Restore Montana

Restore Montana works to promote and strengthen a restoration economy that integrates ecological, economic and social well-being to benefit the health and value of Montana's communities and natural heritage.

Catalyzed by Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer’s Restoration Forum in June 2006 (http://www.restorationforum.mt.gov/), these interests are coming together as the Restore Montana network. To date, the network includes over 40 community leaders representing business and industry, labor, state universities, government, sportsmen and conservation interests.

Wildlands CPR has played an integral role in forming Restore Montana. We will continue our involvement as Restore Montana works to create a robust, dynamic economy that thrives in both rural and urban parts of the state.

The restoration of damaged lands and waters and the revitalization of deteriorating community assets across Montana present multiple opportunities to benefit businesses, workers, communities, wildlife, and water quality. Montana is in a position to lead the West in developing a restoration economy that attracts investment and creates “green-collar” jobs with local employers while enhancing our land, water and communities. Combining restoration of the natural environment in the same effort as revitalization of the built environment provides an innovative and holistic model that incorporates diverse interests.

Restore Montana has already contributed to the state’s and the region’s growing commitment to expanding the restoration economy. A unique range of leaders affiliated with Restore Montana worked closely with the Governor and testified before the state legislature this year. As a result, the Montana legislature established a Restoration Office that will be staffed by a State Restoration Specialist who has funds for database development and project coordination. The legislature also appropriated $34 million in new funds for on-the-ground restoration projects in Montana.

Our Restoration News in Montana:
Wildlands CPR Leads Collaborative Group on Restoration Principles

Related Restoration News in Montana:
Governor touts state's booming 'restoration economy'. Michael Moore, Missoulian. October 4, 2007.