Conservation Groups Rally to Protect Marijuana Tax Revenue for Montana’s Public Lands
Since Montana legalized recreational marijuana in 2021, the state has generated tens of millions of dollars in tax revenue, which has been funneled into conservation programs across the state. However, a coalition of conservation organizations is now sounding the alarm, warning that the governor’s office and state legislature may attempt to reduce or reallocate this funding.
The revenue, which currently amounts to 20% of the state’s marijuana tax revenue, is used to support programs such as Habitat Montana, which acquires permanent easements and maintenance for Montana’s public lands. Additionally, 4% of the revenue is allocated to state parks, trails, and recreational facilities, as well as nongame wildlife.
Conservation groups, including Montana Wild, Montana Wildlife Federation, Montana Trails Coalition, and the Montana State Parks Foundation, are urging lawmakers to protect this funding, citing its importance for Montana’s public lands and wildlife. Noah Marion, state policy director for Montana Wild, emphasized that the funding has been “a really, truly, groundbreaking achievement” for the state and is critical for continued conservation efforts.
Fiscal projections indicate that funding for these programs will reach $9.3 million for Habitat Montana and $1.86 million for the other conservation funds by fiscal year 2027. However, the governor’s budget proposal includes a plan to reallocate some of this funding to water storage projects, contingent on legislation that redistributes marijuana tax revenue.
Conservation groups are opposed to any reduction in funding, citing Montana’s strong fiscal position and the importance of investing in conservation measures. Chris Marchion, a board member with Montana Wildlife Federation, noted that Montanans are “really good at getting things done” when they see a good idea, and that the state should continue to invest in conservation efforts.
The groups also pointed to a recent measure that passed the legislature with overwhelming support, only to be vetoed by the governor, as evidence of Montanans’ appetite for funding conservation measures. They emphasized that the state can afford to honor its commitment to public lands, state parks, trails, and wildlife conservation, and that any reduction in funding would be a step backward.
With the recent acquisition of a parcel of land near Judith Landing, Montana now has 56 state parks that have seen significant increases in visitation in recent years. The conservation groups are urging lawmakers to prioritize funding for these programs and to protect the state’s commitment to conservation.
