Montana Creek Wetlands

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JUNEAU  |  127.77 ACRES  |  CONSERVED IN 2014

The aptly named Montana Creek conservation property borders Montana Creek, in Juneau. The Southeast Alaska Land Trust purchased the Montana Creek Wetlands conservation property from Juneau Youth Services in 2014.

Prior to the discovery of gold in Juneau in 1880, the Tlingit people of Auk village likely
used Montana Creek (known by the Tlingit people as Kaxdigoowu Héen, which means
“Clearwater Creek”) as a seasonal fish camp (though there is no specific evidence of their use of the Montana Creek Wetlands property).

Land records show that the property was in federal ownership prior to being surveyed
in 1941 as the 159.77-acre homestead of Bill Sakieff, better known by long-time Juneau residents as “Montana Bill.” Sakieff was a colorful Juneau resident who built a cabin and garden by the creek. The cabin has since been removed, and the garden repurposed.

Eventually, the property came into the hands of the Juneau Youth Services. It was later purchased by the Southeast Alaska Land Trust.

Montana Creek is in an important flood mitigation area. The purposes for conservation include habitat conservation and recreational access. It’s also a popular area for locals who enjoy birding and foraging. It’s used for scientific research, cross-country skiing/snowshoeing, hiking, and educational trips. Sitka black-tailed deer and black bears are often spotted on the property, and you didn’t hear it from us, but we hear there’s a pretty nice fishing hole nearby.

Restrictions:
Because of the potential damage to vegetation and disturbance to wildlife, camping and campfires are prohibited unless located in the pre-existing camp area and with the permission of the Southeast Alaska Land Trust. Also, mountain biking and off-road motorized vehicles are prohibited.