The Madison Conservation District and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) invite farmers, landowners, conservation partners, and community members to participate in the 2026 Madison Valley Local Working Group Meeting. Local Working Groups are part of NRCS’s locally led conservation process…
The Land Stewardship Workshop for Small Acreages brings together natural resource professionals from across the region to share information and resources on topics relevant to small-acreage landowners. This collaborative event is hosted by the Madison Conservation District, Natural Resources Conservation…
As part of our new Cost Share Programs, the Madison Conservation District has developed a Native Grass Seed Establishment Guide to help landowners plan, plant, and establish native grass seed mixes. The guide includes information on MCD-recommended seed mixes for…
With record breaking temperatures this past summer the lakes and rivers of Montana were packed with individuals just trying to keep cool; packing up from one lake to the next to experience the multitude of locations available to help beat…
Since the dawn of time farming and agriculture have been a long-standing custom in producing and sustaining life, from our crops, to wildlife, to livestock, to humans. Over the years certain practices have begun to threaten the sustainability of farming…
In Southwest Montana, the connection between land and health runs deeper than we often realize. In Southwest Montana, our lives are interconnected with the land. From the rivers that boast recreators throughout the summer, to the valleys that support cattle…
Part of what makes Montana such a beautiful place to live is our vast open Rangelands, which make up nearly 70% of the state. Rangelands are wide open spaces not covered by water, trees, crops, cities, or pavement. These areas…
The Madison Conservation District is excited to partner with Sacred Pine Ranch in McAlister, MT to host a free screening of the Common Ground Redux Film. This special 45 minute documentary shares direct testimony from American farmers, ranchers, educators, and…
Wetlands are important features of our natural landscape, providing numerous benefits for people and wildlife. These highly productive and diverse ecosystems enhance water quality, control erosion, maintain stream flows, and provide valuable habitat. A wetland is a land area that…
There is not much snow blanketing the valley as we roll into the New Year, so instead I’d like to draw attention to the little white berries whose common name was likely inspired by their likeness to a snowball. The…