Report on July Activities at Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument

Introduction

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Missouri Breaks Interpretive Center (MBIC) in Fort Benton, Montana, is offering a series of free, family-friendly activities throughout July. These initiatives align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), by promoting environmental education, outdoor recreation, and conservation awareness.

Scheduled Activities

1. Ranger Chats: “Meandering along the Missouri”

   • Dates & Times: Saturday, July 5, 10-11 a.m.; Saturday, July 12, 1-2 p.m.
   • Locations: Coal Banks Landing Campground (east of Loma, Montana) and James Kipp Recreation Area (near Fred Robinson Bridge on U.S. Highway 191)
   • Description: Participants will learn about the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument and receive assistance in planning outdoor adventures.
   • SDG Alignment: Promotes SDG 15 by fostering awareness and appreciation of natural landscapes and biodiversity.

2. Birding in Montana and Along the Missouri River

   • Dates & Times: Fridays, July 11 and 25, 1-2 p.m.
   • Location: MBIC, 701 7th Street
   • Description: Guided tours along scenic trails to observe local bird species; participants are encouraged to bring binoculars or borrow from the center.
   • SDG Alignment: Supports SDG 15 by encouraging biodiversity conservation and SDG 3 by promoting physical activity and mental well-being.

3. Junior Ranger Program: Ancient Art and Paint Making

   • Date & Time: Thursday, July 24, 10 a.m. to noon
   • Location: First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park
   • Description: BLM staff will teach children ancient rock art and paint making techniques, connecting cultural heritage with environmental stewardship.
   • Registration: Contact Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks at 406-866-2217
   • SDG Alignment: Advances SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by preserving cultural heritage and educating youth.

Outdoor Recreation Opportunities

The Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument encompasses approximately 377,000 acres of BLM-administered public land. The area offers diverse land and water features suitable for a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, contributing to SDG 15 by conserving terrestrial ecosystems and SDG 3 by encouraging healthy lifestyles.

• Geographical span: 149 miles of the Upper Missouri River, adjacent Breaks country, Arrow Creek, Antelope Creek, and the Judith River
• Nearby landmarks: Fort Benton and Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge

Visitor Information and Planning

• Contact: Missouri Breaks Interpretive Center at 406-622-4000
• Location: MBIC, open Monday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., including holidays
• Admission: Free for all ages
• Additional Resources: Trip Planning Information

BLM Mission and Sustainable Development Goals

The BLM’s management of the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument exemplifies its commitment to sustaining the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands for current and future generations. This approach supports multiple SDGs, including:

• SDG 15 (Life on Land): Conservation of landscapes, wildlife habitats, wilderness study areas, and wild and scenic rivers.
• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Provision of recreational opportunities that promote physical and mental health.
• SDG 4 (Quality Education): Environmental and cultural education through ranger programs and interpretive activities.
• SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): Preservation of cultural heritage sites associated with historic trails and expeditions.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Promotion of outdoor recreational activities and family-friendly events supports physical and mental health.
2. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Educational ranger chats, interpretive programs, and Junior Ranger activities promote lifelong learning and environmental education.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Preservation of cultural heritage sites such as rock art and historical trails enhances sustainable community development.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Conservation and sustainable management of public lands, wildlife refuges, and natural resources.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.4: Promote mental health and well-being through recreational activities.
2. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Target 4.7: Ensure all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including environmental education.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.4: Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Target 15.1: Ensure conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems.
   • Target 15.2: Promote sustainable management of forests and halt biodiversity loss.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. SDG 3 Indicators
   • Prevalence of participation in outdoor recreational activities and community health metrics related to physical activity.
2. SDG 4 Indicators
   • Number of educational programs conducted (e.g., ranger chats, Junior Ranger programs) and participant engagement levels.
3. SDG 11 Indicators
   • Number and condition of preserved cultural heritage sites such as rock art and historical trails.
4. SDG 15 Indicators
   • Area of protected public lands and wildlife refuges managed sustainably (e.g., 377,000 acres mentioned).
   • Biodiversity status and conservation outcomes within the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: blm.gov