use. Sites that attracted many visitors from across the 

 nation rated higher than sites that attracted local visitors. 



D) Scientific reference or educational value. Sites were 

 rated on their existing level of use for scientific or 

 educational purposes. Sites receiving a high rating might 

 include type localities or sites traditionally used by school 

 groups . 



GEOLOGIC FEATURES 



In the geological features assessment, unique or exemplary 

 geological or hydrological features and previously designated 

 areas such as National Natural Landmarks (NNLs) were examined. 

 The geologic features assessment followed the guidelines outlined 

 in the botanical features assessment with respect to assignment of 

 value classes and the criteria used. Information on geological 

 features was collected from published sources and through 

 interviews with acknowledged experts with Montana State 

 University, University of Montana, Museum of the Rockies, Carter 

 County Museum, U.S. Geological Survey, and DNRC. For the 

 geological features inventory, existing NNL theme studies provided 

 the starting point for the inventory, and sites were added to 

 these lists. 



