1. Conservation Easements: 2 long time families in the valley have generously tied up large parcels along the Flathead River with Conservation easements. Conservation Easements eliminate the possibility of subdividing the land, in some ways impacting the owner from making the most money from this property if and when they should ever want to sell it. The public benefits greatly with guaranteed access to fishing and recreation. I applaud these actions.

2. Both Whitefish and Kalispell are working on proposals for parking garages. As in any growing area, there is a great need for the added parking space so locals and tourists and shop and eat in downtown areas.

3. Our snowpack is great this year which is a good thing for the whole area. We have seen more "normal" amounts of snow in the valley as well for the first time in a few years. Whitefish Mountain Resort has received 189" of snow to date! You can access current mountain reports at www.bigmtn.com.

4. FEMA has recently updated their flood plain maps impacting some developments at the mouth of the Flathead River leading into Flathead Lake. Those homeowners effected must obtain flood insurance if their homes are mortgaged.

It is the time of year Cary Jo's Team works to get listings online before the spring rush. We do this because there is less competition on the market and there are still buyers out there. Below are 2 new listings we have just added:

20 Acre Horse Property: 3 bed 1.5 bath home, barn with 9 stalls and a training area, outdoor riding arena, huge pole barn for storing hay, 2 large run in sheds. 2 septic systems. A wonderful set-up! $579,000

Rogers lake cabin on leased state land which will appear on our web site the end of this week for $129,000

All properties can be viewed at www.kalispellcary.com