SPA 124 Lavene Creek Culvert Replacements BNF; Conner, MT FWP-DN-FSH-124-R2-25-008
Apr 4, 2025 10:07 AM
The Bitterroot National Forest has applied for a Montana Stream Protection Act 124 permit to replace two culvert crossings on NFSR 5630 where it crosses Lavene Creek, a tributary to the West Fork Bitterroot River. The project also includes permanently removing one additional culvert by consolidating two stream crossings into one. All three existing culverts are undersized, perched, and impede upstream fish movement. The proposed culvert replacements/removal on Lavene Creek will eliminate three fish passage barriers currently present in the drainage. Following project completion there will be unrestricted fish passage throughout Lavene Creek. Lavene Creek supports only westslope cutthroat trout, a species of concern. A barrier culvert at the mouth of stream associated with the West Fork Highway crossing will remain in place to protect the population from hybridization with rainbow trout found in the West Fork Bitterroot River.
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.
FWP hereby adopts the Draft EA as final and approves Alternative 2, the Proposed Action.