Montana DNRC seeks public input on state trust land recreation rules

HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) is inviting Montanans to participate in a new survey regarding recreational use on state trust lands.

Jessica Hoag, DNRC recreational use and public access coordinator, highlighted the purpose of the survey.

"DNRC is taking a fresh look at its recreation rules for state trust lands and wants public input to see if the rules are still relevant and working well for today’s needs," said Hoag in a release.

This survey is not a formal rulemaking process, according to the DNRC. It seeks to define the scope of possible future revisions and gauge public interest in changes. Topics such as motorized use, camping limits and commercial activities are among the areas of focus.

State trust lands play a crucial role in funding Montana’s public schools and provide spaces for various recreational activities. DNRC is seeking input from a broad audience, including recreationists, landowners, leaseholders and local communities.

The survey is available online and submissions will be accepted through March 31, 2026.