New Interpretive Signs Bring the Manhattan to Gallatin River Trail to Life

The Manhattan to Gallatin River Trail has received a thoughtful upgrade, thanks to a partnership between the Gallatin Conservation District (GCD) and the Manhattan Rotary Club. Newly installed interpretive signs now line the trail, offering visitors insights into the area’s scenic beauty, native plants, and diverse wildlife.

Trail chairpersons Wendy and Chris Meier of the Manhattan Rotary Club spent the past year collaborating with Becky Clements and Elizabeth Emeline of GCD to replace the original signage, which had weathered nearly two decades of Montana’s seasons. The trail itself, constructed and maintained by the Rotary Club, has served the community for almost 20 years.

“At the request of the Rotary Club, we explored ways to enhance the trail system,” said Becky Clements at the ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the new signs. “The Rotary Club has done an incredible job maintaining this trail, and this project was a perfect opportunity for us to partner and contribute.”

Clements explained that updating the signs was a top priority. “We worked together to determine the key natural and ecological features to highlight. With the help of artist Jessica Bone of JCBCONCEPTS, the result is a series of resource-focused signs that showcase the unique beauty of this area,” she said.

Wendy Meier expressed gratitude to the Gallatin Conservation District for their partnership, and to longtime trail stewards Bob and Mary Dewitt, who have volunteered countless hours mowing, removing weeds, picking up litter, and clearing snow.

The Manhattan Rotary Club funds trail maintenance year-round through community donations and fundraising events. However, more extensive upgrades are on the horizon.

“In the near future, the trail will need significant repair and resurfacing, which will cost tens of thousands of dollars—a major challenge for our small club,” Wendy said. “Hundreds of people use this trail to hike, bike, walk their dogs, and jog. We hope more community members will consider supporting its revitalization.”

The Manhattan Rotary Club brings together local business, professional, and civic leaders to serve the community. In addition to maintaining the trail, the club funds local scholarships and student recognition programs, and leads hands-on projects that improve the quality of life in Manhattan.

Conservation districts were first established in 1935 in response to the environmental crisis of the Dust Bowl. Today, over 3,000 districts nationwide help protect and manage natural resources- one in every county. The Gallatin Conservation District, formed in 1949, promotes sustainable management of soil, water, cropland, grazing lands, and wildlife habitats in Gallatin County. Through partnerships, education, technical assistance, and cost-share programs, GCD supports landowners and the community in safeguarding these resources for present and future generations.

Gallatin Conservation District also administers Montana’s Natural Streambed and Land Preservation Act (commonly called the 310 Law) and remains active in community education programs and the Manhattan Farmers Market during the summer months. The district is overseen by a board of seven supervisors with a combined 94 years of experience serving Gallatin County.