• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Bitterroot Star

Bitterroot Valley's best source for local news!

  • Home
  • News
  • Sports
    • Tournament Time 2022
  • Opinion
  • Classifieds
    • Buildings
    • Farm & Garden
    • For Rent
    • For Sale
    • Free
    • Help Wanted
    • Real Estate
    • Sales/Auctions
    • Services
  • Legal Notices
  • Obituaries
  • Calendar
    • Submit an Event
  • Services
    • Letter to the Editor
    • Place Classified Ad
    • Submit a Press Release
    • Contact Us
    • About Us
  • Subscribe

Big sky and open space – Bitter Root Land Trust key to preserving it

December 22, 2021 by Michael Howell

Gavin Ricklefs, Executive Director of the Bitter Root Land Trust, points to the large area covered by existing and pending conservation easements in the Burnt Fork made possible by the county’s Open Lands Bond Program and substantial community support. Photo by Michael Howell.

The Bitter Root Land Trust has made a lot of headway since it opened its doors in 1996 and set out on a mission to conserve open lands and working farms in the Bitterroot valley. By engaging with private landowners and facilitating the voluntary placement of conservation easements on private property throughout the county, they have succeeded in protecting almost 10,000 acres of land in the valley from future development. This includes about 7,500 acres of local family farm and ranch lands that will remain as working farms in perpetuity. It includes 20 miles of river and stream frontage and 4,500 acres of forest and rangeland kept intact and free from development. It also includes three riverfront community access properties and nature trails. 

“We’ve sure been fortunate that so many landowners have made this decision,” said Bitter Root Land Trust Executive Director Gavin Ricklefs while standing on benchland overlooking the Burnt Fork drainage. “The valley’s going to be better for it.”

The collection of conservation easements up the Burnt Fork of the Bitterroot could well be called the crown jewels of the county’s Open Lands Bond Program. 

Ricklefs was on the job when one of the first conservation easements to be placed by the land trust was negotiated with local veterinarian Stan Swartz on his ranch up Lost Horse. Interest in the conservation tool increased, but it was when the general public weighed in, passing the Open Lands Bond in 2006, that things really began to take off.

Dan and Debbie Severson were the first property owners in the Burnt Fork area to place an easement on a good portion of the Flying E Ranch. “The Open Lands Bond was the catalyst,” said Dan Severson. “Basically, it was the people of Ravalli County when they voted for the Open Lands Bond and said ‘Hey, we appreciate farm ground and open lands and wildlife’ and were willing to take a few bucks out of their pockets to promote that.”

“I think that was the turning point for a lot of us,” said Severson, “for me for sure, when I realized that my neighbors appreciated open space enough to support it. Fifty years from now, a hundred years from now, people are still going to really appreciate this. I think it will keep our community a beautiful place to live.”

Other funding that has helped fuel the establishment of so many conservation easements in the Burnt Fork is a significant amount of funding over the years from the Friends of the Lee Metcalf Refuge. That organization recognized the value of the easements in protecting a flyway corridor connecting the Sapphire Mountains to the Metcalf Refuge.  

According to Ricklefs, if the next conservation easement on the Haywire Ranch on the Burnt Fork, already approved by the Open Lands Board, gains the approval of the County Commissioners, it would establish a necklace of conservation easements down the Burnt Fork stretching unbroken from the National Forest all the way to Logan Lane.

Like snow across the mountain slopes in winter, a blanket of conservation easements covering a large portion of the Burnt Fork stands out as something like the crown jewels of the county’s Open Lands Bond Program. The Bitter Root Land Trust is on the brink of surpassing the 10,000-acre mark in its efforts at conserving open lands and working farms from Sula to Missoula. Standing on Sunset Bench overlooking the Burnt Fork is Bitter Root Land Trust Executive Director Gavin Ricklefs. Photo by Michael Howell.

The Bitter Root Land Trust has also leveraged a significant amount of federal funding, through the Farm Bill, aimed at preserving family farms, to make the open lands bond fund money go even further. Currently about one quarter of the original $10 million Open Lands Bond remains. 

“We are fortunate that we are still in a position in our valley that we can protect our agriculture and wildlife and open lands and the beauty of this place,” said Ricklefs. He said the conservation easement was showing itself to be a very good tool for identifying and protecting what the community finds of value. 

“It’s totally voluntary, incentive-based, landowner and community-driven,” he said.

Sharon Schroeder, who has served on the Open Lands Board for nine years, the last three as Chair, said that she has seen an incredible metamorphosis in the program since 2012.

“I’m just so grateful for these landowners who value the land and want to do the right thing for the land,” said Schroeder. “They are being such good stewards of the land. They have so much opportunity to make so much more money by taking the development route. Bless them for understanding that once it’s gone, it’s gone forever. We are so unbelievably blessed in the Bitterroot and especially in the Burnt Fork.”

Schroeder and her husband Jim sold the family ranch at the north end of the valley and bought three properties on Sunset Bench, overlooking the Burnt Fork. They placed a conservation easement on the property using the Open Lands Bond Program and have been strong advocates of the process.

“It’s a long and difficult process because so much emotion ties up in it,” she said. “But in the end, it’s very rewarding to feel like you’ve done the right thing for future generations.” 

 Ricklefs said that at times of rapid develop everyone becomes concerned about the amount of growth that is occurring and the amount of change that goes with it. 

“Anyone who has lived in the valley, for any amount of time really, recognizes what it is that draws people here and makes it such a special place.” 

“That growth is going to continue and with it will come a lot of changes that are not all bad,” he said. “Growing and dynamic communities bring a lot of good things to the valley. But if we don’t invest in what we have that is drawing everyone here and makes it so special, then we all lose.”

“We are unique,” he said, “with all the 10-acre Orchard Tracts created at the end of the last century. What I think a lot of people don’t realize is how much of the open land you see is actually already subdivided and could be sold in 10 acre blocks at any time.”  Those 10-acre blocks can then be divided into two five-acre lots and each of those then divided into five one-acre lots, all without ever going through major subdivision review. 

Ricklefs said that more and more people are looking at those tracts and trying to save them from division. He said the land trust has no desire to see 1000 acres of ag land go to houses. He said those projects are high priority right now for the land trust because they are already set up to sell. 

“What’s encouraging to me in times like this, especially in these pulses of activity, is how everybody feels it and the sense that we need to act. People really care about this place and it’s independent of politics, tax bracket, or occupation. There is this thing that we all care about so much. We take that awe and respect for what’s all around us and bring it down to the places we’ve got here that connect us to it,” said Ricklefs.

Share this:

Filed Under: News

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Deborah Laster says

    December 26, 2021 at 6:17 PM

    It is Wonderful to know that other people feel the same way I do about open lands.

Primary Sidebar

Events Calendar

Loading view.
  • February 2023

Calendar of Events

S Sun

M Mon

T Tue

W Wed

T Thu

F Fri

S Sat

2 events, 29

2022-12-28

‘Bark in the Mew Year’ Sale

‘Bark in the Mew Year’ Sale

December 28, 2022 - January 31, 2023

‘Bark in the Mew Year’ Sale

Cats, dogs, puppies and kittens....Oh my! The cat rooms and kennels at Bitter Root Humane Association are full and they need to make room for the homeless animals that are […]

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

St. Francis of Assisi Parish Mass

January 29 @ 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

St. Francis of Assisi Parish Mass

Join us for Mass every Saturday at 5:30 p.m. and Sunday at 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Mission church St. Philip in Darby every Sunday at 11:00 a.m.

Free

3 events, 30

2022-12-28

‘Bark in the Mew Year’ Sale

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Rotary Club

January 30 @ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Rotary Club

On Monday, January 30. Rotary speaker will be Hamilton Rotary President Ken Reimer, retired HR professor who will speak on the principles of leadership. Rotary is an international service organization […]

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Stevi School Board

January 30 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Stevi School Board

The Stevensville School Board of Trustees will hold a special board meeting on Monday, January 30, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in the Stevensville Music Center Choir Room. 

4 events, 31

2022-12-28

‘Bark in the Mew Year’ Sale

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

January 31 @ 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

Learn the basics of QuickBooks online in this series of 6 classes. The course introduces QuickBooks and essential accounting terminology, and covers the sales process, revenue tracking , managing expenses, […]

$120
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

January 31 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

Free dinners to the Bitterroot community every Tuesday at 6:30pm!  Join us for a free dinner, a brief message of Hope and lots of fellowship!  There is a children’s group […]

Free
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

January 31 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive at 7PM

3 events, 1

7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

Three Mile Coffee Club

February 1 @ 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

Three Mile Coffee Club

Three Mile Coffee Club will have a special guest at their Wednesday, February 1st meeting. The topic wiill be “What You Should Do After You Call 911.” The group meets […]

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Recurring Event

Coffee with the Mayor

February 1 @ 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Recurring Event

Coffee with the Mayor

Coffee with the Mayor, First Tuesday of Each Month 9:00 am at CJ's Den, 324 Main Street.  Opportunity for Stevensville Residents to Informally Meet with the Mayor, ask Questions, Express […]

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

February 1 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

Explore the universe, both micro and macro, and learn the science mysteries behind the natural word. Expect fun activities with Legos®, paper planes, food, and more. Children will soon be […]

4 events, 2

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Yarn, Darns & Needle Charms: Knit Crochet Club

February 2 @ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Yarn, Darns & Needle Charms: Knit Crochet Club

Cable knit sweaters and garter stitch socks; treble and half double, skip stitch and chain; if these and a skein are some of your favorite things, join us for this […]

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

February 2 @ 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

Learn the basics of QuickBooks online in this series of 6 classes. The course introduces QuickBooks and essential accounting terminology, and covers the sales process, revenue tracking , managing expenses, […]

$120
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Night Out at the Library: Bingo!

February 2 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Night Out at the Library: Bingo!

Grab a friend, your lucky charm, and if you're inclined and of age, an adult beverage, and come on down to the library for a fun-filled evening of Bingo. Register […]

7:30 PM - 8:30 PM

3 Mile Irrigation

February 2 @ 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM

3 Mile Irrigation

3 Mile irrigation sub-district will have a special meeting on Thursday, February 2, 7:30 p.m. at the Three Mile Community Center, 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Road.

3 events, 3

2023-02-03

First Grade Kindness Project

First Grade Kindness Project

February 3 - February 10

First Grade Kindness Project

Stevensville First Grade classes are putting on four art exhibits as a fundraiser for two Stevensville school staff members that recently faced medical emergencies. The exhibits will run from First […]

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Pachyderm Club

February 3 @ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Pachyderm Club

The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, February 3 at 12 noon at The Frontier Cafe, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speaker will be Christine Agin on COS. […]

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Model Railroad Club

February 3 @ 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Model Railroad Club

The Bitterroot Valley Model Railroad Club runs its train display in the basement below Valley Drug February through December on First Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. and on Saturday […]

3 events, 4

2023-02-03

First Grade Kindness Project

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Valentine’s Bazaar

February 4 @ 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Valentine’s Bazaar

Arts and Crafts Bazaar located at Bitterroot Valley Church of the Nazarene's Neely Center, 150 South A Street, Victor MT on February 4th from 10am - 3pm

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 4 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive at 7PM

2 events, 5

2023-02-03

First Grade Kindness Project

First Grade Kindness Project

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Lone Rock Community Network Meetings

February 5 @ 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Lone Rock Community Network Meetings

Who's invited: All Community invited. When: 1st & 3rd Sundays / 6pm Where: Ambrose Park Community Center - 4415 Sunnyside Cemetery Rd., Stevensville, MT Why: Education & discussion about how […]

4 events, 6

2023-02-03

First Grade Kindness Project

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Rotary Club

February 6 @ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Rotary Club

On Monday,  February 6, Rotary speaker will be Shane Kravick, Accelerate MT, Outreach Coordinator. Rotary meets Mondays at noon at BJs restaurant. Guests and prospective members are welcome.

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

February 6 @ 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

Mondays on Feb. 6, 13, 27 & March 6, 13, 20, 27 at 6pm-6:30pm (No class on Feb 20). Learn belly dance moves, building core strength. Belly dance, as it is called […]

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

February 6 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

The John Birch Society Ravalli County Chapter meets every Monday at 7 p.m. at 330 3rd Avenue, Victor. For info contact Terri, 406-880-2492.

5 events, 7

2023-02-03

First Grade Kindness Project

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

February 7 @ 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

Learn the basics of QuickBooks online in this series of 6 classes. The course introduces QuickBooks and essential accounting terminology, and covers the sales process, revenue tracking , managing expenses, […]

$120
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot

February 7 @ 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot

Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot monthly meeting is Tuesday, February 7, at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. Social/Dinner hour is 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Cocktails & Dinner are optional.   […]

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

February 7 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

Free dinners to the Bitterroot community every Tuesday at 6:30pm!  Join us for a free dinner, a brief message of Hope and lots of fellowship!  There is a children’s group […]

Free
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 7 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive at 7PM

3 events, 8

2023-02-03

First Grade Kindness Project

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

February 8 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

Explore the universe, both micro and macro, and learn the science mysteries behind the natural word. Expect fun activities with Legos®, paper planes, food, and more. Children will soon be […]

7:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Lone Rock Park Board

February 8 @ 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Lone Rock Park Board

Lone Rock Park Board will meet Wednesday, February 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Three Mile Community Center, 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Road. Public welcome.

6 events, 9

2023-02-03

First Grade Kindness Project

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Recurring Event

Bingo and 50/50 raffle

February 9 @ 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Recurring Event

Bingo and 50/50 raffle

Bingo and 50/50 raffle. Refreshments available. 18 years old and older. Every second and fourth Thursday January through May and September through November.

Free
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

February 9 @ 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

Learn the basics of QuickBooks online in this series of 6 classes. The course introduces QuickBooks and essential accounting terminology, and covers the sales process, revenue tracking , managing expenses, […]

$120
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Step One to Beekeeping with Beekeepers of the Bitterroot

February 9 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Step One to Beekeeping with Beekeepers of the Bitterroot

Are you considering taking up beekeeping? Curious about honeybees and hives? Take the first step on your beekeeping journey by attending this special presentation by Tim Meyer, Vice President of […]

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Emergency Preparedness classes

February 9 @ 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Emergency Preparedness classes

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is hosting free monthly Emergency Preparedness classes. They are held at 7pm at the Church building located in Hamilton at 401 N. […]

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Emergency Preparedness Classes

February 9 @ 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Emergency Preparedness Classes

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is hosting free monthly Emergency Preparedness classes. They are held at 7pm at the Church building located in Hamilton at 401 N. […]

3 events, 10

2023-02-03

First Grade Kindness Project

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Recurring Event

MPAA HeART of Winter Art Show

February 10 @ 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Recurring Event

MPAA HeART of Winter Art Show

Chase away those winter blahs at the HeART of Winter Art Show and Sale at the Bitterroot River Inn. Original paintings, bronze sculpture, fused and blown glass, pottery, giclee prints, […]

6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Potluck with a Purpose

February 10 @ 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Potluck with a Purpose

Potluck with a Purpose is hosting Bitterroot CASA on February 10 at the Rocky Mountain Grange. Bring a dish and come join the fun. A main dish and beverages will […]

5 events, 11

2023-02-11

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

Recurring Event
February 11 - February 18 Recurring Event

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

Still haven't found your Valentine? Well, you're not looking in the right places! Your perfect soul mate is waiting for you at the Bitter Root Humane Association shelter! Our cat […]

Free
10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

MPAA HeART of Winter Art Show

February 11 @ 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

MPAA HeART of Winter Art Show

Chase away those winter blahs at the HeART of Winter Art Show and Sale at the Bitterroot River Inn. Original paintings, bronze sculpture, fused and blown glass, pottery, giclee prints, […]

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Women’s Club

February 11 @ 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Women’s Club

Bitterroot Woman’s Club is meeting on February 11, 2023 at The First Presbyterian Church, 1220 W Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 at 10:30 am, Please use the west side entrance […]

5:00 PM - 11:00 PM

11th Annual Bitterroot Cowboy Ball

February 11 @ 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM

11th Annual Bitterroot Cowboy Ball

Fun Western theme fundraiser to support the Rockin RC Rodeo and the Equestrian side of the Ravalli County Fairgrounds. DINING....DANCING.... DONATING....Bring your sweetheart, family and friends and enjoy a festive […]

$75 – $500
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 11 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive at 7PM

2 events, 12

2023-02-11

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

Recurring Event
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Recurring Event

MPAA HeART of Winter Art Show

February 12 @ 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Recurring Event

MPAA HeART of Winter Art Show

Chase away those winter blahs at the HeART of Winter Art Show and Sale at the Bitterroot River Inn. Original paintings, bronze sculpture, fused and blown glass, pottery, giclee prints, […]

3 events, 13

2023-02-11

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

February 13 @ 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

Mondays on Feb. 6, 13, 27 & March 6, 13, 20, 27 at 6pm-6:30pm (No class on Feb 20). Learn belly dance moves, building core strength. Belly dance, as it is called […]

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

February 13 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

The John Birch Society Ravalli County Chapter meets every Monday at 7 p.m. at 330 3rd Avenue, Victor. For info contact Terri, 406-880-2492.

3 events, 14

2023-02-11

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

February 14 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

Free dinners to the Bitterroot community every Tuesday at 6:30pm!  Join us for a free dinner, a brief message of Hope and lots of fellowship!  There is a children’s group […]

Free
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 14 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive at 7PM

2 events, 15

2023-02-11

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

February 15 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

Explore the universe, both micro and macro, and learn the science mysteries behind the natural word. Expect fun activities with Legos®, paper planes, food, and more. Children will soon be […]

2 events, 16

2023-02-11

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

DIY Miniature Needle Felted Owls

February 16 @ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

DIY Miniature Needle Felted Owls

Take a stab at needle felting and create a charming owl perfectly-sized to fit in your pocket or on a keychain. As your owl takes shape, you will practice basic […]

1 event, 17

2023-02-11

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

2 events, 18

2023-02-11

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 18 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive at 7PM

1 event, 19

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Lone Rock Community Network Meetings

February 19 @ 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Lone Rock Community Network Meetings

Who's invited: All Community invited. When: 1st & 3rd Sundays / 6pm Where: Ambrose Park Community Center - 4415 Sunnyside Cemetery Rd., Stevensville, MT Why: Education & discussion about how […]

2 events, 20

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

February 20 @ 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

Mondays on Feb. 6, 13, 27 & March 6, 13, 20, 27 at 6pm-6:30pm (No class on Feb 20). Learn belly dance moves, building core strength. Belly dance, as it is called […]

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

February 20 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

The John Birch Society Ravalli County Chapter meets every Monday at 7 p.m. at 330 3rd Avenue, Victor. For info contact Terri, 406-880-2492.

3 events, 21

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

February 21 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

Free dinners to the Bitterroot community every Tuesday at 6:30pm!  Join us for a free dinner, a brief message of Hope and lots of fellowship!  There is a children’s group […]

Free
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Corvallis American Legion Post 91

February 21 @ 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Corvallis American Legion Post 91

Monthly Membership Meetings at 7:00 PM on the third Tuesday of the Month at the Corvallis Fire Station on Woodside Cutoff.  Other Meetings - KG7SPL Post Amateur Radio Club; First […]

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 21 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive at 7PM

2 events, 22

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

February 22 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

Explore the universe, both micro and macro, and learn the science mysteries behind the natural word. Expect fun activities with Legos®, paper planes, food, and more. Children will soon be […]

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Quantum Group of the Bitterroot

February 22 @ 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Quantum Group of the Bitterroot

The Quantum Group of the Bitterroot invites you to attend its monthly meetings. You needn't have knowledge of quantum physics to enjoy learning about this exciting field of science that […]

2 events, 23

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Recurring Event

Bingo and 50/50 raffle

February 23 @ 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Recurring Event

Bingo and 50/50 raffle

Bingo and 50/50 raffle. Refreshments available. 18 years old and older. Every second and fourth Thursday January through May and September through November.

Free
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Rockhounding Montana with Bitterroot Gem & Mineral Society

February 23 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Rockhounding Montana with Bitterroot Gem & Mineral Society

Explore the Treasure State in a whole new way with this introduction to rockhounding featuring the Bitterroot Gem & Mineral Society. Learn to effectively, and ethically, prospect, recognize, dig, and […]

0 events, 24

1 event, 25

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 25 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive at 7PM

0 events, 26

2 events, 27

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

February 27 @ 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

Mondays on Feb. 6, 13, 27 & March 6, 13, 20, 27 at 6pm-6:30pm (No class on Feb 20). Learn belly dance moves, building core strength. Belly dance, as it is called […]

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

February 27 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

The John Birch Society Ravalli County Chapter meets every Monday at 7 p.m. at 330 3rd Avenue, Victor. For info contact Terri, 406-880-2492.

2 events, 28

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

February 28 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

Free dinners to the Bitterroot community every Tuesday at 6:30pm!  Join us for a free dinner, a brief message of Hope and lots of fellowship!  There is a children’s group […]

Free
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 28 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive at 7PM

1 event, 1

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Recurring Event

Coffee with the Mayor

March 1 @ 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Recurring Event

Coffee with the Mayor

Coffee with the Mayor, First Tuesday of Each Month 9:00 am at CJ's Den, 324 Main Street.  Opportunity for Stevensville Residents to Informally Meet with the Mayor, ask Questions, Express […]

0 events, 2

1 event, 3

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Model Railroad Club

March 3 @ 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Model Railroad Club

The Bitterroot Valley Model Railroad Club runs its train display in the basement below Valley Drug February through December on First Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. and on Saturday […]

1 event, 4

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

March 4 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive at 7PM

December 28
All day

‘Bark in the Mew Year’ Sale

January 29 @ 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

St. Francis of Assisi Parish Mass

December 28
All day

‘Bark in the Mew Year’ Sale

January 30 @ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Rotary Club

January 30 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Stevi School Board

December 28
All day

‘Bark in the Mew Year’ Sale

January 31 @ 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

January 31 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

January 31 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 1
February 1 @ 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

Three Mile Coffee Club

February 1 @ 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Recurring Event

Coffee with the Mayor

February 1 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

February 2
February 2 @ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Yarn, Darns & Needle Charms: Knit Crochet Club

February 2 @ 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

February 2 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Night Out at the Library: Bingo!

February 2 @ 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM

3 Mile Irrigation

February 3
All day

First Grade Kindness Project

February 3 @ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Pachyderm Club

February 3 @ 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Model Railroad Club

February 3
All day

First Grade Kindness Project

February 4 @ 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Valentine’s Bazaar

February 4 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 3
All day

First Grade Kindness Project

February 5 @ 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Lone Rock Community Network Meetings

February 3
All day

First Grade Kindness Project

February 6 @ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Rotary Club

February 6 @ 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

February 6 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

February 7
February 7 @ 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

February 7 @ 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot

February 3
All day

First Grade Kindness Project

February 7 @ 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

February 7 @ 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot

February 7 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

February 7 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 3
All day

First Grade Kindness Project

February 8 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

February 8 @ 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Lone Rock Park Board

February 3
All day

First Grade Kindness Project

February 9 @ 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Recurring Event

Bingo and 50/50 raffle

February 9 @ 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

QuickBooks Online Classes

February 9 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Step One to Beekeeping with Beekeepers of the Bitterroot

February 9 @ 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Emergency Preparedness classes

February 9 @ 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Emergency Preparedness Classes

February 3
All day

First Grade Kindness Project

February 10 @ 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Recurring Event

MPAA HeART of Winter Art Show

February 10 @ 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Potluck with a Purpose

February 11
All day Recurring Event

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

February 11 @ 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

MPAA HeART of Winter Art Show

February 11 @ 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Women’s Club

February 11 @ 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM

11th Annual Bitterroot Cowboy Ball

February 11 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 11
All day Recurring Event

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

February 12 @ 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Recurring Event

MPAA HeART of Winter Art Show

February 11
All day Recurring Event

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

February 13 @ 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

February 13 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

February 11
All day Recurring Event

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

February 14 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

February 14 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 11
All day Recurring Event

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

February 15 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

February 11
All day Recurring Event

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

February 16 @ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

DIY Miniature Needle Felted Owls

February 11
All day Recurring Event

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

February 11
All day Recurring Event

SHOP TO ADOPT – Shelter Valentine Special

February 18 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 19
February 19 @ 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Lone Rock Community Network Meetings

February 20
February 20 @ 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

February 20 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

February 21
February 21 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

February 21 @ 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Corvallis American Legion Post 91

February 21 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

February 22
February 22 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Recurring Event

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Officer Lisa

February 22 @ 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Recurring Event

Quantum Group of the Bitterroot

February 23
February 23 @ 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Recurring Event

Bingo and 50/50 raffle

February 23 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Rockhounding Montana with Bitterroot Gem & Mineral Society

  • There are no events on this day.
February 25
February 25 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

  • There are no events on this day.
February 27
February 27 @ 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Recurring Event

Beginning Belly Dance

February 27 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

John Birch Society

February 28
February 28 @ 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Recurring Event

Breaking Bread

February 28 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

March 1
March 1 @ 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Recurring Event

Coffee with the Mayor

  • There are no events on this day.
March 3
March 3 @ 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Recurring Event

Model Railroad Club

March 4
March 4 @ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Recurring Event

Stevensville AA

View Calendar

Search this website…

Local Info

  • Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce
  • Ravalli County
  • Ravalli County Economic Development Authority
  • City of Hamilton
  • Town of Stevensville
  • Town of Darby
  • Bitterroot Public Library
  • North Valley Public Library
  • Stevensville Community Foundation
  • Ravalli County Council on Aging
  • Bitterroot Producers Directory
  • Ravalli County Schools
  • Real Estate
  • Montana Works

Like us

Back Issues

December 2021
S M T W T F S
 1234
567891011
12131415161718
19202122232425
262728293031  
« Nov   Jan »

Read our e-edition!

Montana Info

  • Montana Ski Report
  • Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks
  • National Parks in Montana
  • Montana Wildfires – INCIWEB
  • US Forest Service – Missoula
  • Firewise USA
  • Recreation.gov

Check Road Conditions

Road Conditions

Footer

Services

  • Place Classified Ad
  • Submit a Press Release
  • Letter to the Editor
  • Submit an Event
  • Subscribe
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Our location:

PO Box 133

115 W. 3rd Street
Stevensville, MT  59870
Phone: (406) 777-3928
Fax: (406) 777-4265

Archives – May 2011 to Present

Archives Prior to May 2011

Click here for archives prior to May 2011.

Copyright © 2023 · Bitterroot Star · Maintenance