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Commission adopts ADLC Open Lands Trails and Recreation Plan after revisions addressing hunting and multi-use language
Summary
The commission unanimously approved the revised Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Open Lands Trails and Recreation Plan. Revisions clarified that hunting will remain allowed (signage recommended Sept. 1–Dec. 1) and replaced 'mountain bike optimized' language with 'balance multi-use design.' Public commenters and local organizations voiced strong support.
The Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Commission voted Jan. 20 to adopt the revised ADLC Open Lands Trails and Recreation Plan following a report from committee representative Rich Keeland and multiple public speakers supporting the plan.
Keeland said the committee made two edits after recent public feedback: the plan now explicitly acknowledges that "hunting is an appropriate recreational opportunity on ADLC Open Lands" and recommends trailhead signage noting that hunting may occur from Sept. 1 to Dec. 1. He also said the plan’s previous phrase calling for "mountain bike optimized" trail character was changed to language promoting a "balance [of] multi-use design" to better accommodate all users.
Speakers at the meeting included Tiffany Rehbein, Anaconda School District superintendent, who said, "I am in strong support of the Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Open Lands Trails and Recreation Plan," emphasizing youth access and stewardship. Ken Connors, a local resident and land representative, told commissioners he believed the $1,900,000.00 estimated for the project would be sufficient when combined with leveraged grants: "I think the $1,900,000.00 that would go for the trails would go a long way for what's been designed." Other supporters — including the Anaconda Sportsman's Club, Discover Anaconda and volunteer trail groups — highlighted erosion control, maintenance partnerships and economic benefits to downtown businesses.
The plan’s revisions also responded to concerns about user conflicts and safety: Keeland said signage should make users aware hunting may occur during the specified window and the trail-design language was adjusted to emphasize inclusivity rather than bike-centric optimization. Commissioner Ed Beaudette said the plan will help reduce erosion on the hills south of town and leverage grant funding for restoration and maintenance.
The commission approved the plan by a 5-0 vote. No formal conditions or changes beyond the committee revisions were attached to the County’s acceptance.
