Working together to find common ground in natural resources management.

Forest Management

We support Increasing the pace and scale of active management of forest lands to reduce wildfire risk to our communities, improve forest health, and sustainably harvest suitable timber lands.

Recreation

We’re committed to enhancing and diversifying year-round recreational opportunities for both motorized and non-motorized activities.

Conservation

We support protection and enhancement of wildlife habitat, clean water, and the use of sustainable management practices. We support permanent protection for priority wildlands in the Kootenai National Forest.

Economy

Empowering flourishing communities through strategic utilization of Kootenai Forest’s resources for sustained prosperity and growth.

Unifying Kootenai’s Future

These businesses and organizations have endorsed the efforts and collaborative process of the Kootenai Forest Stakeholders Coalition.

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We believe that the brightest days for northwest Montana are ahead of us.

Testimonals from your neighbors

Living in Lincoln County is a true blessing. With the beautiful atmosphere of rural Montana mixed with amazing outdoor opportunities year round, life is always an adventure. By collaboratively working together for the future, northwestern Montana will remain a place to live life to the fullest.
Tracy McIntyre
Montana Memories and Events, Eureka
I moved to the base of the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness, a more rural part of Montana, to work on the roadblocks to community prosperity. Our collective and careful evaluation of natural resources and management (our ‘treasures’) in the Kootenai National Forest will safeguard our area for generations and support diverse aspirations.
Tina Oliphant
Kootenai River Development Council/Lincoln County Port authority
The Three Rivers Challenge opened the door and helped this community realize that we don’t have to live in an “either-or” world regarding the use of our local natural resources. The Kootenai Stakeholders Group has not only swung the door wide open, but has kicked it off its hinges.
Tim Linehan
Linehan Outfitting Co., Troy
The map of northwestern Montana is surrounded by the green of public forests that I cherish for all they symbolize. Opening a business in Libby has inspired life-altering decisions and being surrounded by people with similarly adventurous spirits has been a terrific opportunity.
Kristin Smith
Co-owner, Cabinet Mountain Brewing, Libby
The KNF is so many things to so many people – the source of our livelihoods, the place we recreate, where we harvest food – that deciding what its future should look like is complicated and sometimes contentious. But here’s what I’m learning: we don’t actually have to choose one future at the cost of the others. We can, in this case, have it all. The firm belief that the Kootenai National Forest can provide for all of us is why I’m proud to be a member of the Kootenai Forest Stakeholders Coalition
Angelo Alderete
Citizen and volunteer, Thompson Falls
Those around the table connect with the Kootenai National Forest in many ways. It is where we work, raise our families, create memories, build friendships, share experiences and build a life. Our shared esteem for the Kootenai National Forest is the common bond from which solutions flow.
Paul McKenzie
Lands & Resource Manager, F.H. Stoltze Land & Lumber, Columbia Falls
Northwestern Montana is a paradise when it comes to recreation — snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, wood cutting, berry picking, hiking, and just breathing the fresh air. Working together with varied groups gives me a perspective of their vision for the future. We may not always agree, but we respect each others’ vision and goals.
Jerry Wandler
Troy Snowmobile Club, Troy
Being able to retire in NW Montana has been a true blessing. With over 2 million acres of public lands and the multitude of recreational opportunities that exist will keep all outdoor enthusiasts enjoying the great outdoors of NW Montana
Scott Mattheis
Montanans For Multiple Use, North Lincoln County Chapter
Montana was founded on it’s natural resources and we’re all here for one reason or another because of this. We need to continue working together and talking about our challenges. This is the only path forward.
Shawn Morgan
Thompson River Lumber, Inc
Water quality and quantity is intensely important to us at Ducks Unlimited. We support decisions and management actions that maintain or enhance wetland resources. Wetland habitats are critical for the survival and health of a myriad species. For these reasons, Ducks Unlimited supports the local efforts of the Kootenai Forest Stakeholders Coalition.
Jon Jeresek
President, Kootenai Valley Ducks Unlimited 

We know that working together for timber, recreation, wilderness and prosperous communities is possible with 2.2 million acres of local public lands.

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