With 2027 in view, Eastern Plains Economic Development Corporation officials are in pursuit of an updated five-year comprehensive economic development strategy. A recent state grant award is going to help get the job done.

Earlier this month, the Montana Department of Commerce announced the award of more than $285,000 through its Community Development Block Grant Planning Grant Program to eight communities across the state, including $45,000 to Prairie County.

According to Terra Burman, executive director for EPEDC, the funding will aid the organization’s effort to create its 2027-32 comprehensive economic development strategy document — or CEDS — by allowing it to hire a consulting firm to handle the compiling of data. Although Prairie County is named as the recipient of the $45,000, Dawson, Wibaux, Carter and Fallon counties will also benefit from the award.