January 2026 is recognized as the centennial of Montana's state forests. When the State Legislature designated seven state forests in 1925, their goal was to promote forest management and watershed protection. Today, DNRC manages Montana’s forested state trust lands with these priorities to produce an average of $10.5 million per year in revenue for public education and designated public institutions.
To learn more about the individual state forests, visit the centennial state forests story map
Montana Celebrates 100 Years of State Forests
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We Fund Public Education
Montana’s schools and other public institutions benefit from a unique funding source—state-owned lands known as Trust Lands. These lands are managed to generate revenue that directly supports Montana’s public education system.
Agriculture and Grazing Leases
We manage 4.7 million acres of State Trust Lands for agriculture and grazing leases. These lands play a vital role in supporting the state’s agricultural economy while simultaneously generating revenue for the trusts. This sustainable approach ensures long-term benefits for both Montana’s farmers and ranchers and our educational system
Real Estate Management
This program supports diverse real estate activities, including commercial, residential, and renewable energy leases. These efforts also involve easements, land sales, exchanges, and licensing, generating revenue while promoting responsible development and benefiting trust beneficiaries.
Minerals Management
We oversee the management and leasing of state-owned mineral resources. This includes agreements for oil and gas, coal, metalliferous and non-metalliferous minerals, as well as sand and gravel.
Forest Management
Our Forest Management Program oversees 793,000 acres of state trust forest lands, balancing sustainable timber production with resource conservation. Our team of specialists ensures all timber sales and forest activities are carefully planned, reviewed, and approved to generate income for trust beneficiaries while protecting the long-term health of Montana’s forests.
Recreation on State Trust Lands
Montana State Trust Lands are open for public recreation, but a Conservation License is required for legally accessible activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. By obtaining the proper license and recreating responsibly, you help keep these working lands open for future enjoyment.