Public Hearing On Proposed Rules Regulating The Use Of Snowmobiles On Open, Public Water

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The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission is seeking public comment on proposed rules regulating the use of snowmobiles on open, public water.  The proposed rules would close all public waters within the state to snowmobiles, while still allowing snowmobiles to cross or enter public water if the water is frozen or it is necessary to cross a small stream while traveling on snow.

The use of snowmobiles on open, public water became an issue last year when an individual drowned on Newlan Creek Reservoir while operating a snowmobile on open water.  The snowmobile slowed and then sank into the reservoir.  The FWP Commission, proposed this new rule to reduce the public safety risk to those who may attempt to use snowmobiles on open water.

A public hearing will be held on Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. at the FWP Region 4 Headquarters, 4600 Giant Spring Road in Great Falls.  A public hearing in Anaconda was held on Feb. 12.

Comments may be made at the hearing or in writing.  Written comments must be sent by Feb. 22 to John Ramsey, Fish, Wildlife & Parks, 1420 East Sixth Ave, PO Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620-0701 or by using the FWP internet site at fwp.state.mt.us by selecting comments and then selecting enforcement.