Jacob Glass
Glastonbury, CT
Documenting grassroots wilderness protection efforts in Montana's Scotchman Peaks
Straddling the Idaho-Montana border, the 88,000-acre Scotchman Peaks Roadless Area is one of the largest remaining wild areas in the region. Inspired by the “soaring proud pines, migratory moose herds, and pristine air” of the region, Jacob Glass produced En Plein Air, a film that documents the efforts of Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness, a grassroots group formed in 2005 to get federal wilderness protection for the region. The documentary, by Glass’s film company Wildman Pictures, focuses on two painters who use their artwork to convey their appreciation for the mountains. En Plein Air received nationwide media attention and dramatically increased Friends of Scotchman Peaks’ membership. The surge of public support for the wilderness designation led to endorsements from many area chambers of commerce and Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer.