MONTANA CREEK + MORRAINE EDGE
JUNEAU | 127.77 ACRES | CONSERVED IN 2014
This conservation site borders Montana Creek / Kaxdigoowu Héen (“Clearwater River” in Tlingit).
This conservation site is vital for flood mitigation. It’s wildlife habitat for migratory and resident birds, furbearers, and fish. 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.
You didn’t hear it from us, but we hear there’s a pretty nice fishing hole nearby.
The Tlingit people of Auk village likely used the area as a seasonal fish camp before the discovery of gold in Juneau in 1880. Land records show the property 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.”
Eventually, the property came into the hands of the Juneau Youth Services. It was purchased in 2014 by the Southeast Alaska Land Trust.
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.
Mountain biking and off-road motorized vehicles are prohibited.
Forage Spotlight: s'ikshaldéen
S'ikshaldéen // Labrador tea // Hudson Bay tea grows in abundance in this wetland.
Oblong green leaves — check the undersides. White, or orange depending on the time of year.
When harvesting, take only a few leaves from each plant to avoid harm.
Tea is medicinal and tasty.
