The Bear Creek Council

in Gardiner, Montana - The North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park
People working to conserve and protect the integrity of our environment and community.

Our History

Started in 1983 by local citizens concerned about the revival of hard rock mining on the boundary of Yellowstone National Park, Bear Creek Council (BCC) has worked to minimize mining’s impact on the area.

Jardine Ski Run - February, 2005We are an affiliate of Northern Plains Resource Council, a community based conservation organization founded in 1972 to protect Montana’s land, air, water, and unique quality of life. Northern Plains’ staff provide training and support to aid BCC in achieving our goals.

Our Objectives

  • To provide members with the opportunity to make a substantial contribution to the decision-making and monitoring process concerning area resources.
  • To promote responsible use of area resources in order to ensure quality of life and protection and integrity of the environment.

Projects and Events

  • Monitor closing and cleanup of TVX mine.
  • Review and monitor other mining proposals
  • Monitor public land access and management
  • Conduct community information forums about bison management and other relevant issues
  • Clean-up three miles of U.S. 89
  • Participate in local and state land-use planning
  • Lobby in Helena and Washington D.C. on mining, water quality, and other issues of local interest
  • Co-sponsor community potlucks with the National Park Service when tribal representatives meet in Yellowstone
  • Sponsor the Jardine Ski Run, which includes children’s races and a raffle
  • Hold a holiday membership party

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