GREAT FALLS — NorthWestern Energy hosted a public forum in Great Falls on Thursday for people to provide input on recreational opportunities along the Missouri River.
NorthWestern Energy, in partnership with the public-private Missouri-Madison River Fund, has provided $6.4 million in grant funding for public recreation, leveraging $12.9 million in public recreation enhancements, since 2007.
NorthWestern Energy has also contributed $1.8 million in matching funds.
Since 2005, the energy company has helped fund 66 projects in the Great Falls area.
A summary of the Missouri-Madison Comprehensive Recreation Plan and projects, use history, access and opportunities was presented.
Projects range from upkeep to construction and have included maintaining the River’s Edge Trail, building picnic sites and fishing piers, and the shaded canopy at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center.
The public added in their own wishlists. These included more camping sites like at Heritage Park, a whitewater wave ride at Black Eagle island, and an educational display featuring artifacts from the old Rainbow Dam powerhouse..
For more information and to get involved in shaping the future of recreation along the river corridors, visit the NWE Recreation website.
