Our History

In 1972, conservation-minded citizens in the Missoula area recognized that the natural landscape of their community could change dramatically as residential and commercial growth soared. They believed the time was right to join together to seek practical ways to protect the stream corridors, wildlife habitat and remarkable natural beauty of the surrounding five Valleys. The newly formed Five Valleys River Parks Association quickly became the catalyst for creating the riverfront park system through Missoula.

In 1989 the Association expanded its conservation capabilities and mission beyond the City of Missoula into Western Montana and the Five Valleys Land Trust was born. Five Valleys expanded again in 1995, welcoming the Rock Creek Trust as a special project with a focus solely on the “Blue Ribbon” drainage.  Rock Creek remains one of Five Valleys' highest priorities.