Inmates at Montana State Prison are actively involved in a unique program where they raise thousands of pheasants for the state, blending agriculture with conservation efforts. This initiative not only provides the inmates with valuable skills such as animal care and teamwork but also contributes to Montana’s hunting initiatives, with 39,000 birds released in 2025 alone as part of the “Roosters for Recruitment” program.
The pheasant ranch allows inmates to experience a sense of accomplishment that is often absent in prison life, fostering personal growth and reduced recidivism rates. With a projected 60,000 birds set for release next year, the program continues to expand, creating more opportunities for inmates while benefiting local hunters and supporting wildlife management efforts across the state.
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