Swan Release Recognized for Efforts

The Blackfoot Challenge is a grass roots group working to protect and improve their environment and their rural way of life. A wide array of residents, from all walks of life in the Valley, have joined together for the good of all.

For nine years the Blackfoot Challenge has been releasing a pair of trumpeter swans in the Blackfoot Valley to re-establish the bird.

The release of the swans this year was recognized by Montana Wetland and Watershed Coordination Councils with their 2013 Wetland Stewardship Award.

Governor Steve Bullock was joined by Tracy Stone-Manning of the Dep’t. of Environmental Quality and the head of the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks Jeff Hagener for the release. Middle school students from area schools also were there.

The Blackfoot Challenge sold raffle tickets for the privilege of releasing a swan. Deb Dillree from Ovando was the winner.

Thanks to Andi Bourne of our “Revered” Seeley Swan Pathfinder for the background and photos.