Beth Shumate Hosts Grand Opening Celebration for Milltown State Park

The Milltown State Park Dedication took place on July 18, 2025, in Missoula, Montana, marking a significant milestone for the community and the state. The event was led by Beth Shumate, the Montana State Parks administrator, who expressed her excitement as the emcee for the celebration, despite the rainy weather.

Shumate highlighted the rich history of the area, noting that it spans thousands of years. She emphasized the collaborative efforts over the past 15 years that made the grand opening of Milltown State Park possible. To engage the audience, she introduced a trivia segment about the park, offering prizes for correct answers.

During the trivia, attendees were asked about the size of Milltown State Park. After some guesses, it was revealed that the park comprises 627 acres, with a participant coming close to the correct answer.

The event also featured an opening honor song performed by the Yaman suit singers, adding a cultural touch to the celebration. Overall, the dedication served as a testament to the community's dedication to preserving and celebrating the natural and historical significance of Milltown State Park.