Cedar Creek, continued

We have been working in collaboration with the Lolo National Forest, Montana Dept. of Fish, Wildlife and Parks and the conservation-minded landowner to assure that the property will move into public ownership and be managed to protect the critical fish habitat. With the help of a substantial contribution from the Westslope Chapter of Trout Unlimited to cover appraisal costs and an option consideration, we have entered into an agreement with the landowner for the purchase of the property. Along with those partner agencies and the Westslope Chapter of TU, we have been seeking the funds necessary to meet the $425,000 appraised value of the property.

With substantial commitments from a variety of sources, we are now within sight of successfully attaining that goal. At the close of 2005, the partners had secured solid commitments for $375,000.00 of the necessary $425,000.00. The target date to exercise the option is April 15, 2006 and we are confident that the necessary support to complete the purchase will become available by then.

At closing, the land will be transferred into the ownership of the U.S. Forest Service. The successful completion of this project will provide another fine example of the importance of collaborative efforts in the service of real, on-the-ground conservation. At FVLT, we feel fortunate to be able to assist in this worthy effort.