MISSOULA — Missoula County is preparing for an influx of outdoor recreation activities as summer heats up and temperatures soar. From Marshall Mountain to floating the Clark Fork River, issues surrounding parking, transportation, and trail maintenance are at the forefront. Additionally, fulfilling an agreement with the U.S. Forest Service is a top priority.
Chet Crowser, the county’s chief lands and communities officer, mentioned that efforts are underway to assess stand densities, disease indicators, and roads on the 480 acres of public land at Marshall Mountain. The county is also working on an interim forest plan in collaboration with Montana Forest Consultants, aiming to present a management plan to the USFS by July.
In 2018, voters approved an Open Space Bond, part of which was used for the public acquisition of Marshall Mountain. Various events, including mountain bike competitions, have already taken place at the site. The county is partnering with Mountain Bike Missoula to create accessible trails and adaptive-friendly routes with funding secured for trail development.
The installation of new grandstands at the Missoula County Fairgrounds is complete, and Larchmont Golf Course is experiencing increased traffic. With temperatures expected to reach the upper 90s, preparations for the summer float season, including new parking and bike racks at Sha-Ron, are underway.
Due to the University of Montana not operating a summer shuttle to Sha-Ron, Mountain Line will provide transportation services. Coordination with river ambassadors and stakeholders is ongoing to ensure smooth access to the river and parking.
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