The Montana Trout Foundation (MTF) has awarded grants to five different projects around the state based on proposals received from individuals or groups this past fall.

For almost 50 years, MTF has been working to preserve and enhance Montana's one-of-a-kind trout resources through funding scientific research, fisheries education, and trout habitat enhancement. The group is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization with board members from around the state, and the typical funding amount is between $2500 and $7500, depending.

This year's five grant recipients include the Bighorn River Alliance, Big Hole River Foundation, Big Hole Watershed Committee, Montana Trout Unlimited, and the Yaak Valley Forest Council. All of the projects were chosen based on MTF’s assessment of their potential for positive impact on the state’s trout fisheries.

An MTF grant can fund initial project assessment, planning, and design that will qualify a project for additional funding through these other sources. Applications are typically received and reviewed late in the fall and winter, with grants typically funded beginning in the spring of the following year.

For more information about the Montana Trout Foundation, visit the MTF website at www.mttroutfoundation.org.