New easements protect two riverfront properties near Whitefish

Two riverfront properties near Whitefish will be protected from development under conservation easements finalized last week by Flathead Land Trust.

Sally Ericsson and Tom Garwin placed their 36 acres along the Stillwater River under conservation easement, and Mark Schmidt conserved his 30-acre parcel along the Whitefish River. Both properties protect prime agricultural lands and riparian habitats, providing wildlife habitat and connectivity, according to the Land Trust.

Ericsson and Garwin dreamed of protecting their property along the Stillwater River even before they owned it. Over two decades ago, they initiated a collaboration with Flathead Land Trust to find a property to purchase and conserve. When they found and fell in love with their 36-acre parcel just west of Whitefish, it came with significant challenges, but Ericsson and Garwin rose to the occasion.