In East Helena, wetlands park emerges from Superfund site

Dozens of locals descended on Lewis and Clark County’s newest recreation area last Thursday to enjoy the grand opening of Prickly Pear Park and celebrate the transformation of the former ASARCO smelter site into welcoming public wetlands.

“I give so much credit to the citizens of East Helena for being along on what’s been a pretty emotional and tough ride over the years,” Prickly Pear Land Trust Executive Director Mary Hollow said after cutting the ceremonial yellow ribbon to open the park just north of Jefferson County.

Visitors from East Helena, Montana City, Clancy, Helena, and beyond wandered the two-mile loop trail through tall grass and marshes while enjoying hot dogs, burgers, cookies, and soft drinks provided by Prickly Pear Land Trust.