Recreationists now have an additional 160 acres to enjoy when visiting the Mt. Haggin Wildlife Management Area south of Anaconda. 

The new parcel lies along the north-central boundary of the WMA. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks recently partnered with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation to purchase the parcel from a landowner wishing to see the property go into public ownership. The purchase received support from local conservation groups, Deer Lodge County commissioners, and several local sportsmen and women. 

FWP closed on the sale on Sept. 19. The property is now open to the public. 

Mt. Haggin is Montana’s largest wildlife management area at 65,000 acres. The WMA spans the Continental Divide, providing quality wildlife habitat in both summer and winter ranges, as well as migration corridors. The WMA also provides excellent fishing opportunities. 

While the recent addition is relatively small compared to the rest of the property, it brings valuable wildlife habitat into public ownership. 

“This new parcel will provide additional year-round recreation for the public in an area with excellent wildlife and fish habitat,” said Vanna Boccadori, FWP’s Butte Area wildlife biologist.  

Motorized access to the new parcel will be closed from May 15 to Dec. 1. Cross-country snowmobile travel will be allowed outside of the closure, consistent with existing regulations on the adjacent portion of the WMA east of the Continental Divide.