Lolo Creek Tenant Decision Notice FWP-DN-FSH-124-R2-25-014

Apr 29, 2025 4:37 PM

This EA involves stream permitting associated with the Lolo National Forest’s collaborative project adjacent to Highway 12 west of Lolo (Earl Tenant campground). Lolo Creek was historically channelized and rip-rapped due to the highway construction. This project would realign 0.5 miles of the creek in a wide segment of valley bottom and relic channel. Wetland and instream habitat restoration and revegetation would be used to reduce flood energy, increase off-channel water storage, and improve fisheries and aquatic habitat. The stream, floodplain, and wetland areas would be reconnected, and a buffer would be created between the stream and the road to allow for channel adjustments. The restoration would be completed in a publicly accessible area and is intended to be a demonstration project.

The proposed project will improve natural stream function, riparian habitat, and wetlands, as well as enhance wild and native trout habitat. Lolo Creek and its tributaries provide a fishery and are a major source of recruitment for the Lower Bitterroot River and Missoula area. By implementing an improvement project and restoring important habitat, this proposed project would help meet the wild trout management goals of FWP, Trout Unlimited, and other partners. This project will benefit fish species, stream function, anglers, and the public who recreate at the site.

Based on the environmental review provided in the Draft EA, and, to the greatest extent possible, in accordance with all applicable laws, rules, regulations, and policies, FWP determined the proposed action (Alternative 2) will not have significant adverse impacts on the human environment and constitutes a reasonable and appropriate strategy to achieve identified objectives. Therefore, preparation of an environmental impact statement or EIS is unnecessary. The stream enhancement project proposed by U.S. Forest Service and partners will be implemented as proposed to improve fisheries, wetlands, and water quality on Lolo Creek.

FWP hereby adopts the Draft EA as final and approves Alternative 2, the Proposed Action.