Lincoln Back-Country Protective Association

In 1963 interested people formed the Lincoln Back Country Protective Association to preserve and conserve the backcountry near Lincoln, Montana, as a roadless wilderness area. Dr. George F. Weisel of the Western Montana Fish and Game Association, Dr. John Craighead of the Montana Wilderness Association and Cecil Garland, a Lincoln Outfitter, worked together with Senator Mike Mansfield and Senator Lee Metcalf to change the U.S. Forest Service plan. That plan was to open the entire 240,000 acres for multiple-use. This coalition was formed to preserve a large northern portion for wilderness and a small southern portion for multiple-use. Having successfully designated 239,936 acres as a roadless wilderness area, the organization dissolved in 1972. The Scapegoat Wilderness is located 75 miles northeast of Missoula, 10 miles north of Lincoln, and immediately south of the Bob Marshall Wilderness.

From the guide to the Lincoln Back Country Protective Association Records, 1963-1972, (Maureen and Mike Mansfield Library Archives and Special Collections)