“Elkhorn Cemetery is the resting place for families of the original homesteaders and miners,” said Rehberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee.  “These folks have a rich history in the area. It’s only fitting the descendants of those buried there should be able to maintain and use this burial site for generations to come.  This legislation would correct an unfortunate surveying error and protect the historical integrity of the cemetery.”

            The Elkhorn Cemetery has been in existence since the 1860’s and is still in use by local families who homesteaded and worked in area mines.  However, due to surveying errors the cemetery was included in the boundaries of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.  Unfortunately, Forest Service policy discourages burials on National Forest lands.  The Montana Cemetery Act of 2007 would fix the problem by conveying 9.67 acres of National Forest System land, upon which the Elkhorn Cemetary is located, to Jefferson County.

            “It’s time we get this thing cleared up,” said Fred Bell, head of the Elkhorn Cemetery Board.  “This is an important spot for the Elkhorn community and I’m hopeful we can quickly get this legislation passed.”

            “This legislation will help right a wrong that’s been overlooked for 100 years,” said Rehberg.  “It’s important we move quickly on this bill and remove this cemetery from the federal boundaries.”