Montana School Trust Land

Those little blue squares on land-ownership maps have long been treasured by hunters, as they exist all across Montana and often comprise the only public land for miles. Over five million acres were allocated at statehood to generate revenue for public schools, in perpetuity. For decades, much of that land was leased out for logging, mining, and grazing, with little to no friction between the lessees and the general public. Over time, as the state population grew, conflicts between recreationists and lessees—particularly ranchers & outfitters—increased, culminating in lawsuits and rule changes that ultimately established full, legal access, without lessee permission, in 1988. Today, thanks to tireless efforts of a few committed sportsmen, all manner of outdoor enthusiast—hikers, bikers, bird-watchers, skiers, et al-enjoy unencumbered access to almost three million acres of school-trust land. But with the state population still increasing, access to the remaining two-plus million acres has become contentious yet again. As the next chapter in the fight for access unfolds, here are some numbers to consider.