Undercutting of Black Bridge FAS road prompts walk-in traffic

Visitors asked to use first parking area, respect barriers

MILES CITY – The access road to the Black Bridge Fishing Access Site is experiencing severe undercutting following high river flows this season, creating a safety concern. FWP has limited the site to walk-in traffic and erected barriers and signage several times, but users continue to drive around them or remove them on an almost daily basis.

Previously there was sufficient space alongside the access road for a parking area, but the river has eroded that and is now significantly undercutting the road. As the river level drops, it continues to carve into the bank.

According to FWP maintenance foreman Erik Dion, “The road appears more stable than it is as you approach it. But you don't realize that it's just hanging there with little underneath it until you get out and look from another angle.”

FWP is asking visitors to use the first parking area about 100 yards back from the problem area and walk in to the site. The agency wants to maintain access to this heavily used site, but if people continue to disregard safety barriers, further restrictions may be necessary. Also, the area will be patrolled and people are encouraged to report those who drive around or remove safety barriers.

FWP continues to assess the situation, but river flows are very dynamic and it is not an easy nor a quick fix. Repairs or workarounds also would further restrict access during the busy summer and fall seasons.

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