Bozeman, MT – Thanks to the recently formed Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF), pilots have a new ally in their efforts to protect and preserve recreational airstrips nationwide. Headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, the RAF is intimately familiar with recreational flying and backcountry airstrip issues in the Rocky Mountain west ? an area at the forefront of several proposed closures.
Pilot organizations throughout the country are fighting identical battles with state and federal land managers. The RAF recognized and fulfilled the need for a central source of accurate information regarding the values and minimal impacts of recreational and backcountry flying.
The RAF has already provided assistance to pilots in several western states and is working closely with the BLM to protect six airstrips in Montana?s Upper Missouri Breaks National Monument.
The RAF is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Through the use of tax-deductible donations, they are actively seeking private land for the development of new public-use recreational airstrips and facilities. The RAF looks forward to announcing a major acquisition in early 2005.
The RAF understands that larger, paved airports serve as gateways to the backcountry. Pilot shelters and camping facilities will be made available at several of these cross-country destinations and backcountry portals. The first shelter is under construction at Gallatin Field (BZN) in Bozeman, Montana and will offer pilots a place to pitch a tent on the grass near their airplane, relax in front of a fire and even take a hot shower.
The Foundation invites donations of any kind, including land suitable for airstrip development. Donations are fully tax-deductible and the RAF has tax and legal assistance available for donors.
More information is available on-line at www.recreationalaviationfoundation.org or by writing them at 1711 W. College Street, Bozeman, MT 59715
