Open Lands

Missoula County is comprised of a diverse mix of forests, grasslands, agricultural lands and water resources spread across private and public land and connect to large, intact ecosystems with vibrant communities. Missoula County's Open Lands program is focused on connecting communities, private landowners, local organizations and agencies with resources and opportunities to conserve these important resources.

Missoula County's Open Lands division works alongside the  Open Lands Citizen Advisory Committee to review applications for Open Space Bond funding projects. 

The purpose of the Missoula County Open Lands Citizen Advisory Committee (OLC) is to advise the Board of County Commissioners and represent the citizens of Missoula County in the protection and preservation of open space and rural lifestyles for present and future generations.

The OLC advises and assists the Commissioners in:

• reviewing and implementing plans, policies, programs, and regulatory and non-regulatory tools that support or impact open space and rural lifestyles;
• implementation of the Open Space Bond program through initial review of applications and funding recommendations to conserve open space, in accordance with the Open Space Bond Program’s Interlocal Agreement;
• outreach and two-way communication with rural communities relative to open space and rural lifestyles.

The OLC collaborates with County staff across departments and with other city and county advisory committees to fulfill these responsibilities.

The OLC also works on additional projects related to its purpose including the annual Land Steward Award and creating and disseminating community resources for Missoula County landowners focused on forest and agricultural land best practices, wildlife habitat management and considerations, water conservation and more.