Blackfoot River closed from River Junction to Russell Gates due to power lines in the water

BONNER – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has now closed the upper Blackfoot River from River Junction Fishing Access Site (FAS) to Russell Gates Memorial FAS due to safety concerns resulting from power lines that are in the water after Wednesday’s severe storm.  

In addition to this new closure, the Clark Fork River also remains closed from Milltown State Park, just east of Missoula, to Petty Creek Fishing Access Site (FAS), about 20 miles west of town. The Bitterroot River is still closed from Chief Looking Glass FAS near Florence to the confluence with the Clark Fork River near Missoula. These closures went into effect on July 25 and will continue as long as danger from power lines in the water exists. 

A July 24 severe thunderstorm in the Missoula area caused extensive damage to power lines, trees and property in the west-central Montana area.  

Recreationists should use caution in areas impacted by the storm and find other spots to go if possible. If you are out, expect that you might encounter power lines on roadways and potentially across waterways that have not yet been identified, as well as downed trees and other debris that could be blocking recreation sites and creating safety hazards in the water.  

All river closures will stay in place until safety concerns have been resolved. For more information on closures and restrictions, visit fwp.mt.gov/news/current-closures-restrictions. 

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