Last February, the Pheasants Forever Organization purchased approximately 279 acres of mixed riparian/wetland, grass prairie, and dryland crop ground 45 minutes North of Great Falls along the Teton River. Since that time, they have continued to develop what will be called the Teton River Wildlife Area as habitat for pheasants and as hunting access.

The property is located immediately west of I-15, 40 miles north of Great Falls. It is adjacent on its eastern side to the southbound rest area on I-15, near exit 320. Situated in the Teton River watershed, the area sits on the north side of the river approximately 1.5 miles downstream of the confluence with Muddy Creek.

According to Chad Harvey, Regional Representative for the Montana Pheasants Forever Organization, the purchase was made through a combination of local chapter and partner funding. "These previously private acres are now open to the general public for recreational access, including hunting and fishing. Continued support from our chapters and conservation partners aim to improve habitat and land management for the benefit of upland birds and other wildlife," Harvey said.

The Teton River property supports a diversity of wildlife, corresponding to the various core habitat elements that are present on site. Grasslands songbirds, upland game birds, migratory waterfowl, predatory raptors, deer and moose have all been observed using the property in the last year.

"Pheasants Forever intends to manage this property for multiple uses, primarily wildlife habitat and recreation. Some land will also be put to agricultural use, with the ultimate goal of sustaining a mosaic of habitat elements for multiple wildlife species," Harvey explained. "Future acquisitions look to connect a contiguous piece of key habitat along the river corridor to increase the size of the complex," he added.