Draft Environmental Assessment Bull River Wildlife Management Area Blowdown Salvage Project

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks proposes to conduct forest management activities on the Bull River Wildlife Management Area (BRWMA).  The proposed project would include the use of mechanized treatments to remove blowdown trees, reduce conifer stocking around aspen clones to promote growth and regeneration of this species, and reduce hazardous fuels bordering private lands.  The project would also include road maintenance work and reclamation activities.  On January 13, 2021, a major wind event impacted western Montana, resulting in significant blowdown across the Kootenai/Cabinet region, including the BRWMA.  The southeastern portion of the BRWMA was impacted to varying degrees, with approximately 120 acres being more heavily impacted.  The affected stands are primarily 40 to 65-year old lodgepole pine.  The accumulations of downed trees have created a fire hazard and could present a barrier to suppression in the event of a wildfire.  The downed trees are also susceptible to bark beetle infestation, especially mountain pine beetle and pine engraver.  Potential timber value of the downed trees will rapidly decline from decay and wood-boring insects within the first year.

Related Documents

Bull River WMA Blowdown Salvage Draft EA (PDF)

Public Comment Opportunity

FWP asks that comments on this draft environmental assessment be submitted to either of the following addresses by 5:00 pm on August 2, 2021:

                          Tonya Chilton-Radandt                                          or            tchilton@mt.gov

                          Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks

                          385 Fish Hatchery Rd

                          Libby, MT 59923