Celebration of the Owen Sowerwine Conservation Easement

Join us on Monday, May 13th, for our celebration of the Owen Sowerwine Conservation Easement. First nominated as a State Natural Area in 1974, and passing through a variety of lease and license holders through 2024, the natural values of this important 442-acre piece of river corridor and wildlife habitat have been protected for 50 years through conservation management. This 50-year journey has now culminated with the purchase of a Conservation Easement on Owen Sowerwine by the Flathead Land Trust this year, finally providing the Area with permanent conservation protection. 

The speakers for the evening will talk about the work and the partnerships that made this achievement possible. Laura Katzman from Flathead Land Trust, and Anne Moran from the Montana Department of Natural Resources will summarize their organizations’ involvement. Kay Mitchell will speak about the early years of protecting Owen Sowerwine, and the Whitefish Community Foundation’s role in securing the easement. Pam Willison will recount Flathead Audubon’s land management efforts at Owen Sowerwine. Denny Olson, Flathead Conservation Educator, will talk about the educational services that have been provided at Owen Sowerwine for students and adults. Don’t miss this chance to honor and celebrate a remarkable journey. The meeting will also include bird sighting reports and election of FAS Officers and Board Directors.

We will meet in Room 26 of the Gateway Mall (United Way building). This room is on the east side of the building along Glenwood Drive in Kalispell. Look for our banner hanging outside.

Please bring your own plates, utensils and cups. There is no sink to wash dishes so prepare accordingly. Be sure to arrive early enough to look over and bid on silent auction items!