Project Summary: In a previous phase, we partnered with American Prairie to donate 109 acres to the State of Montana to establish Judith Landing State Park. Currently, we are supporting historic and heritage research and community engagement. We intend to support historic preservation and an Indigenous Heritage Pavilion in future phases.
Status: FWP currently finalizing contracts with numerous researchers. MSPF has received significant funding to cover research expenses, which were not covered by the state. MSPF is now developing a community outreach strategy to promote the project, new park, and facilitate connection between local “heritage holders” and the researchers to ensure oral histories are recorded and represented in interpretive displays.
Timeline: Spring 2026 – Spring 2027
Committee Member Qualifications: Located near Judith Landing State Park adjacent communities such as Big Sandy, Fort Benton, Lewistown, Winifred, etc. Interest (not expertise) in heritage, culture, and research. Willingness to plan and attend events in these communities and at the park. Willingness to plan and attend outreach events.
Responsibilities: This committee will oversee outreach in central Montana with a focus on connecting researchers to local heritage holders. A committee leader will act as liaison between MSPF board, staff, park staff, community members, researchers and other partners.
Committee Tasks:
- Establish committee and committee leader(s).
- Find additional committee members, preferably local to the region or connected to the project. Committee members do not need to be on the Board of Directors.
- Connect with potential supporters in Lewistown, Winifred, Big Sandy, Fort Benton, central MT. Could be individuals, businesses or foundations. Refer to Guide for more information.
- Plan “Heritage Holder” outreach strategy, Could include
- Table events, outreach events in regional communities (like farmers markets)
- Small events at Judith Landing, like a picnic with researcher speakers
- Regional fundraiser event, invite-only gathering of potential supporters in a more intimate setting
- Could be future opportunity for a regional fundraiser event, but is not a current priority
- Develop “Heritage Holder” outreach materials to solicit research participants, which could include:
- Press release
- Strategy for connecting Heritage Holders with FWP/researchers
- Develop informational publication promoting project and research participation for print and distribution in regional communities
Interested? Email [email protected] or complete this quick form.
