![Elk Crossing North Fork of Flathead River, north of Camas Bridge, March 4, 2016 - Greg Evans](https://www.gravel.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Elk-Crossing-North-Fork-N-of-Camas-Bridge-Greg-Evans-160304-300x173.jpg)
The Flathead Beacon has a good article on conservation project funding in the valley . . .
A slate of conservation projects are nearing completion or recently came to fruition in the Flathead Valley, underscoring the importance of private donations and a federal program that funds a suite of conservation projects, including land acquisition and grants to state and local entities for everything from conservation easements to municipal parks.
Recently, the Land and Water Conservation Fund helped complete the next phase of a 13,400-acre conservation easement northwest of Whitefish Lake, providing $2 million for the final piece of the multi-phased Whitefish Lake Watershed Project, which helps protect wildlife, promote timber production, and allow public access for hunting, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor pursuits.
The conservation and recreation community has praised the easement because it protects critical fish and wildlife habitat and provides continued public access for outdoor recreation, while also securing the city of Whitefish’s water supply, 20 percent of which is drawn from Whitefish Lake.