— By Brandon Bert, Rattlesnake Valley Landowner

I currently live in California, but grew up in Missoula. I knew I always wanted to come back someday, own land and a place of my own. However, I didn’t think the opportunity would come so quickly.  About eight months ago, my father Steve, found an incredible piece of property in the Upper Rattlesnake. After a tour of the redwood cabin and long walk around the property, we both knew this was home.

Four round trip tickets later, and after enjoying the land in three different seasons, I have a great appreciation for its natural beauty.  From the top of our hill, one observes an amazing 360-degree view of the Hellgate Canyon, Bitterroot Valley, Snowbowl and the entire city of Missoula.  The Missoula valley has grown tremendously since I moved away, and I can already see signs of urban sprawl and development, even in the Rattlesnake. 

Andy and I knew we wanted to ensure the pristine beauty of the land and preserve it from future development.  It was also extremely important to us to protect the wildlife.  We’ve learned that the Grant Creek elk herd is splitting and up to 200 elk spend time wintering in our hay meadow.  There are countless deer around our property and bears, turkeys, eagles, cougars, and numerous species of birds frequent the property.  It is our desire to ensure these animals can find their natural habitat.

Our real estate agent recommended Five Valleys to us.  They did a great job explaining all the benefits of an easement and working with us to customize the easement to our property and desires.  My father, who lives in Missoula, was instrumental in bringing the easement to fruition.  Our families plan on spending considerable time on the property in the future.  Both Andy and myself feel a strong sense of achievement knowing that our property will be protected forever, and future generations will get to enjoy the land as we currently enjoy it.”