A Gift to the Future: 60 Acres Near Jewel Basin Permanently Protected

A 60-acre tract of relatively undeveloped land near the foothills of Jewel Basin is now permanently protected, providing secure open space and a sanctuary for wildlife. Through a new conservation easement with Flathead Land Trust, this ecologically diverse parcel will be preserved as a permanent wild buffer to the Swan Mountains in perpetuity.

Stewardship and Collaborative Conservation

Gifted to a local institution in 2013 with the intent of long-term preservation, the property north of Echo Lake has served as an educational resource, a personal sanctuary and open space for wildlife.

Ryan Hunter, Land Protection Specialist and Flathead Land Trust’s lead on the project, shared his perspective on the project: “We greatly appreciate the parties involved in conserving this beautiful property below the Swan Mountains. Their commitment to conservation ensures that this property will remain welcoming to an abundance of wildlife.”

Connectivity to Public Lands

This project expands on existing open space, providing an additional layer of protection to a significant block of undeveloped habitat. Bordered on two sides by state land and connected to thousands of acres of Flathead National Forest beyond, the easement adds to a vast, landscape-scale expanse of undeveloped habitat.

Ecological and Wildlife Values

A vibrant landscape mosaic in the foothills, the newly protected property safeguards a diverse array of natural habitats and is heavily frequented by wildlife descending from the Swan Mountains. The land transitions from a large open meadow to mixed coniferous forests of western hemlock, white pine, and grand fir interspersed with seasonal wetlands. Featuring a vernal pond and a mix of forests and grasslands, this area provides high-quality habitats with essential foraging and secure cover for iconic native species like grizzly bears, moose, and deer.

Preserving the Quiet Character of the Foothills

For years, this quiet landscape has served as a private sanctuary. Nestled on the property is a small, unoccupied cabin and a few rustic structures, including a simple shed once used as a secluded writing studio. By protecting this open space from large scale development, a serene refuge with incredible views of the Swan Mountains is preserved while safeguarding its intact wildlife habitat.

The permanent protection of this land ensures a vibrant future for the Jewel Basin area’s community and wildlife alike. Preserving the iconic viewsheds enjoyed by the public, this conservation easement permanently secures the quiet character of the landscape while providing a vital, undisturbed haven for wildlife on the edge of an expansive forested network.