The National Museum of Forest Service History unveiled a 27,000-square-foot facility dedicated to America’s conservation history. This development marks a structural enhancement in preserving and presenting environmental heritage through innovative museum design and interactive exhibits.

Located near Missoula’s airport on Highway 10, the new center features artifacts and documents collected over decades, with a focus spanning from Indigenous conservation practices to modern efforts. The building’s mass timber construction involved contributions from 14 forest products companies, underscoring the collaboration between industry and preservation. Architect Tom Chung designed the award-winning structure, incorporating a six-foot-wide digital table called “Rings of Change” that allows visitors to explore conservation history by decade. Museum executive director Lisa Tate emphasized the hope that locals and visitors nationwide will engage with the exhibits.

The museum is now open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., excluding major holidays.

Montana’s abundant forests and timber industry may find economic and cultural resonance in the center’s use of mass timber and focus on conservation history. This facility might strengthen regional identity while attracting tourism and professional interest in sustainable building materials.

National Museum of Forest Service History has grand opening in Missoula
By Emily Brown, KPAX News