Our History

Started in 1983 by local citizens concerned about the revival of hard rock mining on the boundary of Yellowstone National Park, Bear Creek Council (BCC) has worked to minimize mining’s impact on the area.

We are an affiliate of Northern Plains Resource Council, a community based conservation organization founded in 1972 to protect Montana’s land, air, water, and unique quality of life. Northern Plains’ staff provide training and support to aid BCC in achieving our goals.

Our Objectives

• To provide members with the opportunity to make a substantial contribution to the decision-making and monitoring process concerning area resources. * To promote responsible use of area resources in order to ensure quality of life and protection and integrity of the environment.

Projects and Events

• "Greening Gardiner" our home town in Montana by promoting improvements in residential energy efficiency, increased reliance on non-polluting sources of energy, and reductions in solid waste through an aggressive effort to reduce, reuse and recycle.
• Supporting the the concept of bison as free-ranging wildlife managed by appropriate wildlife agencies, rather than livestock agencies. This includes conducting community information forums about bison management and related issues such as brucellosis.
• Cleaning-up three miles of U.S. 89
• Sponsoring the Jardine Ski Run, which includes children’s races and a raffle
• Monitoring public land access and management. This includes the review of mining proposals in our area, and monitoring clean up of the TVX mine.
• Participating in local and state land-use planning. This includes lobbying in Helena and Washington D.C. on mining, water quality, and other issues of local interest
• Co-sponsoring community potlucks with the National Park Service when tribal representatives meet in Yellowstone.
• Holding a holiday membership party