Developing a sustained working relationship with many agencies and organizations, Missoula Back Country Horsemen dealt with numerous issues over the decades which threatened stock use on public lands. Issues including trail and trailhead closures and abandonment; access problems; endangered species; user permits; trail sharing disputes; and other land use concerns. Working with local, state and federal agencies, B*H of Missoula members have spent countless hours, weeks, months and years pouring over forest management plans,
congressional issues, environmental matters and a host of other concerns facing stock use of the back country. Vast amounts of time and labor, both human and equine, have gone into building, clearing and maintaining trail systems, trail head facilities, camp facilities, bridges and buildings to protect and promote horse use in Montana. These efforts have benefited numerous trail users insuring our continued presence while remaining a valued advocate for Montana’s wildland. B*H of Missoula/Montana have always been actively involved in wilderness designation and preservation throughout the state. The Missoula chapter was one of many that helped stave off drilling for oil along the Rocky Mountain Front of the Bob Marshall Wilderness, preserving its untouched wildness forever. With the objective of educating and encouraging sensible, responsible horse and stock use, Missoula B*H sponsored the Equine Expo for public involvement. They proudly and actively participate in the use and enjoyment of those successful efforts to uphold our horse heritage in Montana’s back country.
