USFS/DNRC fire protection swap would affect Frenchtown Face
by Cindy Super, Clark Fork Chronicle, February 18 2010 [here]
The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and the United States Forest Service (USFS) are working to exchange portions of their wildland fire protection acres to improve the suppression efficiencies of the two agencies responsible for protecting these areas. The DNRC is seeking public comment before March 15 regarding the proposed exchange.
Under the current proposal, the DNRC would exchange remote roadless portions of their current protection for lower more accessible valley bottoms.
The DNRC would acquire areas of the so-called “Frenchtown Face” in the Huson area. The Huson portion includes classified forested land in Roman Creek, Houle Creek and Sixmile Creek that is primarily private and state ownership.
The DNRC would also be responsible for the Lolo Creek area, which includes Highway 12 to approximately mile marker 20. This would include the majority of the private land on either side of Highway 12.
The Forest Service would become responsible for areas at the head of Gold Creek near the borders with the Rattlesnake Wilderness, the head of Deep Creek, Gilman Creek and Albert Creek, which is part of the Graves Creek Range. The Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge would also become the responsibility of the Forest Service.
If you have comments or questions please contact Matthew Hall with the Missoula DNRC at 406-542-4312. The public comment period will be open until March 15.