Hello Blackfoot River Community!

Because of your continued support and public pressure, the proposed 64-acre gravel pit and asphalt operation along the Blackfoot River corridor has been paused. Missoula County has voided the previous zoning compliance application and informed the developer that a new application with additional details would be required before any county-level review could move forward.

This is an important moment — but it also highlights a much bigger issue.

The Blackfoot River corridor is currently unzoned and vulnerable. Without clear land-use protections in place, this area remains exposed to future industrial proposals that could impact water quality, wildlife habitat, recreation, and community health.

Because of this, we are asking Missoula County to initiate a protective land-use planning process and adopt corridor safeguards that protect water quality, wildlife habitat, and community health before any incompatible industrial development moves forward.

We are also continuing to request a public community meeting so residents can share ongoing concerns, directly ask questions, and participate in shaping the future of this river corridor.

Lastly, because of House Bill 599, we are calling on Missoula County to provide clear public notice for any future gravel or industrial permit applications so communities are informed early and can participate in the process.

✊ How You Can Help Right Now:

• Continue sharing this petition

• Sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date at our website blackfootrivercommunity.org

• Donate for lawn signs and outreach at our Protect the Blackfoot River campaign. 

• Stay Connected: Blackfoot River Community Facebook Page & Instagram: @blackfootrivercommunity

• Contact the Missoula County Commissioners to support the following:

📣 Call (406) 258-4877      📩 Email bcc@missoulacounty.us

Copy and paste the message below to message the Missoula County Commissioners:

Hello Commissioners,

I am writing as a Missoula County resident to ask the County to take proactive steps to protect the Blackfoot River corridor.

Because this area is currently unzoned and vulnerable, I urge the County to initiate a protective land-use planning process and establish corridor zoning or overlay safeguards that prevent incompatible industrial development.

I am also asking the County to hold a public community meeting so residents can participate early and meaningfully in decisions that affect our water, wildlife, and community health. Lastly, I ask that the County require clear public notice for future gravel, asphalt, or industrial permit applications.

Thank you for your time, leadership, and service to Missoula County.

Sincerely,

[Name]
[City/Neighborhood]
 ______________________________________________________________________________

We are not giving up. Thousands of Missoula County residents, supporters from across Montana and around the world have joined this movement, and together our voices are making a difference. The pause on this project shows what’s possible when communities stand up — but this is not the finish line. It’s the moment to come together and build long-term protection for the Blackfoot River, because industrial development does not belong in a place this special and irreplaceable. 

Thank you for standing up for the Blackfoot River and for the future of this place we all love.

The Blackfoot River and all lifeforms Thank You for your support 🌊♥️🌲