Millions in MT Wildlife Funds Now Available to Public

Funds from recreational marijuana taxes to support conservation projects across the state.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Montana Legislature has passed a law investing millions of dollars in wildlife habitat, public access, and outdoor recreation, with the funds coming from recreational marijuana taxes. The public can now apply for grants to support conservation projects like improving trail access, installing wildlife crossings, restoring rangeland, and treating invasive weeds. An event in Kalispell this week will provide more information on how to access these funds.

Why it matters

This new funding source represents a shift in how Montana approaches wildlife conservation, allowing more direct community involvement and empowering private landowners to undertake habitat improvement projects. The funds could have a significant impact on protecting the state's natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities.

The details

The $32 million in funding over the next two years can be used for a variety of conservation projects, including improving trail access, installing wildlife crossings, restoring rangeland, conserving water, and treating invasive weeds. Unlike previous conservation funding that primarily went to state agencies, this money is available directly to community members and private landowners.

  • The Montana Legislature passed the law funding these conservation efforts last session.
  • The first Montana Land and Legacy Tour stop will be held on February 26, 2026 in Kalispell from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to provide more information to the public.
  • Additional tour stops are planned for this spring in Billings and Livingston.

The players

Jenny Cloutier

Executive director of the Flatland Avalanche Center, which could use the funds to maintain weather stations that provide avalanche forecasting data.

Montana Conservation Voters Education Fund

One of the groups planning the Montana Land and Legacy Tour events across the state.

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What they’re saying

“We can provide up-to-date information for the public as trail users are making decisions – in particular, winter trail users – are making decisions about their own safety and terrain choices.”

— Jenny Cloutier, Executive Director, Flatland Avalanche Center (statenews.net)

“Having ways to be able to protect and care for those lands and our private lands, I think, is a really excellent use of this funding.”

— Jenny Cloutier, Executive Director, Flatland Avalanche Center (statenews.net)

What’s next

The first Montana Land and Legacy Tour stop will be held on February 26, 2026 in Kalispell from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to provide more information to the public on how to access the conservation funds.

The takeaway

This new funding source from recreational marijuana taxes represents a shift in how Montana approaches wildlife conservation, allowing more direct community involvement and empowering private landowners to undertake habitat improvement projects. The $32 million available over the next two years could have a significant impact on protecting the state's natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities.