Governor Greg Gianforte and Amanda Kaster, the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), have announced an allocation of $80.8 million for public schools in Montana, sourced from revenue generated by state trust lands.
“Since taking office, we’ve ensured DNRC has responsibly managed state trust lands to invest in Montana’s public education system,” Gov. Gianforte stated in a press release. “Thanks to their work, we’re able to make an $80 million investment to make sure our students have the resources they need to succeed and reach their full potential.”
Montana State Auditor James Brown highlighted the essential role of the Montana State Land Board in strengthening public education. He announced that during Fiscal Year 2025, state trust lands generated more than $80.8 million in revenue for Montana’s public schools and endowed institutions. Out of this total, $73.4 million was designated as Common Schools Base Aid, providing essential support for Montana’s K-12 education system, helping students and schools across the state. These nearly 5.2 million acres of state trust lands are managed to generate income through sustainable agriculture, grazing, timber, and energy development, while also promoting wildlife habitats, hunting, recreation, and well-paying jobs.
Between 2021 and 2025, the DNRC will have invested $337 million into Montana’s public schools and institutions derived from these state trust lands. These lands are managed to provide long-term, sustainable revenue for public education and other beneficiaries. The DNRC oversees over five million acres of state trust land, generating income through various means, including agricultural and grazing leases, oil and gas development, forest management, commercial real estate, and recreational use. Collectively, these efforts provide stable support for the K-12 education system in Montana.
“Thanks to responsible stewardship of state trust lands by the Montana Land Board and DNRC, Montana’s schools can better meet the needs of our students,” stated Superintendent Susie Hedalen. “As State Superintendent, I see firsthand how these investments support classrooms and change lives. We are truly grateful for these partnerships and our shared commitment to Montana’s kids.”
“Supporting Montana’s public schools is one of our highest priorities,” said DNRC Director Amanda Kaster. “It’s a privilege that through the stewardship of our state trust lands, we help provide students and teachers across our state with the technology, tools, and classroom resources they need to thrive. DNRC remains committed to investing in education for Montana students today and for generations to come.”
Funds distributed to the Office of Public Instruction (OPI) are used by school districts statewide to improve educational opportunities. These resources aid in technology updates, enhancements to school safety, facility maintenance, classroom supplies, and other priorities identified by districts that reinforce student learning environments.
Montana will continue to emphasize responsible management and long-term stewardship of state trust lands to ensure that future generations of students benefit from these public resources.
“State trust lands funding is especially important in Montana because our state is one of the few with a dedicated trust that directs revenue from public lands straight into our schools,” Brown said. “At a time when many Montanans are feeling the squeeze from rising costs and property taxes, this revenue provides essential classroom resources without adding pressure on local taxpayers. It’s a uniquely Montana solution that helps students thrive while keeping education affordable for working families.”
“As a member of the Montana Land Board and a four-generation Montanan, I am honored to help defend our public lands and steward our natural resources in a way that delivers lasting benefits for Montana students,” Brown said. “This funding is transformational. It supports classrooms, educators, and communities, and helps ensure every child has access to a quality education, no matter their ZIP code in the Treasure State.”
By Karen Anderson: January 1, 2026 – Helena, Mt
Author: Karen Anderson
Karen is the Editor-in-Chief overseeing all news operations at Foxys Publishing Co. She also loves photography and spending time with her dogs.
