Over $59.4M distributed
$374 per student in 2024
Pay your State Trust Lands invoice online.
Pay your agriculture, grazing, cabin site, and other trust lands invoices fast and easy online!
Montana’s schools and other public institutions benefit from a unique funding source—state-owned lands known as Trust Lands. These lands are managed to generate revenue that directly supports Montana’s public education system.
Agriculture and Grazing Leases
We manage 4.7 million acres of State Trust Lands for agriculture and grazing leases. These lands play a vital role in supporting the state’s agricultural economy while simultaneously generating revenue for the trusts. This sustainable approach ensures long-term benefits for both Montana’s farmers and ranchers and our educational system.
Leasing Opportunities
Recreation on State Trust Lands
Montana State Trust Lands are open for public recreation, but a Conservation License is required for legally accessible activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. By obtaining the proper license and recreating responsibly, you help keep these working lands open for future enjoyment.
Real Estate Management
This program supports diverse real estate activities, including commercial, residential, and renewable energy leases. These efforts also involve easements, land sales, exchanges, and licensing, generating revenue while promoting responsible development and benefiting trust beneficiaries.
Minerals Management
We oversee the management and leasing of state-owned mineral resources. This includes agreements for oil and gas, coal, metalliferous and non-metalliferous minerals, as well as sand and gravel.
Forest Management
Our Forest Management Program oversees 793,000 acres of state trust forest lands, balancing sustainable timber production with resource conservation. Our team of specialists ensures all timber sales and forest activities are carefully planned, reviewed, and approved to generate income for trust beneficiaries while protecting the long-term health of Montana’s forests.