Mountain Mamas Joins Gallatin Forest Partnership to protect the Gallatin and Madison Ranges for Future Generations
We are so excited to announce Mountain Mamas as a new member of the Gallatin Forest Partnership. Mountain Mamas will be represented by Erin Benedict, Montana state director, in the partnership.
We sat down with Erin to learn more about how she found her way to conservation in Montana and why Mountain Mamas is joining the Gallatin Forest Partnership.
Erin Benedict, her son, and pup. (Photo Erik Petersen)
Tell us about yourself!
I grew up in Pennsylvania and was lucky enough to find my way to Montana in 2008. Maybe I played the Oregon Trail game too much as a kid, because I didn’t hesitate to pack up my old Dodge Stratus and head west with no plan. Arriving in Montana that spring was like coming home, even though I had never been here before. Since then, I have created a life here that I could never have imagined as a kid, exploring these wild and wonderful lands.
What do you do for work?
I am the Montana State Director for Mountain Mamas, a nonprofit organization that protects our public lands, air, water, and climate for future generations.
What do you do for fun?
I love running or hiking local trails, soaking in a hot spring, and exploring Montana. My husband, son, and I love getting outdoors, whether it’s camping or fishing close to home or taking a trip to go shark tooth hunting in Florida.
What are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about doing everything I can to create a better tomorrow for future generations.
What brought you and Mountain Mamas to the Gallatin Forest Partnership?
The Gallatin and Madison ranges are in our backyard. We are grateful to be a part of this amazing group that is working to protect them and plan for future use. We believe the GFP has found a balanced solution to a complex situation.
Why is the Gallatin Forest Partnership important to you?
There is no doubt that Montana is growing and changing. Our public spaces are more popular than ever. Wildlife habitat is shrinking. The Greater Yellowstone Conservation and Recreation Act presents a collaborative, realistic vision to preserve, protect, and responsibly enjoy this place that we love.
What is your favorite part of the GFP landscape?
Hyalite is such a spectacular place where I’ve spent countless summer days. It is one of the unique places that makes Bozeman “Bozeman.”
Join us in welcoming Erin and Mountain Mamas to the Gallatin Forest Partnership!