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First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park Development Planning

Background

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is building on previous planning efforts to create a development plan for managing recreation infrastructure at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park. First Peoples Buffalo Jump is an archaeological site with possibly the largest bison cliff jump in North America and is designated as a National Historic Landmark. The historic and cultural resources, wildlife habitat, and unique opportunities for outdoor recreation will all be part of what the planning process and final planning document considers.

 

About the Planning Process

Planning began in early 2023 with the formation of the FWP planning team. The planning team is actively conducting outreach to stakeholders invested in the future of First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park.

The planning team hosted a virtual information session on Thursday, June 8, 2023 to inform the public on this upcoming planning effort and timeline as well as answer any questions. A recording of this information session is available below.

The planning team then solicited input through a public survey asking general questions about preferences, interests, and ideas for the site.

The survey results will be used to develop design concepts to help visualize what potential park enhancements might look like.​ FWP will host a public open house at the park on Saturday, August 12 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM to gather input on the developed concepts.​

Following the second round of public input, FWP will develop a draft development plan for the park.​ The public will have the opportunity to review and comment on the draft plan during a 30-day comment period sometime this fall.

 

Public Participation – Upcoming Opportunities

Public participation is integral to developing a plan that enhances the recreation opportunities provided in the park while retaining its important cultural and historic resources.


Public Open House

FWP is hosting public workshop to gather valuable community input and ideas for development planning at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park. During the open house, attendees will have the opportunity to explore proposed development projects and share their feedback on tangible ideas for park enhancements.

Date: Saturday, August 12, from

Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Location: First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park; 342 Ulm-Vaughn Rd, Ulm, MT 59485.

Attendees are welcome to join at any time during the event and are not required to stay for the entire duration. Your voice matters! Join us at the public open house and help shape the future of First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park.


Virtual Public Information Session

FWP hosted a virtual public information session on June 8 to provide an overview of the planning process and the opportunities for public involvement.

  • Watch (Recording of Information Session): 

Questions?

For more information, contact:

Amber Lopatine ​
FWP Parks and Outdoor Recreation Planner 
PO Box 200701 ​
Helena, MT 59620

406-444-3364

Amber.lopatine@mt.gov