HELENA, Mont. — Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen cast the deciding vote in conditionally approving one of the largest public access acquisitions in northwest Montana during Monday’s monthly Land Board meeting.

The acquisition, known as the Montana Great Outdoors Conservation Easement, Phase 1, approved a Fish Wildlife & Parks (FWP) purchase of nearly 33,000 acres between Kalispell and Libby. According to Montana FWP, the acquisition “provides a vital migration corridor and year-round habitat for moose, elk, mule deer, and white-tailed deer.”

Secretary Jacobsen proposed a motion to clarify that the Land Board’s intent with the FWP acquisition does not diminish third-party mineral owners’ rights, which would be explicitly stated in the language of the Conservation Easement.

“Montana is the Treasure State for many reasons, but the original reason is due to her wealth of resources,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “It’s important for this acquisition to protect both the surface and mineral rights to continue responsible natural resource development.”

“As an avid user of public lands and a fourth-generation Montanan, I’m proud and honored to protect the Montana way of life by ensuring public access remains available to hunters and anglers, hikers and runners, and every Montanan looking to enjoy our beautiful state. My voice will always support Montana remaining the Last Best Place and the Treasure State.”