The Pryor Mountains of south-central Montana are rich in rare botanical resources, diverse wildlife and many cultural and archeological sites.
But off-road vehicles are marring this region, which is home to bighorn sheep, black bear, elk, mule deer, bobcats, mountain lions, golden eagles and peregrine falcons, among others. Another threat is looming as industry submits proposals to expand and develop new limestone quarries here. The Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service have joint management over the range, and there are state and private lands as well. The Montana Wilderness Association, Sierra Club and Audubon Society are forming a coalition to meet with agency leaders to push for a coordinated plan to protect the resources of the Pryors, particularly the roadless areas.
Photo courtesy Gary Leppart. |
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The Pryors are known among botanists as a "biological hotspot" because of the many rare and sensitive species found in the area. These mountains are also of deep cultural value to the Crow Tribe of Native Americans, whose rock art can be found in the area.
What
you can do: As the coalition pursues protection for the Pryors,
help will be needed. To see how you can make a difference here,
contact Christine Phillips,