Back to SOS News & Media Center >>
HELENA, Mont. — Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen voted to approve multiple timber projects and an oil and gas lease sale during Monday’s monthly Montana Land Board meeting. The actions are expected to generate more than $2.4 million, with most of the revenue benefiting Montana’s K-12 schools.
Secretary Jacobsen joined her fellow Land Board commissioners in unanimously approving the oil and gas lease sale consisting of 12 tracts in Musselshell, Sheridan, and Toole Counties. The sale generated historic revenue, with the lone Sheridan County tract drawing a $2,740-per-acre bid totaling $2,140,304.
By conducting oil and gas lease sales through an online auction platform, the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and all-Republican Montana Land Board have been successful in improving the competitive bid process and generating stronger returns from Montana’s trust lands.
“I’m proud that more efficient, competitive online auctions conducted under this administration are helping generate stronger returns from Montana’s trust lands,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “Every additional dollar we earn through responsible stewardship is a dollar that can support Montana schools and students.”
Secretary Jacobsen and the Land Board also approved four timber projects in Flathead, Lincoln, Missoula, and Powell counties. The timber sales are expected to generate at least $293,000 in revenue.
The Land Board also approved several easements that will benefit Montanans. Easements in Cascade and Teton counties will improve access for farming and ranching operations, while a fiber optic easement in Fallon County will support more reliable phone and broadband services for local homes and businesses.