Anaconda Deer Lodge County approves revised Open Lands, Trails and Recreation Plan

Anaconda Deer Lodge County’s commission unanimously approved a revised Open Lands, Trails and Recreation Plan on Jan. 20, adopting committee edits that explicitly acknowledge hunting on ADLC open lands and change trail-character language to emphasize multi-use design.

Rich Keelan, a steering committee member, told the commission the committee made two substantive changes after public feedback: the plan now states that hunting "is acknowledged as an appropriate recreational opportunity on ADLC open lands," and trailhead signage should note that hunting may occur from Sept. 1 to Dec. 1 so the public can recreate safely. Keelan said the plan also replaces a line that described trails as "mountain bike optimized" with wording calling for "multi-use design" that promotes a positive experience for all users.

The change was framed in part as an environmental and erosion-control effort. Commissioner Bodette said the plan offers an opportunity to address erosion on two mountain slopes south of town and cited potential leverage with grant programs and restoration goals. Bodette said the steering committee’s approach is forward-looking and will help restore hillside vegetation and reduce off-trail erosion.

Members of the public and local organizations spoke in favor. Tiffany Rehbein, who identified herself as superintendent of the Anaconda School District, said the plan "is more than just about trails" and urged the commission to approve it because it supports student health, outdoor learning and community stewardship. Gary Oldhouse, president of the Anaconda Sportsman's Club, said the club "supports this open lands plan" and that the project will reduce chaotic use and recognize wildlife habits. Stacy Connors and Christine Smith, local residents and business/nonprofit leaders, described the plan as thoughtfully developed and recommended approval. Christine Smith, president of a local nonprofit that maintains trails under a U.S. Forest Service agreement, warned against installing permanent garbage receptacles that could attract inappropriate dumping.

Ken Connors, speaking in support, said the roughly "$1,900,000.0 that would go for the trails would go a long way" toward the design and said community fundraising and additional grants could reduce local costs. Keelan and others noted that the plan’s funding approach anticipates leveraging other grant programs.

After discussion and public comment, Commissioner Beausoleil moved to approve the ADLC Open Lands, Trails and Recreation Plan as revised; the motion passed unanimously.

The plan, updated 01/15/2026, will proceed with the committee’s revisions and recommended signage. Commissioners said next steps include pursuing funding and coordinating maintenance with volunteer groups and federal partners where appropriate.