife world, bears and garbage. Just like other bad combinations, bears-plus-garbage always leads to an unhappy ending: conflict, dead bears, upset people. Bears are
- [In the Field: Palouse Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/in-the-field-palouse-land-trust/) - Tucked away in Deary, Idaho, the Olson Family Conservation Preserve is a living legacy of the family’s multi-generational history and connection with nature. Gifted to Palouse Land Trust to protect this cherished property, the preserve now offers a space where the local community can engage with the outdoors and build meaningful connections to the land. While public access is
- [From the Map Files: Spring 2026](https://heart-of-rockies.org/from-the-map-files-spring-2026/) - By Amy Katz, Conservation DirectorWhy here? This is a question I’ve become accustomed to answering over the years when describing Heart of the Rockies Initiative’s sweeping, transboundary service area.And it’s a valid question: There are many beautiful, important landscapes in North America, each with its own unique conservation values. As someone who grew up in
- [In the Field: Wood River Land Trust & The Nature Conservancy - Idaho](https://heart-of-rockies.org/in-the-field-wood-river-land-trust-the-nature-conservancy-idaho/) - In the Field: Wood River Land Trust & The Nature Conservancy - Idaho Heart of the Rockies Initiative supports 31 member land trusts in the Rocky Mountain West through science delivery, capacity support, collaborative fundraising, learning and networking activities. Our favorite thing is to connect with our members in person – ideally on the landscape
- [From the Map Files: Winter 2025](https://heart-of-rockies.org/from-the-map-files-winter-2025-2/) - By Amy Katz, Conservation Director(Photo in header of Bozeman Pass by Kestrel Aerial courtesy of Gallatin Valley Land Trust.)As our land trust members are wrapping up 2025, rushing to close easements and fill final funding gaps to meet year-end deadlines, I have been thinking a lot about the sense of urgency many of us in the conservation
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Emily Harkness](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-staff-meet-emily-harkness/) - Emily Harkness, Community Engagement Manager Emily Harkness joined Heart of the Rockies Initiative in 2017. In her role as community engagement manager, Emily is inspired by our partners in the region, who are incredible people doing great work. She loves taking the time to listen and get to know each individual partner, then bring them
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Gavin Ricklefs](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-staff-meet-gavin-ricklefs/) - Gavin Ricklefs, Managing Director Gavin Ricklefs joined Heart of the Rockies Initiative as managing director in 2024, following 17 years as executive director at Bitter Root Land Trust in Hamilton, Montana. During his tenure, Bitter Root Land Trust became a national leader in Farm Bill policy and implementation and a model of community-supported private land
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Steve Primm](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-staff-meet-steve-primm/) - steve primm, carnivore conflict reduction manager Steve joined Heart of the Rockies Initiative in 2024, building on 30 years’ experience in carnivore-human conflict reduction work. He has worked with rural communities to develop, apply, and improve tools and practices for reducing conflicts between people and large carnivores. He leverages this experience by developing policies and
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Diana Price](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-staff-meet-diana-price/) - diana price, advancement director Diana joined Heart of the Rockies Initiative in June 2024. With a career that has spanned writing, editing, communications, and development roles across education, business, technology, and healthcare, Diana brings a love for purpose-driven storytelling, collaborative project management, and fund development to her position as Advancement Director. Born and raised in
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Joann Grant](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-staff-meet-joann-grant/) - Joann Grant, Managing Director JoAnn has been a valued member of Heart of the Rockies Initiative team since 2011 and has over 20 years’ experience working with land trusts, developing collaborative partnerships, and administering complex federal and private funding. As managing director, she is responsible for managing finances and land trust relationships and leads the
- [New Funding Available for Community-Led Bear Conflict Prevention](https://heart-of-rockies.org/new-funding-available-for-community-led-bear-conflict-prevention-2/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASETuesday, August 26, 2025 New Funding Available for Community-Led Bear Conflict PreventionMontanans learning to live and work around grizzly bears are invited to apply for funding to help their communities adopt bear-resistant infrastructure and public education initiatives aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflicts. The second round of the Montana Community-Bear Conflict Prevention Efforts Fund will award
- [From the Map Files: Fall 2025](https://heart-of-rockies.org/from-the-map-files-fall-2025/) - By Amy Katz, Conservation DirectorRecently, I went through the laborious process of building a custom hillshade for our full Heart of the Rockies geography. A hillshade is the foundational layer on a map that is textured to show elevation. As I started integrating this new basemap into our Keep It Connected project maps, I am
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Nature Conservancy of Canada - British Columbia](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-nature-conservancy-of-canada-british-columbia/) - Mission & Key Programs The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is Canada’s leading national land conservation organization. A private, non-profit organization, we partner with individuals, corporations, foundations, Indigenous communities and other non-profit organizations and governments at all levels to protect our most important natural treasures — the natural areas that sustain Canada’s plants and wildlife. We
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Jackson Hole Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-jackson-hole-land-trust/) - Mission & Key Programs Mission: The Jackson Hole Land Trust’s mission is to protect and steward Northwest Wyoming landscapes for current and future generations. We envision a legacy of resilient open spaces, wildlife habitat, working lands, and community places, forever protected across Northwest Wyoming. We partner with families to steward the rich ecology and agricultural vitality
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Payette Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-payette-land-trust/) - Mission & Key Programs Payette Land Trust is dedicated to conserving the rural landscapes of West Central Idaho to benefit our communities; protecting the scenic, agricultural, recreational, historic, and wildlife character of the region. Service Area West Central Idaho: Adams, Idaho, Valley and Washington Counties. PLT’s service area encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems from
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Nature Conservancy Canada - Alberta](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-nature-conservancy-canada-alberta/) - Mission & Key Programs The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is the nation’s leading not-for-profit, private land conservation organization, working to protect our most important natural areas and the plants and animals they sustain. Since 1962, NCC and its partners have helped to protect 14 million hectares (35 million acres), coast to coast. By investing
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Wood River Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-wood-river-land-trust/) - Mission & Key Programs The mission of Wood River Land Trust (WRLT) is: To protect and sustain the treasured landscapes and life-giving waters of the Wood River Valley and inspire love for this special place for generations to come.Key programs of Wood River Land Trust include:PROTECTING & MAINTAINING WILD SPACES & HAPPY PLACES.EXPAND PROTECTED AREAS:
- [From the Map Files: Summer 2025](https://heart-of-rockies.org/from-the-map-files-summer-2025/) - By Amy Katz, Conservation & GIS Manager For three days in early May, Heart of the Rockies Initiative gathered our land trust members in Fernie, British Columbia for our spring member meeting. Home to our newest land trust member, Elk Valley Regional Land Trust, Fernie is a quaint mountain town framed by the picturesque Lizard
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Elk Valley Regional Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-elk-valley-regional-land-trust/) - Mission & Key Programs The purposes of Elk Valley Regional Land Trust are to conserve and protect the environment for the benefit of the public by acquiring and managing property in the Elk Valley and through the establishment of conservation covenants designed to conserve, protect and rehabilitate ecosystems and the environment. Key facts about our
- [Land Trust Member Profile: The Montana Land Reliance](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-the-montana-land-reliance/) - Mission & Key Programs Mission: The Montana Land Reliance (MLR) partners with private landowners to permanently protect agricultural lands, fish and wildlife habitat, and open space.Vision: The lasting benefits of MLR’s work are the perpetuation of a lifestyle and an economy that rely on responsibly managed private land and increasingly valuable Montana open spaces that
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Joel DeMay](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-staff-meet-joel-demay/) - Joel DeMay, Big Sky Watershed Corps Member and Project Assistant to Carnivore Conflict Reduction and Rural Initiatives programs Joel’s work with Heart of the Rockies Initiative has included creating short films for two of our member land trusts, including this film for Flathead Land Trust. What led you to explore a career in conservation? While
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Five Valleys Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-five-valleys-land-trust/) - Mission & Key Programs Five Valleys Land Trust has served the lands, waters, and communities of western Montana since 1972. We are driven by our mission, “To protect for future generations western Montana’s natural legacy—our water, wildlife habitats, agricultural lands, and community open spaces.” We accomplish this through our two main programs: conservation and stewardship. Our
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Ian Craighead](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-staff-meet-ian-craighead/) - Ian Craighead, Project Assistant What led you to choose a career in conservation? I had spent time in social work and environmental education and wanted to combine those loves, specifically in the realm of collaborative conservation. That led me back to school at the University of Montana, where I completed a degree in environmental studies
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Bear River Land Conservancy](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-bear-river-land-conservancy/) - Mission & Key Programs The mission of Bear River Land Conservancy is to preserve the benefits of land and water in Northern Utah and the Bear River Watershed for present and future generations. We do this by partnering with communities and landowners to permanently sustain the heritage of working lands and protect natural areas.Our key program
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Bitter Root Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-bitter-root-land-trust/) - Mission & Key Programs The Bitter Root Land Trust (BRLT) is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that works to protect the water, wildlife, working farms and ranches, and access to recreational lands that connect people to the beautiful open lands of the Bitterroot Valley, Montana. BRLT partners with willing landowners to implement voluntary conservation easements on
- [Carnivore Conflict Reduction Team Highlights Producers' Efforts and the Impact of Collaborative Partnerships](https://heart-of-rockies.org/carnivore-conflict-reduction-team-highlights-producers-efforts-and-the-impact-of-collaborative-partnerships/) - On May 6, Heart of the Rockies Initiative team members had the opportunity to highlight state funding to support producers engaged in carnivore conflict reduction efforts in the region through a media event at the Barnosky ranch near Sheridan, Montana. Governor Greg Gianforte, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Director Christy Clark, and members of the
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Flathead Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-flathead-land-trust/) - mission & key programs What Flathead Land Trust does is summed up in our mission statement: Protecting northwest Montana’s spectacular land and water legacy through community-based conservation. We collaborate with landowners, agencies, and the community to craft effective land conservation strategies. Our focus areas encompass landscapes with high biological value and seriously threatened natural resources, including
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Jim Williams](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-staff-meet-jim-williams/) - Jim Williams, Partnerships Manager Jim came to Heart of the Rockies Initiative in 2022 after a 31-year career as a biologist for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. His various leadership roles saw him managing big game populations, working with private agricultural landowners on wildlife tolerance issues, developing new conservation easements, leading research and wildlife management biologists,
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Teton Regional Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-teton-regional-land-trust/) - mission & key programs Teton Regional Land Trust’s mission is to conserve working farms and ranches, fish and wildlife habitat, and scenic open spaces in Eastern Idaho for this and future generations. In addition to land conservation, we also concentrate our efforts into stewardship projects, such as habitat restoration and ecological monitoring, and key programs
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Kara Maplethorpe](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-staff-meet-kara-maplethorpe/) - kara maplethorpe: rural initiatives manager Kara came to Heart of the Rockies Initiative from the Centennial Valley Association. She is known for her homemade orange rolls and her ability to boil water in a paper cup over a campfire, which comes in handy more often than you might think. At work, she enjoys listening, learning,
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-wyoming-stock-growers-land-trust/) - mission & key programs The Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust partners with private landowners to conserve working agricultural lands, which also provide open spaces, wildlife habitats, and other environmental benefits for generations to come. service area Across the state of Wyoming unique in the central rocky mountains Wyoming is home to over 28 million acres
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Amy Katz](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-staff-meet-amy-katz/) - Amy Katz, Conservation & GIS Manager Amy has worked with Heart of the Rockies Initiative since 2021. As a trained cartographer, she uses her skills to map wildlife connectivity and other scientific data across the region to help prioritize conservation initiatives, and serves our land trust members by providing insight into current science that affects
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Kaniksu Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-kaniksu-land-trust/) - mission & key programs Kaniksu Land Trust (KLT) cares for the lands and people of the Kaniksu Region, today, tomorrow, and forever. Our work aims to connect people with the land in meaningful ways and to collaborate with partners to implement innovative conservation solutions to real community challenges. In addition to partnering with landowners on conservation
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Nate Owens](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-staff-meet-nate-owens/) - Nate Owens, Policy Director Nate joined Heart of the Rockies Initiative as policy director in 2022. Having spent 10 years working for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources as an aquatics program manager focused on aquatic invasive species and boating access, he transitioned to the policy world, where he now focuses on legislation and policy
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Staff: Meet Kali Hannon](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-staff-meet-kali-hannon/) - Kali Hannon, Managing Director Kali joined Heart of the Rockies Initiative (the Initiative) as Development Director in 2018 and has served as managing director since 2022. With over ten years’ experience in nonprofit management, Kali leads development, human resources, equity, and internal operations at the Initiative. Kali is committed to conservation not only to protect wildlife, but
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Gallatin Valley Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-gallatin-valley-land-trust/) - mission & key programs Founded in 1990, Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT) has a mission to connect people, communities, and open lands through the conservation of working farms and ranches, healthy rivers, and wildlife habitat, and the creation of trails in the Montana headwaters of the Missouri and Upper Yellowstone Rivers. service area Since our
- [Land Trust Member Profile: The Vital Ground Foundation](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-the-vital-ground-foundation/) - Learn about The Vital Ground Foundation
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Trust for Public Land](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-trust-for-public-land/) - mission & key programs Trust for Public Land (TPL) works to connect everyone to the benefits of nature by creating parks, protecting land, and ensuring communities have access to the outdoors. In the Northern Rockies, we collaborate with local partners, landowners, and government agencies to conserve critical working landscapes, expand recreational opportunities, and strengthen the
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Prickly Pear Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-prickly-pear-land-trust/) - Photo credit for image of Birdseye ranch, above in header and below in body: Courtesy PPLT; photo by Kevin League Mission & Key Programs For 30 years, Prickly Pear Land Trust (PPLT) has connected land and people because what’s good for nature is good for all of us. PPLT is committed to inspiring connections to
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Lemhi Regional Land Trust](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-lemhi-regional-land-trust/) - mission & key programs Lemhi Regional Land Trust (LRLT) works to protect Central Idaho’s working lands, wildlife habitat, and open spaces. We partner with landowners and communities to keep ranches productive, preserve fish and wildlife corridors, and maintain the natural beauty of our region.Lemhi Regional Land Trust ensures Idaho’s landscapes remain healthy and thriving for
- [New Funding Available for Community-Led Bear Conflict Prevention](https://heart-of-rockies.org/new-funding-available-for-community-led-bear-conflict-prevention/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Monday, March 10, 2025 Contact: Nathan Owens, Policy Director Heart of the Rockies Initiative nathan@heart-of-rockies.org 801.870.0670 New Funding Available for Community-Led Bear Conflict Prevention Montanans living and working around grizzly bears are invited to apply for funding to help their communities adopt bear-resistant infrastructure and public education initiatives aimed at reducing human-wildlife
- [Land Trust Member Profile: Inland Northwest Land Conservancy](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-member-profile-inland-northwest-land-conservancy/) - Mission & key programs Inland Northwest Land Conservancy’s mission is to conserve, care for, and connect with lands and waters essential to life in the Inland Northwest. Our team works with our community to identify and protect special places throughout the region.In our key programs, we protect private lands through legal agreements with landowners. We
- [From the Map Files: Winter 2025](https://heart-of-rockies.org/from-the-map-files-winter-2025/) - By Amy Katz, Conservation & GIS Manager During the recent rare moments that I have not been dreaming of powder skiing, I have been thinking a lot about grass — particularly species such as mountain rough fescue, which stabilize soils across Eastern Montana and provide an important source of forage for bighorn sheep and mule
- [From the Map Files: Fall 2024](https://heart-of-rockies.org/from-the-map-files/) - By Amy Katz, Conservation & GIS ManagerWelcome to From the Map Files, a new, recurring series of posts highlighting wildlife connectivity science, breaking down aspects of our internal programmatic processes, and sharing maps and data. In this first post, I’ll focus on the essential role that science plays in how we serve our land trust
- [Carnivore Conflict Reduction: "Rural partnerships tackle wildlife conflicts"](https://heart-of-rockies.org/carnivore-conflict-reduction-rural-partnerships-tackle-wildlife-conflicts/) - A December guest column by Heart of the Rockies Initiative Policy Director Nate Owens and National Parks Conservation Association’s Alison Michalski in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle highlighted the impact of collaborative conservation in the Central Rocky Mountains. Follow this link to check out the article and learn more about how rural partnerships are tackling wildlife conflicts.
- [Rural Initiatives Program Supports Local Residents in Fundraising Effort to Restore the Yaak Community Hall ](https://heart-of-rockies.org/rural-initiatives-program-supports-local-residents-in-fundraising-effort-to-restore-the-yaak-community-hall/) - In February 2024, Heart of the Rockies Initiative’s Rural Initiatives program provided capacity support to the community of Yaak in their efforts to secure a Montana Historic Preservation Grant (MHPG) to fund renovations of the 100 year-old Yaak Community Hall. The Hall has served as an essential and much-loved gathering place in the remote community
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative 2024 Wrap-up](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-2024-wrap-up/) - Heart of the Rockies Initiative delivered impactful programs for our land trust members and partners in 2024 and made significant strides in our collaborative conservation efforts. Some of the highlights of our year:Land Trust SupportService to regional land trusts grew In 2024, as we welcomed a new member — Elk Valley Land Trust — bringing
- [State Secures Funds to Help Landowners Prevent Wildlife Conflicts](https://heart-of-rockies.org/state-secures-funds-to-help-landowners-prevent-wildlife-conflicts/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Tuesday, October 29, 2024 Contact: Nathan Owens, Policy Director Heart of the Rockies Initiative nathan@heart-of-rockies.org 801.870.0670 State Secures Funds to Help Landowners Prevent Wildlife Conflicts Investment will bolster range rider programs, build electric fencing, and limit wildlife attractants in rural communities MISSOULA, MT — The State of Montana has received new funds
- [Landowner Service Day at Iverson Ranch](https://heart-of-rockies.org/landowner-service-day-at-iverson-ranch/) - In August, partners from the High Divide Collaborative worked alongside volunteers from One Montana’s Master Hunter program to remove barbed wire fence from Iverson Ranch in Potomac, Montana. Landowner Service Days are one way that these groups support ranchers and producers like the Iverson family who steward essential land in the High Divide. Video directed by Joel DeMay
- [Heart of the Rockies Initiative Carnivore Conflict Reduction Efforts in the News](https://heart-of-rockies.org/heart-of-the-rockies-initiative-carnivore-conflict-reduction-efforts-in-the-news/) - Heart of the Rockies Initiative’s ongoing work to support essential Carnivore Conflict Reduction efforts in our region are focused on maintaining producer viability and ensuring wildlife has the space it needs to survive. It’s work that is very much a collaborative effort, says Policy Director Nate Owens.“Thanks to all of our partners who are helping
- [Getting Wild with Jim: Historical Wolverine Anecdotes](https://heart-of-rockies.org/getting-wild-with-jim-historical-wolverine-anecdotes/) - In November 2023, it made the news: Wolverines received protection as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The North American wolverine was being listed as a distinct population segment in the contiguous U.S. What does that mean? Why? Experts believe that there are fewer than 400 of the animals left in the lower
- [Gavin Ricklefs Joins Heart of the Rockies Initiative](https://heart-of-rockies.org/gavin-ricklefs-joins-heart-of-the-rockies-initiative/) - We are so happy to share exciting news: Heart of the Rockies Initiative will welcome Gavin Ricklefs as a managing director in October. For the past 17 years, Gavin has served as executive director of Bitter Root Land Trust, where he has grown the Hamilton, Montana based organization to become a trusted community partner and Heart of the Rockies Initiative welcomes Gavin Ricklefs as Managing Director.

## Pages

- [Home](https://heart-of-rockies.org/) - Heart of the Rockies Initiative We create connections to support and scale private land conservation Heart of the Rockies is a Regional partnership of 30 land trusts We support land trusts across the Rocky Mountain West in keeping family farms, ranches, and timberlands in family hands through capacity assistance, collaborative fundraising, data sharing, and networking.
- [Impact Report](https://heart-of-rockies.org/impact-report/) - Powered By EmbedPress Powered By EmbedPress
- [About Us](https://heart-of-rockies.org/who-we-are/) - Our Why Heart of the Rockies Initiative was formed with the premise that by working together over the large central Rocky Mountain landscape, the Initiative’s land trust members can tell a bigger, more compelling story to build broader recognition of the region’s conservation values, bring more funding resources to the region, better conserve landscape scaled
- [Land Trust Partnership](https://heart-of-rockies.org/land-trust-partnerships/) - land trust Support scaling efforts to conserve working landsand wildlife habitat in the Transboundary Rocky Mountains supportinG land trust members in the transboundary rocky mountains to scale conservation Heart of the Rockies Initiative (the Initiative) is a land trust membership organization headquartered in Missoula, Montana. We support 30 land trust across five U.S. states (Idaho, Montana,
- [Grants](https://heart-of-rockies.org/ccr/grants/) - financial and technical assistance Learn about financial support that may be available to help mitigate conflicts between carnivores, livestock, and communities. Applications will soon be available for two new funding programs to help Montanans proactively protect livestock and communities. applications are available for two new funding Programs help Montanans Mitigate Conflicts Between Carnivores, Livestock, and
- [ccr](https://heart-of-rockies.org/ccr/) - Carnivore Conflict Reduction Supporting Collaborative Efforts to Maintain the Viability and Legacy of Working Lands Farmers and ranchers are the backbone of rural communities throughout the Transboundary Rocky Mountains. For decades, these agricultural producers have pioneered techniques to prevent wildlife conflicts before they happen, helping to maintain agricultural operations and rural communities in the region.As
- [Support Our Work](https://heart-of-rockies.org/donate/) - Donate HELP Us Meet our Mission: To ensure connected habitat and working lands for people and wildlife by increasing the pace of durable conservation in the transboundary Rockies of North America. When you make a gift to Heart of the Rockies Initiative, your donation has a lasting impact on the conservation of private lands that
- [Contact Us](https://heart-of-rockies.org/contact-us/) - Need our help? want to get involved? have a question? please send us a message Full Name Email Address Message SUBMIT Staff List JoAnn Grant, Managing Director joann@heart-of-rockies.org Gavin Ricklefs, Managing Director gavin@heart-of-rockies.org Gary Burnett, Director Emeritus gary@heart-of-rockies.org Emily Harkness, Community Engagement Manager emily@heart-of-rockies.org Amy Katz, Conservation Director amy@heart-of-rockies.org Hannah Leonard, Keep It Connected
- [What We Do](https://heart-of-rockies.org/what-we-do/) - conserving a landscape of hope and opportunity The Transboundary Rocky Mountains of North America span an unparalleled geography of wide-open spaces. Home to iconic mountain ranges, free-flowing rivers, lush valleys, timberlands, and sage-covered hillsides, this landscape has supported wildlife and agricultural economies for generations.But today, we are experiencing extraordinary economic and demographic pressure. If this
- [High Divide Landscape Conservation Design Phase I Report](https://heart-of-rockies.org/high-divide-landscape-conservation-design-phase-i-report/) - High Divide Landscape Conservation Design Phase I Report Powered By EmbedPress
- [careers](https://heart-of-rockies.org/careers/) - Careers We do not currently have any job openings. Heart of the Rockies Initiative believes conservation works best when it reflects the full breadth of human experience. Our team is committed to creating a welcoming, respectful environment where people from all backgrounds can contribute, grow, and thrive. We are proud to be an
- [Rural Development](https://heart-of-rockies.org/rural-initiatives/) - Rural Development Rural Initiatives The Mountain West is now experiencing economic and demographic pressure that is changing how the landscape supports western communities.Our Rural Initiatives program provides support to rural community members as they take charge of how change occurs in their own communities. The Rural Initiatives program, when invited by community partners, such as
- [HDC](https://heart-of-rockies.org/hdc/) - High Divide Collaborative WORKING TOGETHER TO CONSERVE AND RESTORE LANDS OF IMPORTANCE FOR LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND TO PROTECT ECOLOGICAL INTEGRITY AT THE LANDSCAPE SCALE The High Divide Collaborative is a conservation network in the High Divide region of Montana and Idaho. The only project of its kind in the region, it brings together over 200
- [Where We Work](https://heart-of-rockies.org/where-we-work/) - the heart of the rockies initiative works across the transboundary rocky mountains of north america Heart of the Heart of the Rockies Initiative is a land trust membership supporting 30 land trusts across five U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to conserve the land, water, and wildlife of the Transboundary Rocky Mountains of North America.
- [Mission, Vision, and Values](https://heart-of-rockies.org/who-we-are/mission-vision-and-values/) - Our Mission our mission To ensure connected habitat and working lands for people and wildlife by increasing the pace of durable conservation in the Transboundary Rocky Mountains of North America. Our Vision our vision We envision a region where actively engaged people and communities work together across geographic and organizational boundaries to protect, restore, and
- [News](https://heart-of-rockies.org/headlines/) - HEADLINES Partner Profile: Choteau Area Port Authority July 10, 2026 Partner Profile: Choteau Area Port Authority The city of Choteau, Montana is located in north central Montana at the foot of the Rocky Mountain Front. Read More » Keep It Connected June 24, 2026 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJRH-hyIvYE&t=6s The Transboundary Rocky Mountains is a geography of hope and
- [JEI](https://heart-of-rockies.org/equity/) - Our Commitment to Equity As Heart of the Rockies Initiative works to ensure connected habitat and working lands for people and wildlife, we do so with an understanding that conservation is inextricably linked with justice and equity. In order to make a difference in the field of conservation, we must continually explore and address our
- [Transparency](https://heart-of-rockies.org/transparency/) - Transperancy Determination Letter Articles of Incorporation - Soon By-Laws - coming soon Conflict of Interest Policy - soon 2022 990 - Coming Soon 2022 Audit - Coming Soon 2021 990 2021 Audit 2020 990 2020 Audit
- [Privacy Policy](https://heart-of-rockies.org/privacy-policy/) - privacy policy IntroductionHeart of the Rockies Initiative (“we” or “us”) values its visitors’ privacy. This privacy policy is effective August 1, 2022; it summarizes what information we might collect from a registered user or other visitor (“you”), and what we will and will not do with it.Please note that this privacy policy does not govern

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