SECTION 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.2 PURPOSE 1
1.3 AUTHORITY 1
1.4 PLANNING AREA 2
1.5 REGIONAL CONTEXT 3
1.6 POPULATION 4
1.6.1 Population Growth Projections 4
SECTION 2
EXISTING RECREATION AREAS 6
2.1 COUNTY PARKLAND DEFINITION 6
2.2 INVENTORY OF EXISTING RECREATION FACILITIES WITHIN SANDERS COUNTY 6
2.2.1 Dixon 6
Dixon Community Park 6
Old Sloans Rd. Boat Launch
2.2.2 Paradise and Vicinity 7
Paradise City Park 7
Highway 135 7
Quinn’s Resort 7
FWP Boat Launch
Koo Koo Sint Boat Launch
Hwy 385 Tribal Boat Launch
2.2.3 Hot Springs and Vicinity 7
School/Outdoor Facility 7
Rifle Range 7
Lonepine Reservoir 7
Rainbow Lake 8
Symes Hotel Mineral Baths 8
Wildhorse Mineral Baths 8
Camas Prairie 8
2.2.4 Plains and Vicinity 8
Sanders County Fairgrounds 8
Clark Fork Valley Hospital 8
Town of Plains 8
2.2.5 Thompson Falls and Vicinity 9
Montana Highway Department 9
Wild Goose Landing 9
Thompson Falls Museum 9
Island Park 9
High Bridge…………………………………………………………………………………….
Power Park 10
Powerhouse Loop Trail………………………………………………………………………
USFS Fitness Trail/Mule Pasture 10
Thompson Falls Elementary School 10
Thompson Falls High School 10
Ainsworth Field 11
Rimrock RV Park 11
Cherry Creek Boat Launch & Dock……………………………………………………….
Thompson Pass 11
2.2.6 Trout Creek and Vicinity 11
Huckleberry Festival Grounds 11
Trout Creek School 11
2.2.7 Noxon and Vicinity 12
Noxon Public School 12
2.2.8 Heron and Vicinity 12
Community Center/Park 12
Heron Museum 12
2.2.9 Noxon Reservoir 12
2.2.9.1 Developed Facilities 12
Riverfront RV Resort 12
Rivers Bend Golf Course 13
Birdland Bay RV Resort 13
Thompson Falls State Park 13
Flat Iron Ridge FAS 13
Finley Flat Recreation Area 13
Trout Creek Recreation Area 14
Frog Pond Dispersed Use Area
Marten Creek Recreation Area 14
South Shore Recreation Area Near Noxon Rapids Dam 14
Noxon Rapids Dam Overlook 15
North Shore Recreation Area (USFS) 15
2.2.9.2 Undeveloped Sites 15
Upper Finley Flat Dispersed Use Area 15
Trout Creek Dispersed Use Area 15
Frog Pond Dispersed Use Area 16
Beecher Flats Dispersed Use Area 16
Dody Flats Dispersed Area 16
Stevens Creek Bay/Point Dispersed Use Area 16
North Shore Dispersed Use Area Near Noxon Rapids Dam 17
Swamp Creek Dispersed Use Area 17
Vermilion River Dispersed Use Area 17
Inner Vermilion Bay Dispensed Use Area 17
Vermilion Boat Ramp Site 17
2.2.10 Cabinet Gorge Reservoir 18
2.2.10.1 Developed Facilities 18
Pilgrim Creek Park 18
Noxon Boat Ramp/Centennial Park 18
Triangle Pond Recreation Area 18
Cabinet Gorge Dam Overlook 19
Big Eddy Recreation Area 19
Cabinet Gorge Two River RV Resort 19
Bull River Recreation Area 19
2.2.10.2 Undeveloped Sites 20
Noxon to Heron Roadside Pullouts 20
Quinn's Cut Dispersed Use Area (also known as Diamond Lake) 20
Elk Creek Access 20
Blue Creek Access 20
Government Creek Access 20
Rock Creek Access 20
2.2.11 USFS Lolo National Forest 21
2.2.11.1 Developed Facilities 21
Gold Rush Campground 21
Copper King Campground 21
Clark Memorial Campground 21
West Fork Fishtrap Creek Campground 21
Fishtrap Lake Campground 22
Cascade Campground 22
Ferry Landing 22
2.2.11.2 Undeveloped Sites
West Fork Dry Creek
Muchwater Dispursed Area
2.2.11.23 Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger District Trail Guide 22
2.2.11.34 Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger District Lookout Rental Program 24
Priscilla Peak Lookout Cabin 24
Bend Guard Station 24
Cougar Peak Lookout Cabin 25
2.2.12 USFS Kootenai National Forest 25
2.2.12.1 Developed Facilities 25
Willow Creek Campground 25
Bull River Ranger Station 25
.2.12.2 Undeveloped Sites 26
Pine Cone 26
Jack Pine Flats 26
2.2.12.3 Cabinet District Trail Guide 26
2.2.12.4 Cabinet Ranger District Lookout Rental Program 28
Fire Lookout Rentals 28
Gem Peak 28
Sex Peak 28
Minton Peak……………………………………………………………………………………
Bull River Guard Station………………………………………………………………………
2.2.12.5 Cabinet Mountain Wilderness 29
2.2.13 County Wide School Trust Lands 30
SECTION 3
LOCATION OF ALL COUNTY PARK LAND 31
GREEN MOUNTAIN CLARK FORK RIVER TRACTS Error! Bookmark not defined.
FRONTIER RIVER SITE Error! Bookmark not defined.
PARADISE RANCHETTES Error! Bookmark not defined.
LONEPINE Error! Bookmark not defined.
HENRY CREEK MEADOWS……………………………………………………………
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WAPITI POINT DRIVE PARK Error! Bookmark not defined.
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COLUMBIA RIVER ESTATES SITE 1…………………………………………………
COLUMBIA RIVER ESTATES SITE 2………………………………………………………
VERMILION POINT NOXON RESERVOIR ACCESS SITE 1 Error! Bookmark not defined.
VERMILION POINT NOXON RESERVOIR ACCESS SITE 2 Error! Bookmark not defined.
LARCHWOOD SOUTH SHORE……………………………………………………….
NOXON TOWNSITE Error! Bookmark not defined.
SMALL TOWN……………………………………………………………………………
HERON TOWNSITE 1 Error! Bookmark not defined.
HERON TOWNSITE 2 Error! Bookmark not defined.
HERON TOWNSITE 3………………………………………………………………………………….
CABINET GORGE LAKE ESTATES SITE 1 Error! Bookmark not defined.
CABINET GORGE LAKE ESTATES SITE 2 Error! Bookmark not defined.
SECTION 4
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS 33
4.1 INTRODUCTION 33
4.2 COUNTY PARKLAND CATEGORIES 33
4.2.1 General Site Requirements 33
4.2.2 Open / Green Space 33
4.2.3 Semi Developed Areas 34
4.2.4 Highly Developed Areas 34
4.2.5 Trails / Pathways 34
4.2.6 Income Generating Lands 34
4.3 PARK / RECREATION AREA DEVELOPMENT 34
4.3.1 Mission Statement 35
4.3.2 By-Laws 35
4.3.3 Sanders County Recreation Needs Survey 35
4.3.4 Public Input 35
4.4 PARK OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE 36
4.5 FUNDING SOURCES 36
APPENDIX A
PARK BOARD GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 1
APPENDIX B
PARK BOARD BY-LAWS 1
APPENDIX C
SANDERS COUNTY RECREATION SURVEY 1
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Planning Area Map 2
Figure 2 Regional County Map 5
SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The Sanders County Park Board was formed in the year 2000 to oversee and manage county parklands. Seven five volunteer board members represent all of Sanders County, including the eastern region (Dixon, Paradise, Plains), the northern region (Hot Springs, Lonepine), the central region (Thompson Falls, Trout Creek), and the western region (Noxon, Heron). Board members are appointed by the county commissioners for one-, two-, or three-year terms.
The Park Board members serve as advocates for responsible management and equitable allocation of the resources entrusted to their management for public use. Information about current Park Board members and/or meeting dates and times may be obtained by calling the Sanders County Information Desk/Commissioners Office at 827-6942.
The mission of the Park Board is to actively promote opportunities for recreation and provide universal access to parklands for residents with all levels of accessibility needs. There are currently 87 108.5 acres of Sanders County parkland that are not operated under a management plan adopted in _____. To fulfill its mission of making the parklands available to all residents, the Board developed this Master Plan for managing the 87 108.5 acres and any additional acreage that is acquired in the future. To assist in the development and management of this land, the Park Board contracted American Public Land Exchange Company (APLE) to conduct a recreation survey of Sanders County residents’ desires for recreation (Appendix C).
This Master Plan is now being updated to reflect current conditions and facilities in the county.
1.2 PURPOSE
The Park Board Master Plan for Sanders County provides a vision of stewardship for the county’s parkland system and the means of implementing this vision. The Master Plan also serves as a guide for maintaining the long-term viability of Sanders County’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources through investments in parks, open space, access, and habitat. The Park Board will develop a partnership with individuals, organizations, tribes and agencies when appropriate.
The Master Plan directs an on-going process of decision-making to balance use, development, and resource protection.
1.3 AUTHORITY
The plan is authorized and required by Montana Code Annotated, 7-16-2324(3)(a)(b), which requires the county to:
a. compile an inventory of all public parks and playgrounds within the county, and,
b. prepare a comprehensive plan for provision of outdoor recreation and open space within the county.
1.4 PLANNING AREA
Figure 1 Planning Area Map
1.5 REGIONAL CONTEXT
Sanders County is located in Northwest Montana in what is commonly referred to as Glacier Country and shares a border with the Idaho panhandle on the west, including parts of the Flathead Indian Reservation on the east. The Montana Glacier Country/Idaho Land of Many Lakes region provides a diverse variety of recreation opportunities and resources, both for the local resident and for destination visitors. A variety of opportunities are available including dispersed recreation on undeveloped public lands, wilderness experiences in primitive, pristine settings, and more concentrated use at popular developed recreation sites. Visitors to the region find opportunities for numerous activities, including picnicking, fishing, boating, hiking, climbing, off-highway vehicles (OHVs), viewing wildlife, hunting, camping, swimming, snowmobiling, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and others in a variety of settings.
Some of the regional resources, which attract large numbers of destination visitors, include Glacier National Park, Lake Pend Oreille, Lake Coeur d'Alene, National Bison Range, Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge, Flathead lLake, and others. National Forests are another regional recreation attraction throughout this area, serving the needs of both destination recreation visitors as well as the local populace. The National Forest campgrounds may perform other functions as well, for example as overflow areas for camping when destination areas such as National Parks are filled to capacity, for side trips for the destination visitor, and as intermediate stops on the way to other destinations. In addition, many destination visitors to the region purposely search out the less crowded and more primitive opportunities that are often found on National Forest or other undeveloped lands open to the public.
The numerous lakes in the region are major recreation attractions. Several of these lakes (Lake Pend Oreille, Lake Coeur d'Alene, and Flathead Lake) offer outstanding visitor experiences and are well known regionally and nationally. There are also dozens of smaller lakes and reservoirs complementing the diverse mix of recreation and leisure opportunities.
The Idaho Panhandle is one of the region's most popular areas for water-based recreation. Idaho Recreation Region 1 includes 3 National Forests, 3 downhill ski areas, 5 state parks, 1 National Wildlife Refuge, 24 golf courses, and more than 50 campgrounds and recreation resorts (IDT 1997).
Montana's Glacier Country is home to Glacier National Park, 4 National Forests, 4 downhill ski areas, 13 state parks, 2 major National Wildlife Refuges, 25 golf courses, approximately 100 recreation resorts, 100 public campgrounds, and 100 private campgrounds (Travel Montana 1997a). There are opportunities for hunting and fishing, boating, water-skiing, hiking, camping, sightseeing, and other activities throughout this travel region. All of Sanders County lies within this travel region designation.
The proximity of the international border, shared between Canada and the United States, presents additional opportunities, challenges, and issues that make the region unique. A fluctuating exchange rate between U.S. and Canadian dollars, tax differentials, and the historic openness of the border are a few of the issues specific to this region that may affect recreation decision-making.
This 13-county area encompassing northwestern Montana and northern Idaho is home to several recreation destination areas, some of which are internationally recognized, and numerous of regional or local significance. The resort community of Sandpoint, Idaho lies 30 miles downstream from the Sanders County line on Lake Pend Oreille. Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille are popular destinations for anglers and other recreationists from throughout the United States and Canada. Other recreation destination areas include Glacier National Park, the Kootenai River, the Lower Clark Fork and its tributary streams, the Upper Clark Fork (Alberton Gorge area), Lake Koocanusa, Hungry Horse Reservoir, and several skiing areas (both downhill ski resorts and cross-country ski areas).
The region that includes Sanders County provides a relatively undeveloped setting for natural resource and water-based recreation activities. Other recreation providers in the region include the USDA Forest Service (USFS), the US Army Corps of Engineers (COE), the National Park Service (NPS), the US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks (MFWP), the Idaho Department of Fish & Game (IDFG), Idaho Department of Parks & Recreation (IDPR), local municipalities, private business, Montana PPL Northwestern Energy Company, and Avista Corporation.
The area's character is predominantly rural and small town residents with agricultural development interspersed among large tracts of undeveloped land. A number of significant population centers are found in the region as well, including Spokane, Washington; Coeur d'Alene and Sandpoint, Idaho; and Missoula and Kalispell, Montana. The region's character is dominated by the large amount of timbered land and rugged mountains.
1.6 POPULATION
Sanders County population information was obtained from the 2000 2010 US Census, which established Sanders County's total population at 10,227 11,413.
Sanders County contains three incorporated cities: Thompson Falls (population 1,321 1,313), Plains (population 1,126 1,048) and Hot Springs (population 531 544). The remainder of the county residents resides in unincorporated towns and rural areas.
1.6.1 Population Growth Projections
Sanders County growth is currently from two sources: in-migration and natural rate of increase from births. The census data shows a ten-year increase of population for the county of 18 11.6%, a growth of approximately 1.8 1.1% a year.
This rate of increase may or may not continue. Sanders County has recently attracted many retirees that increased the population. The loss of timber and mining jobs has changed the economy and locations of growth in the county and increased the average age of residents.
Figure 2 Regional County Map
SECTION 2
EXISTING RECREATION AREAS
2.1 COUNTY PARKLAND DEFINITION
Land designated by the Sanders County Park Board as parkland includes the following categories. These categories are fully defined in Section 4, Plan Recommendations.
□ Open/Green Space
□ Semi Developed Areas
□ Highly Developed Areas
□ Trails / Pathways
□ Income Generating Lands
Parkland sites must meet minimum requirements for semi-developed and highly developed recreation sites. The basic requirements are as follows:
□ Legal access to the property
□ Appropriate safety features; e.g. fencing, lighting
□ Meet applicable building codes
□ Conform to ADA specifications
□ Access for emergency vehicles
□ Appropriate signage: interpretive and informative
□ Appropriate restroom facilities
□ Appropriate parking space
□ Vandalism resistant facilities and equipment
2.2 INVENTORY OF EXISTING RECREATION FACILITIES WITHIN SANDERS COUNTY
Note: This inventory begins at the eastern boundary of Sanders County [junction of Highway 200 and Highway 93] and ends at the western boundary [Idaho State border]. The recreation areas adjoining the reservoirs and in the National Forests are grouped separately. Recreation sites are listed regardless of ownership.
The Park Board makes no claim as to the completeness of the Sanders County recreation site inventory contained in this document, nor does the Board claim that the designated use is now or will be in the future the same as identified. The recreation inventory was completed to provide background information and help guide the Park Board in developing future parklands to complement existing recreation areas (please see Goals and Objectives in Appendix A).
2.2.1 Dixon
Dixon Community Park
□ located between the senior citizen center and the fire hall
□ baseball diamond
Old Sloans Rd. Boat Launch
2.2.2 Paradise and Vicinity
Paradise City Park
□ picnic tables
FWP Boat Launch
□ vault toilet
Koo Koo Sint Boat Launch
□ vault toilet
Tribal Highway 385 Boat Launch
□ picnic table
Highway 135
□ located two miles east of Paradise
□ 22 miles southwest to I-90
□ national forest scenic byway
□ primitive camping and Forest Service Campground
□ hike/bike trails along river
□ Clark Fork River boat launch
□ interpretive signs
Quinn’s Resort
□ located two miles southwest of Highway 200 on Highway 135
□ use fee facilities
• mineral baths
• swimming pool
• cabins
• restrooms
• restaurant
• Conference Center
2.2.3 Hot Springs and Vicinity
School/Outdoor Facility
□ permission of school official to use
□ baseball field
□ tennis courts
□ basketball courts
□ football field
Rifle Range
□ open to the public
Lonepine Reservoir
□ tribal permit required for use
□ community hall for large meetings, music groups, dances, barbeques, and children’s play area
Rainbow Lake
□ campground use by tribal permit on reservation grounds
□ campground use for general public on state owned grounds
Symes Hotel Mineral Baths
□ call 406-741-2361 for use fee information
□ open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Wildhorse Mineral Baths
□ call 406-741-3777 for use fee information
□ open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
□ be there by 8 p.m. for full hour
Camas Prairie
□ Camas recreation center mineral baths
• call 406-741-2972 for use fee information
□ Camas Prairie Glacier Lake Missoula giant ripples visible in area
2.2.4 Plains and Vicinity
Sanders County Fairgrounds also see Riverside Park
□ river side picnic area with tables/pavilion
□ BBQ grills
□ vault toilet
□ playground equipment
□ sandy beach for swimming
□ developed boat launch to the Clark Fork River
□ River Trail
□ ground set aside for a Moto Cross track; used for parking during the Sanders County fair
□ entire fairground area is available for rent for large group use
Clark Fork Valley Hospital
□ walking/exercise trail
Town of Plains
□ Fred Young Park
• located at the comer of Lynch Street and Willis Street
• picnic shelter and restroom
□ Community Park
• located at the corner of Willis Street and Oak Street
• wading pool for small children, sponsored by the Plains Lions Club
• E. L. Johnson Memorial pool (fee)
• Public restroom at the pool
• two tennis courts
• playground equipment
• basketball court and volleyball area
• picnic shelter
□ Plains School System
• playground
• lighted basketball court
• exercise trail
• baseball fields
□ Eastern Sanders County Sportsman Club
• undeveloped boat launch and river access (McKay River Access) on River Road West approximately 16 miles west of the fairgrounds
• rifle and pistol range located near the Golf Course west of Plains
• open to the public (fee)
□ Plains Trap Club
• trap range located next to the rifle and pistol range
• clubhouse and outdoor restroom
• open to the public Thursday night and Sunday afternoon (fee)
□ Plains Golf Club
• nine-hole golf course located on Highway 200 two miles west of Plains
• clubhouse and restroom
• open to the public (fee)
Wildhorse Sports Association
□ ball fields
□ soccer fields
□ walking trails
□ restroom
□ concessions
2.2.5 Thompson Falls and Vicinity
Montana Highway Department
□ bighorn sheep viewing area on Highway 200 approximately 7 miles east of Thompson Falls
Wild Goose Landing
□ located on Highway 200 at the east end of Thompson Falls
□ fishing access
□ developed boat launch
□ picnic area
□ public restroom
Thompson Falls Museum
□ located in city of Thompson Falls on south Madison Avenue
□ housed in original Sanders County Jail
□ gift shop
□ history and culture of area
Island Park
□ located in city of Thompson Falls at the south end of Gallatin Street
□ day-use interpretive site provided by Montana Power Company Northwestern Energy
□ facilities include the following:
• system of trails (ADA-accessible)
• interpretive exhibits
• 1 2 vault toilets (ADA-accessible)
• viewpoints
• osprey nest perch
• picnic tables
• limited parking
High Bridge
□ scenic bridge across the Clark Fork, just below the dam
□ connecting access to Cherry Creek Rd.
Power Park
□ located in city of Thompson Falls at 1500 block of Maiden Lane
□ picnic area and shelter
□ trail to river
□ scenic overlook
□ ADA restroom
Powerhouse Loop Trail
□ Vault toilet
□ View points
USFS Fitness Trail – Mule Pasture
□ located in city of Thompson Falls north of Fourth and Ferry
□ fitness signs along path
□ no restroom or drinking fountain
Thompson Falls Elementary School
□ located on corner of Haley and Columbia streets
□ outdoor basketball courts
□ tennis courts
□ playground equipment
Thompson Falls High School
□ located north of Highway 200 at the east end of Haley Street
□ tennis courts
□ outdoor basketball court
□ running track
□ two baseball fields
□ gym open in summer for public
□ public swimming pool open in summer
Dog Park @ Community Center
□ fenced area
□ benches
□ water
Ainsworth Field
□ located at the corner of Highway 200 and Lincoln (west end Thompson Falls)
□ baseball field
□ restroom
□ walking trail
□ veterans memorial
□ outdoor amphitheater
Rimrock RV Park
□ located on the west end of Thompson Falls adjacent to Rimrock Lodge
□ privately owned facility
□ 19 spaces
□ comfort center includes
• washer/dryer
• showers
• restrooms laundry facilities
□ restaurant
□ bowling alley
□ walking trail
Cherry Creek Boat Launch and Dock
□ located on south side of Clark Fork River
□ boat dock and launch
□ vault toilet
□ picnic tables
Thompson Pass
□ turn south onto Prospect Creek Road at its junction with Highway 200, four miles west of Thompson Falls
□ scenic route to Murray, ID, and Highway I-90
□ closed in winter
□ prominent snowmobile trail in winter
□ vault toilet
□ interpretive signs
□ access to USFS trails
2.2.6 Trout Creek and Vicinity
Huckleberry Festival Grounds
□ located south of Highway 200 at the east end of Trout Creek
□ site of annual Huckleberry Festival
□ picnic area
□ playground equipment
□ restrooms
□ park host camping pad
Trout Creek School
□ located on Pine Street in Trout Creek
□ baseball field
□ outdoor basketball
□ playground equipment
2.2.7 Noxon and Vicinity
Noxon Public School
□ located on Railroad Street in Noxon
□ gym open periodically for public use
□ outdoor tennis courts
□ outdoor basketball courts
□ playground equipment
2.2.8 Heron and Vicinity
Community Center/Park
□ located on Railroad Avenue in Heron
□ indoor/outdoor basketball
□ baseball field
□ camping area
□ concession stand
□ restroom
□ regularly scheduled festivals/plays
Heron Museum
□ located on Railroad Avenue in Heron
□ information on local history and culture
2.2.9 Noxon Reservoir
2.2.9.1 Developed Facilities
Riverfront RV Resort
□ private facility located on the upper end of Noxon Reservoir, about I mile west of Thompson Falls on State Highway 200
□ open year round.
□ facilities include the following
• resort cabins
• RV campsites with hookups
• tent sites
• swimming beach
• restrooms
• showers
• laundry facilities
• store
Rivers Bend Golf Course
□ located along the upper end of the Noxon Reservoir shoreline about 1 miles west of Thompson Falls off Blue Slide Road
□ facilities include the following:
• clubhouse
• 9-hole golf course and related facilities
• flush toilets (ADA-accessible)
• drinking water available
• parking area (ADA-accessible)
Birdland Bay RV Resort
□ privately owned resort located off Blue Slide Road about 1 mile west of Thompson Falls at the upper end of the Noxon Reservoir
□ facilities include the following:
• dock and waterfront access
• small fishing pond
• RV campsites with hookups
• tent sites
• showers
• laundry facilities
• ADA-accessible restrooms
• parking area
Thompson Falls State Park
□ located 1.5 miles off State Highway 200 between mile markers 47 and 48
□ day-use and camping along the upper Noxon Reservoir
□ facilities include the following:
• 17 campsites with tables and grills
• 16 day-use picnic tables, with 2 picnic shelters
• non-ADA accessible vault toilets
• 1-lane unimproved boat launch to the river
• self-serve registration and pay station
• volunteer host on-site from May I to September 30
• parking for 20 or more cars and trailers in the day use area
Flat Iron Ridge FAS
□ managed and maintained by MFWP
□ located adjacent to State Highway 200 approximately five miles west of Thompson Falls
□ facilities include the following:
• parking for approximately 10 vehicles with boat trailers and 6 vehicles without trailers
• 1-lane poured concrete boat launch
• concrete boat dock and fishing pier
• 3 picnic tables (1 is designed to be ADA-accessible)
• 1 ADA-accessible vault toilet
• 1 remote ADA-accessible fishing platform (too far from the water's edge)
Finley Flat Recreation Area
□ located 1.8 miles off of State Highway 200 between mile markers 41 and 42
□ access is difficult for non-local visitors to locate as the road is not marked along the highway
□ facilities include the following:
• 2-lane concrete plank boat launch
• floating dock
• 6 primitive campsites (no hookups)
• pit toilet
• parking for approximately 20 vehicles with or without boat trailers
Trout Creek Recreation Area
□ located in the town of Trout Creek on State Highway 200 at mile marker 29
□ maintained by the Trout Creek Improvement Association (or interim arrangement) and is located on land permitted by Avista
□ facilities include the following:
• 2-lane concrete plank boat launch
• floating dock
• swimming beach and sunbathing area
• 6 picnic tables and 2 pavilions with grills
• 2 vault toilets (non ADA-accessible)
• parking for 15 to 25 vehicles with or without trailers
Frog Pond Recreation Area
□ 1-acre pond formed by a raised railroad line and levee
□ located outside the town of Trout Creek along the paved road to Marten Creek
□ dirt road provides access at the west end of the pond
□ access to the reservoir over the railroad line levee is difficult
□ developed area on east side of pond with parking is available for approximately 5 vehicles
□ ample trees and grass, with several informal fire rings on site
□ developed paths
□ no restroom facilities vault toilet (ADA accessible)
□ remote ADA accessible fishing platform
□ picnic tables
□ no trash receptacles
Marten Creek Recreation Area
□ located at the intersection of Forest Roads 2229 and 151 at Marten Creek Bay
□ facilities include the following:
• 2-lane concrete plank boat launch
• floating dock
• 3 campsites with picnic tables, pavilions, shelters, and grills
• 2 vault toilets (ADA-accessible, except for pathways)
• informational sign
• Parking for 15 or more vehicles and boat trailers
South Shore Recreation Area Near Noxon Rapids Dam
□ located on the reservoir south of Noxon Rapids Dam
□ owned and maintained by Avista
□ facilities at this site include the following:
• 1-lane boat launch (metal sheeting on a gravel bed)
• boat dock
• undesignated primitive sites for camping or picnicking (approximately 8 sites)
• gate for preventing public access to the reservoir during high-reservoir conditions and spills
Noxon Rapids Dam Overlook
□ located 1.5 miles off State Highway 200 near mile marker 19
□ owned and operated by Avista
□ viewpoints include: the main lower day-use site and an upper viewpoint pullout
□ facilities include the following:
• 5 picnic tables (non ADA-accessible)
• 1 picnic pavilion
• fenced viewpoint (chain-link)
• running water
• 2 vault toilets (non ADA-accessible)
• parking for approximately 3O vehicles
North Shore Recreation Area (USFS)
□ located three miles west of Trout Creek off Highway 200 between mile markers 26 and 27
□ fee campground and non-fee day-use area with boat launch
□ facilities include the following:
• 2-lane concrete plank boat launch, usable at low pool level
• floating dock (non ADA-accessible)
• nature trail and signage, brochures provided
• 12 campsites with picnic tables and grills (1 is fully ADA-accessible, 2 are accessible but need raised fire rings)
• drinking water available
• 3 day-use shelters
• 8 non-ADA accessible picnic tables
• 3 ADA-accessible vault toilets
• paths connecting the various facilities in the park area
• informational display
• self-service entrance/fee station and camp host services
2.2.9.2 Undeveloped Sites
Upper Finley Flat Dispersed Use Area
□ large area used for dispersed camping, picnicking, and shoreline angling
□ vehicle access blocked by concrete blocks in the stream to protect sensitive wildlife habitat
□ accessible by foot only through stream
□ access is fairly easy due to the flatness of the area
Trout Creek Dispersed Use Area
□ located at confluence of Trout Creek and Noxon Reservoir
□ roadside parking
□ shoreline angling access
□ 2 campsites are available—one on either side of the creek.
• west side of the creek has a lot of trees, good water access for shore fishing, parking for 2 to 5 vehicles, 1 to 2 dispersed sites, and a number of informal fire rings
• east side of the creek opens up to a bench, with adequate space for dispersed camping for 10 to 20 persons, informal fire rings, parking for up to 15 vehicles and trailers, shoreline water access is limited
□ no restroom facilities
□ no trash receptacles
Frog Pond Dispersed Use Area MOVED TO DEVELOPED SITES
□ 1-acre pond formed by a raised railroad line and levee
□ located outside the town of Trout Creek along the paved road to Marten Creek
□ dirt road provides access at the west end of the pond
□ access to the reservoir over the railroad line levee is difficult
□ developed area on east side of pond with parking is available for approximately 5 vehicles
□ ample trees and grass, with several informal fire rings on site
□ no developed paths
□ no restroom facilities vault toilet (ADA accessible)
□ remote ADA accessible fishing platform
□ picnic tables
□ no trash receptacles
Beecher Flats Dispersed Use Area
□ located outside the town of Trout Creek along the paved road to Marten Creek
□ roadside pullouts and shoulder parking with access to the reservoir for shoreline angling
□ unimproved boat launch
□ undesignated parking for two vehicles with trailers
□ access is difficult via a steep trail
□ no restroom facilities
□ no trash receptacles
Dody Flats Dispersed Area
□ located on the south shore of Noxon Reservoir near the mouth of Blacktail Creek
□ undesignated parking in excavated gravel pit and shoulder of Forest Road 2229
□ shoreline access for angling
□ access via a steep trail is difficult
□ no restroom facilities
□ no trash receptacles
Stevens Creek Bay/Point Dispersed Use Area
□ access from Forest Road 2229 approximately 1 mile upstream of the Noxon Rapids Dam
□ access road is difficult and not suitable for 2-wheel drive vehicles
□ undesignated parking under power lines
□ easy access by boat
□ dispersed day use picnicking
□ camping available for approximately 3 groups
□ shoreline angling and swimming
□ reservoir views from this site are spectacular
□ no restroom facilities
□ no trash receptacles
North Shore Dispersed Use Area Near Noxon Rapids Dam
□ access is via a short segment of shoreline and railroad access near Noxon Rapids Dam
□ access good for 4WD vehicle and truck only
□ provides good water access and space for a dozen or more campsites
□ reservoir views are spectacular; adjacent rail line traffic distracting and loud
□ abandoned pit toilet on site
□ unimproved boat ramp
□ no trash receptacles
Swamp Creek Dispersed Use Area
□ located on Highway 200 near mile marker 22
□ access via a 100-yard dirt road or by parking along the shoulder of the highway
□ shoreline angling and swimming
□ access does not require crossing the railroad right-of-way, but tracks immediately adjacent to the site create a potential hazard for children
□ no developed paths, changes in topography, and amount of brush and vegetation make the site difficult to access
□ no restroom facilities
□ no trash receptacles
Vermilion River Dispersed Use Area
□ located on the Blue Slide Road four miles from State Highwav 200 at mile marker 28
□ two access sites on either side of the river
• east side of the river near the road has an unimproved gravel boat launch with limited, undesignated parking along the shoulder of the road and at roadside pullouts four vehicles with trailers
• west side of the river has a gravel boat launch, space for several dispersed campsites, and shoreline fishing
□ no restroom facilities
□ no trash receptacles
Inner Vermilion Bay Dispensed Use Area
□ located upstream from Vermilion River dispersed use area
□ paved access road close to the shoreline
□ provides car-top boat access to Noxon Reservoir
□ parking area pullout can accommodate approximately two vehicles
□ shoreline fishing
□ no restroom facilities
□ no trash receptacles
Vermilion Boat Ramp Site
□ exit Highway 200 one mile west of Trout Creek on Blue Side Road to about a mile east of the Vermilion River
□ a short dirt road (only about 20 yards in length) provides access to the reservoir via an unimproved ramp
□ no parking available at this site
□ no facilities
2.2.10 Cabinet Gorge Reservoir
2.2.10.1 Developed Facilities
Pilgrim Creek Park
□ located on Marten Creek Klakken Road in Noxon
□ maintained by the Pilgrim Creek Park Board Association (land belongs to Avista)
□ good shoreline access for fishing or swimming
□ large portion of the land in the immediate vicinity of the park is undeveloped
□ entrance to the park is next to a county parcel where road gravel is stored
□ Pilgrim Creek Park provides the following facilities:
• 2 softball/baseball fields with bleachers
• Frisbee golf course
• fishing pier
• 6 picnic tables (ADA-accessible)
• group shelter
• trash containers/dumpster
• playground area
• 4 toilets (2 vault toilets, ADA-accessible except for the pathway, and 2 flush toilets)
• camp host station
• drinking water available
Noxon Boat Ramp/Centennial Park
□ located in the town of Noxon
□ boat launch maintained by Avista is on Avista land
□ The following facilities are found at Centennial Park:
• one 2-lane concrete plank boat launch
• boat tie up dock
• 6 picnic tables
• 1 day-use shelter
• 1 barbecue (BBQ) grill
• 1 vault toilet
• drinking water available
• trash containers
• horseshoe pits with spectator bleachers
• parking for approximately 20 vehicles (10 vehicles with and 10 without boat trailers)
Triangle Pond Recreation Area
□ located four miles west of Noxon on the Noxon-Heron Road
□ developed USFS site located on a 4-acre pond near the reservoir that was created as a result of water seepage under the railroad grade from Cabinet Gorge Reservoir
□ physically separated from Cabinet Gorge Reservoir by a railroad levee and right-of-way
□ facilities include the following:
• parking for 50 or more vehicles (25 vehicles with and 25 without boat trailers)
• unimproved boat launch
• free-floating dock for swimming
• 4 picnic tables with grills
• 1 day-use shelter
• 2 vault toilets
• informational sign
• no trash pickup at this site—"pack-it-in/pack-it-out" area.
Cabinet Gorge Dam Overlook
□ owned and maintained by Avista
□ located 0.5 mile off State Highway 200 at mile marker 63
□ views of the hydroelectric facilities and Cabinet Gorge are spectacular
□ facilities at the Cabinet Gorge Dam Overlook include:
• project-related interpretive display
• grassy area separated from the main overlook area
• vault toilet restrooms (non ADA-accessible)
• trash receptacles and pickup
• chain-link safety fence
Big Eddy Recreation Area
□ USFS located 0.5 mile off State Highway 200 between mile markers 6 and 7
□ located on land owned by Avista and USFS
□ non-fee camping and day-use site popular with local residents.
□ existing recreation facilities include:
• 1-lane concrete plank boat launch
• floating dock
• dispersed campsites (no hookups, no tables, no grills)
• day-use picnic tables with grills
• 1 day-use shelter
• informational sign
• 1 vault toilet
• undesignated parking available for 15 to 20 vehicles with boat trailers
Cabinet Gorge Two River RV Resort
□ privately owned resort at the mouth of Bull River owned by Avista
□ located about 5 miles west of the town of Noxon
□ open all year and offers the following facilities:
• 26 RV sites
• 12 tent sites
• 15 picnic tables
• swimming beach
• ADA-accessible restrooms
• drinking water available
• shoreline fishing
• showers
• laundry facilities
Bull River Bay Recreation Area
□ USFS recreation site located off State Highway 200 at mile marker 11
□ includes a fee campground and non-fee day-use area and boat launch
□ day-use area and campground areas are connected by trails
□ site is well maintained and modem
□ facilities include the following:
• 2-lane concrete plank boat launch
• floating dock
• 26 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings (5 are ADA-accessible, and 1 is reserved until 6 p.m. every day for use by mobility-impaired persons)
• 3 day-use picnic tables and 2 day-use shelters
• drinking water available
• 5 ADA-accessible vault toilets
• paths to some facilities are ADA-accessible
• self-service entrance/fee station and camp host services
2.2.10.2 Undeveloped Sites
Noxon to Heron Roadside Pullouts
□ located along the lower road between Noxon and Heron
□ roadside access points for angling and swimming are available to the public
□ parking is limited to wide spaces in the road; traffic is light
□ opportunities for swimming and shoreline fishing
□ not heavily used and in good condition, with minimal human waste and trash
□ accessibility varies by site; no developed paths
Quinn's Cut Dispersed Use Area (also known as Diamond Lake)
□ located on Noxon-Heron Road approximately 6 miles from the town of Noxon and 4.5 miles from the town of Heron
□ long, narrow pond approximately 2 acres in size created during railroad construction
□ access via a roughly graded 0.5 mile road that is generally not suitable for 2-wheel drive vehicles
□ reservoir access by foot is difficult (over the railroad levee and right-of-way)
□ swimming and shoreline fishing are activities known to occur on these sites
Elk Creek Access
□ located 1.2 miles east of Heron on the lower road to Noxon
□ limited parking along the road shoulder
□ creek mouth and bay accessible for swimming and angling
□ accessibility to reservoir difficult because very steep footpaths
Blue Creek Access
□ located near mile marker 1 on State Highway 200
□ fishing access site
□ limited parking available along shoulder highway
□ access to creek is possible but difficult due to very steep terrain
□ pond located on upstream side of the highway fill
□ large deposits of logs and deadfall make access more difficult
Government Creek Access
□ located across the river from Pilgrim Creek Park and the town of Noxon
□ provides fishing access
□ parking available along the shoulder of State Highway 200 and at one pullout
Rock Creek Access
□ located two miles upstream from Noxon and one mile downstream from Noxon Rapids Dam
□ provides fishing access
□ parking available along the shoulder of State Highway 200 and on rail line access roads
□ access to the mouth of the creek is difficult due to the steep terrain and the lack of trails and paths
2.2.11 USFS Lolo National Forest
Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger District
P. O. Box 429
Plains, MT 59859
406-826-3821
16 Developed Facilities
Gold Rush Campground
□ 3,000 ft. elevation
□ 9 miles south of Thompson Falls on the East Fork of Dry Creek Road
□ ADA facilities
□ fee charged
□ drinking water
□ streamside fishing
□ open June 1 to September 21
Copper King Campground
□ 2,000 ft. elevation
□ 4 miles north of Highway 200 on Thompson River Road
□ fee charged
□ 5 campsites
□ 9 miles to groceries
□ no drinking water
□ fishing access on Thompson River
□ open May 25 to September 21
Clark Memorial Campground
□ 2,700 ft. elevation
□ 5 miles north of Highway 200 on Thompson River Road
□ ADA facilities
□ fee charged
□ 10 miles to groceries
□ no drinking water
□ fishing access on Thompson River
□ open May 25 to September 21
West Fork Fishtrap Creek Campground
□ 4,200 ft. elevation
□ 40 miles north of Highway 200 on Thompson River and Fishtrap Creek Road 516
□ fee charged
□ 4 campsites with picnic table and fire ring
□ drinking water
□ fishing access on Fishtrap Creek
□ open June 1 to September 21
Fishtrap Lake Campground
□ 4,100 ft. elevation
□ 48 miles north of Highway 200 on Thompson River, Fishtrap Creek and Forest Road 7593
□ ADA facilities
□ fee charged
□ drinking water
□ 10 campsites
□ lake fishing access
□ open June 1 to September 21
Cascade Campground
□ on Highway 135 five miles southwest of Highway 200 junction
□ overnight camping at 11 campsites 1 group & 9 single sites with picnic table and fire ring
□ fee charged
□ potable water
□ outdoor restrooms
□ natural cave
□ river access
□ trail to waterfall—moderate
□ scenic view
Ferry Landing
□ on Highway 135 between Highway 200 and I-90 (10 miles from each junction)
□ developed boat launch
□ fishing access
□ trail hiking/biking
□ picnic area with outdoor restrooms
□ no drinking water
2.2.11.2 Undeveloped Sites
West Fork Dry Creek Dispersed Site
□ Dry Creek Road, passed Gold Rush Campground
□ Primitive camping
□ Vault toilet
Muchwater Recreation Area
□ On Hwy 135 beween Cascade and Ferry Landing
□ River access for floaters
□ Vault toilet
□ Access being upgraded by USFS
2.2.11.23 Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger District Trail Guide
|Trail Name |Trail # |Length |Legal |Difficulty |Elevation Change |
|Pinehill |118 |1.5 | | | |
|Murr Creek |145 |6.9 | | | |
|Murr Canyon View Pt. |145A |.3 | | | |
|Beatrice Saddle |167 | 2.9 | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Big Rock Creek |211 |10.5 | | | |
|Snowstorm Ridge |220 | 6.3 | | | |
|Chippy Creek |238 | 7.8 | | | |
|Iron Mountain Wagon Road |242 | 6.1 | | | |
|Cascade Falls Overlook |242.1A | 0.1 | | | |
|Clark Fork Overlook Spur |242B |.02 | | | |
|Teepee Mtn Basoo Peak |245 |4.7 | | | |
|Dry Creek-Hill 7 |274 | 2.1 | | | |
|West Fork Knox Creek |284 | 1.8 | | | |
|Bear Creek |285 | 8.5 | | | |
|Reservation Divide |290 |12.0 | | | |
|Cook Mountain |291 | 5.0 | | | |
|North Fork Little Thompson |310 | 0.9 | | | |
|Baldy-McGinnis |340 | 3.4 | | | |
|Baldy Lake |340.1A | 0.2 | | | |
|Corona Divide |240.2340.1 | 2.25 | | | |
|Todd Springs |345 | 2.5 | | | |
|Big Hole Lookout |368 | 2.7 | | | |
|Spring Creek |370 | 7.0 | | | |
|Munson Creek |372 | 4.9 | | | |
|Sacajawea Peak |385 | 8.5 | | | |
|Acorn Lake |386 | 1.7 | | | |
|Dee Creek |398 | 3.6 | | | |
|Anne Creek |426 |6 | | | |
|Sundance Ridge |433 |13.3 | | | |
|North Fork 4 Lakes |437 | | | | |
|East Koo Koo Sint |445 | 3.54.2 | | | |
|West Koo Koo Sint |445.1 | 4.5 | | | |
|Silcox-Headley |450 |15.9 | | | |
|Ashley Creek |454 | 3.4 | | | |
|Cabin Lake |459 | 1.9 | | | |
|South Fork 4 Lakes |460 | 2.8 | | | |
|Honeymoon Creek |469 | 4.8 | | | |
|Goat Lake |478 | 2.1 | | | |
|Goat Lake Connector |479 |0.9 | | | |
|Cherry Creek |498 | 2.5 | | | |
|TFalls Fitness Trail |500 | 2.2 | | | |
|Corona Div XC Ski |501 | 3.5 | | | |
|Goat Lake Connector |505 | 0.9 | | | |
|Winniemuck Creek |506 | 6.4 | | | |
|Squaw Creek |520 | 5.2 | | | |
|Headley Cutoff |521 | 1.3 | | | |
|Blossom Lake |522 | 4.5 | | | |
|Blossom Horse Cutoff |522.1A | 0.4 | | | |
|Vermillion-Headley |528 | 3.7 | | | |
|Slide Rock Mountain |529528.2 | 6.0 | | | |
|Sheep Camp |535 | 2.4 | | | |
|Upper Blossom Lake |537 | 0.4 | | | |
|Cougar Peak |541 | 1.9 | | | |
|Camp Creek |557 | 3.2 | | | |
|Gold Rush |562 | 4.6 | | | |
|Joan Creek |570 | 4.1 | | | |
|Knox Creek |571 | 4.3 | | | |
|West Fork Dry Creek |572 | 3.9 | | | |
|Dry-Wilkes Divide |578 |10.4 | | | |
|South Fork Wilkes Creek |579 | 3.6 | | | |
|Wilkes Creek |584 | 7.2 | | | |
|Table Top Mountain |590 | 8.2 | | | |
|Daisy Creek |604 | 5.29 | | | |
|Clear Creek |627 | 5.5 | | | |
|Stick Gulch |667 | 2.1 | | | |
|West Crow Creek |680 | 3.9 | | | |
|Chipmunk Creek |688 | 2.8 | | | |
|Evans Lake |696 | 3.4 | | | |
|Glidden Creek |701 | 3.3 | | | |
|Big Spruce Creek |1102 | 4.3 | | | |
|Arrow Head Lake |1102.1 | 0.2 | | | |
|Fish Trap Lake |1104 | 2.1 | | | |
|Fishtrap Lake Cutoff |1104.1A | 0.1 | | | |
|Eddy Ridge |1130 | 3.0 | | | |
|Outlaw Lake |1131 |1.3 | | | |
|Snowstorm-Rock Creek |1215 | 3.0 | | | |
|Bay State Creek |1268 | 5.5 | | | |
|Tepee Creek |1309 | 5.9 | | | |
|West Fork Swamp Creek |1400 | 5.4 | | | |
|Cube Iron Mountain |1510 | 2.3 | | | |
|Upper Graves Creek |1511 | 0.5 | | | |
|Thorne Creek |1512 | 7.5 | | | |
|Twenty-Four Mile Creek |1707 | 3.4 | | | |
|Fourteen Mile Creek |1714 | 45.7 | | | |
2.2.11.34 Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger District Lookout Rental Program
Priscilla Peak Lookout Cabin
□ located 10 miles NE of Thompson Falls
□ call Plains Ranger District for fee and reservation
□ steep four mile climb via trail to lookout
□ no heat source
□ weather extremes probable
□ very rustic
□ available July 15 to September 15
Big Hole Lookout Rental????
Bend Guard Station
□ located 32 miles N of Thompson Falls
□ call Plains Ranger District for fee and reservation
□ one mile from intermittently plowed road in winter
□ check for current road conditions
□ electric heat
□ hot showers
□ basic kitchen implements furnished
□ open all year
Cougar Peak Lookout Cabin
□ located 10 miles NW of Thompson Falls
□ call Plains Ranger District for fee and reservation
□ cabin sits on ground near the end of Road 403
□ 150 foot hike to lookout
□ collect firewood locally
□ open July 10 to October 1
2.2.12 USFS Kootenai National Forest
Cabinet Ranger District
2963 Highway 200
Trout Creek, MT 59874
407-827-3533
2.2.12.1 Developed Facilities
Willow Creek Campground
□ 3600 ft. elevation
□ 19 miles northeast of Trout Creek on Vermilion Road
□ 4 overnight campsites with tables, fire grates
□ 20 ft. site length (RV use)
□ vault toilets
□ disabled facilities available
□ no water, no garbage cans (pack in/pack out)
□ no fee
□ open year-round – managed May 15 to September 30
□ stream fishing access, big game hunting in the fall, nearby hiking
Bull River Ranger Station See 2.2.12.4 for more information
□ primitive cabin at the base of the Cabinet Mountains
□ available to rent year round
□ located off Highway 56 on Forest Road #407--turn east and drive two miles to Road #2278 and go less than one mile
□ nature trail with interpretive signs
□ listed on the National Register of Historic Places
• pets should be on a leash and kept off the main site; tether horses away from the building
• park only in areas away from the building
• absolutely no smoking in or around the building
• feel free to picnic at the site; please remove what you pack in
• please do not remove anything from the site, including flowers, rocks or wood
2.2.12.2 Undeveloped Sites
Pine Cone
□ From the Cabinet Ranger Station, go east on Highway 200 to the Vermillion River Bridge (about 1½ miles) and turn onto Blue Slide Road. Follow it about 6 miles to the site (near Kirby Gulch).
□ pit toilet
□ one table and grill
□ no fee
□ no garbage cans (pack in/pack out)
□ picnicking
□ nearby hiking, big game hunting in the fall
Jack Pine Flats
□ From the Cabinet Ranger Station, go east on Highway 200 about 10 miles to Beaver Creek Road (#152). Follow the road for about another 10 miles to the signed locations.
□ 4 trailer spaces
□ pit toilet
□ one table and grill
□ no fee
□ no garbage cans (pack in-pack out)
□ easy access off Road #152
□ big game hunting
□ nearby hiking
2.2.12.3 Cabinet District Trail Guide
|Trail Name |Trail # |Length |Legal |Difficulty |Elevation Change |
|CC Divide | 7 |13.9 |T22 R32 SEC17 |M | 500 ft |
|Upper Sims Cr. |293 |2 |T25 R30 SEC14 |E | 500 ft |
|Cabinet Divide* |360.2 |8.2 |T25 R31 SEC2 |E | 300 ft |
|St. Paul Lake* |646 |3.9 |T27 R32 SEC3 |M |1700 ft |
|Emma Creek |725 |6.6 |T22 R31 SEC4 |M |2200 ft |
|Dixie Ridge |731 |3.1 |T22 R32 SEC28 |M |1800 ft |
|Emma Peak/Cub Creek |734 |3 |T22 R32 SEC24 |E | 500 ft |
|Reader Gulch |749 |2.4 |T23 R31 SEC17 |M |1200 ft |
|Grays Gulch |756 |2.2 |T23 R31 SEC18 |M |1400 ft |
|Chute Gulch |761 |0.5 |T23 R32 SEC20 |E | 500 ft |
|Black Peak |763 |12.8 |T24 R32 SEC24 |M |2000 ft |
|White Pine Ridge |766 |0.3 |T23 R32 SEC11 |E | 300 ft |
|Granite Creek |772 |3.4 |T23 R32 SECC4 |M |2400 ft |
|Trout Creek NRT |774 |22.2 |T23 R33 SEC25 |M |2500 ft |
|Trout Ridge |775 |5.0 | | | |
|Attlebury |779 |4.2 |T23 R33 SEC14 |M |2200 ft |
|Robin Run |784 |1.3 |T24 R32 SEC25 |E | 300 ft |
|Minton Pass |785 |2.1 |T24 R32 SEC21 |M |1000 ft |
|W. Fk Trout Creek |795 |3.8 |T24 R33 SEC28 |M |1400 ft |
|Sorrel Gulch |799 |4.3 |T24 R33 SEC24 |M |2200 ft |
|Kismet Creek |811 |3.3 |T25 R32 SEC20 |M |2000 ft |
|W. Fk Cataract |842 |3.9 |T24 R30 SEC16 |D |3600 ft |
|Water Hill |845.1 |12.9 |T24 R30 SEC23 |D |3600 ft |
|Cataract Creek |847 |7.48.1 |T24 R30 SEC8 |D |2500 ft |
|Grouse Ridge |848 |1.5 |T24 R30 SEC24 |M | 300 ft |
|Grouse Creek |852 |5.1 |T24 R30 SEC2 |D |1500 ft |
|Bear Creek |855 |4.3 |T24 R29 SEC7 |M |2600 ft |
|Elk Mountain |861 |3.4 |T24 R30 SEC4 |E |2000 ft |
|Moose Peak |877 |3.3 |T24 R29 SEC4 |M |2400 ft |
|Spring Creek |878 |4.2 |725 R29 SEC33 |M |2200 ft |
|Sims Creek |881 |0.3 | | | |
|Elk Lake |882 |1.0 | | | |
|W. Fk Canon Cr. |892 |5 |T24 R31 SEC6 |M |2000 ft |
|Roe Gulch |894 |3.4 |T24 R31 SEC1 |M |3000 ft |
|20 Odd Peak |898 |5.1 |T25 R31 SEC33 |D |3400 ft |
|Canyon Peak |903 |3.7 |T25 R31 SEC24 |E | 100 ft |
|Swamp Creek* |912 | 12.9 |T25 R31 SEC17 |M |3400 ft |
|Buck Lake |912A |0.38 | | | |
|Goat Ridge |921 |3.3 |T26 R31 SEC21 |E | 500 ft |
|Bear Paw |923 |2.1 |T26 R32 SEC31 |D |3000 ft |
|Wanless Lake* |924 |9 |T26 R31 SEC31 |M |3000 ft |
|Engle Peak* |926.1 |3.3 |T26 R31 SEC30 |M |2500 ft |
|Engle Lake* |926.2 |0.6 |T26 R31 SEC18 |M | 400 ft |
|Engle Peak* |932 |3.7 |T26 R32 SEC13 |M |1700 ft |
|Rock Lake* |935 |4.1 |T26 R32 SEC2 |M |1600 ft |
|Devils Club* |966 |4.2 |T28 R32 SEC34 |M |3000 ft |
|Berray Mountain |967 |5.3 |T27 R33 SEC12 |D |3400ft |
|N. Fk Bull River* |972 |3.7 |T28 R33 SEC1 |M |1800 ft |
|M. Fk Bull River* |978 |5.7 |T28 R33 SEC11 |M |2700 ft |
|Bighorn Manway |980 |1.5 |T28 R32 SEC5 |D |2000 ft |
|Dad's Peak* |987 |2.3 |T28 R32 SEC33 |D |1900 ft |
|Moran Basin* |993 |2.1 |T27 R32 SEC16 |M |1000 ft |
|Blacktail Creek |997 |2.2 |T27 R33 SEC31 |M |1400 ft. |
|Big Eddy |998 |2.6 |T27 R34 SEC25 |M |3900 ft. |
|Historic Big Eddy Trail |999 |2.4 | | | |
|Star Gulch |1016 |5.5 |T27 R33 SEC5 |M |3700 ft. |
|Hamilton Gulch |1019 |2.9 |T28 R33 SEC32 |M |2500 ft. |
|Dry Creek |1020 |1.4 |T28 R33 SEC29 |E | 500 ft. |
|West Fork Dry Creek |1021 |7.2 | | | |
|Berry Mt. West |1028 |1.6 |T28 R33 SEC35 |M | 900 ft |
|Napoleon Gulch |1035 |3 |T27 R33 SEC17 |M |2400 ft |
|Pillik Ridge |1036 | 10.8 |T27 R33 SEC12 |D |3600 ft |
|Loveland Peak |1070 |3.4 |T26 R33 SEC29 |M | 300 ft |
|Rice Draw |1071 |2.8 |T26 R34 SEC23 |M |2500 ft |
|Smeads Bench |1077 |2.5 |T26 R33 SEC17 |M |2400 ft |
|Skeleton Creek |1078 |2.4 |T26 R33 SEC31 |M |2400 ft |
|Stevens Ridge |1083 |7.5 |T25 R33 SEC13 |E | 300 ft |
|S. Fk. Pilgrim Creek |1084 |2.6 |T25 R33 SEC17 |M |2900 ft |
|Huckleberry Mt. |1095 |3.9 |T25 R33 SEC1 |M |2500 ft |
|Stevens Creek |1099 |4.7 |T25 R33 SEC13 |M |2100 ft |
*Indicates all or a portion of the trail is in the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness. All Township directions are northerly and range designations are westerly. Trail difficulty is rated as follows: E = easiest, M=more difficult, and D=most difficult. The elevation change is from the lowest to the highest point on the trail.
2.2.12.4 Cabinet Ranger District Lookout/Guard Station Rental Program
Fire Lookout Rentals
□ reservations taken by phone beginning in January
□ call one week in advance of stay for weather, road and fire conditions
□ lookouts are accessible about the first of July
□ closed for the winter by mid-to-late October
□ guard station open year round
□ non-refundable, advanced payment fee
□ 18 years or older
□ good for one to seven days
□ maximum of six people
□ bring personal items; such as, bedding, food, water, flashlight, candles, matches, toilet paper, extra warm clothing, first aid kit, cooking utensils, dishes, camera and binoculars
Gem Peak
□ USFS Road 151 to 2205
□ elevation 6,092 feet and stands on a 30 foot tower
□ view of the Clark Fork River and the Noxon, Montana, area
□ measures 15' x 15' with a 36-inch catwalk around the cabin
□ one single bed with mattress
□ accommodates up to six people
□ wood stove, for heating, table and chair and an outhouse.
□ road leads directly to it
□ no modern conveniences such as electricity or running water
□ bring all necessary camping supplies
□ firewood is stored at the base of the tower; however, the supply is unpredictable
□ not recommended for children because of tower height
Sex Peak
□ USFS Road 152 to 2222
□ elevation of 5,798 feet
□ view of the Clark Fork Valley and surrounding area, including two other lookouts
□ measures 14' x 14' with a 34-inch catwalk around the cabin
□ two single beds with mattresses
□ accommodates up to six people
□ wood stove for heating, a table and stool and an outhouse
□ firewood is stored in the basement, but the supply is unpredictable.
□ road leads directly to it
□ no modern conveniences such as electricity or running water
□ bring all the necessary supplies for cooking, sleeping, and lighting
Minton Peak
□ USFS Road 322
□ elevation of 5,351 feet
□ view of the Clark Fork Valley, the Bitterroot Mountains to the west and the Cabinet Mountains to the east
□ measures 14’ by 14’ with a catwalk around the cabin
□ two single beds with mattress
□ accommodates up to six people
□ wood stove for heating, a table and chairs
□ vault toilet
□ campfire ring
□ firewood is stored below
□ road leads directly to it
□ no modern conveniences such as electricity or running water
□ bring all necessary supplies for cooking, sleeping and lighting.
Bull River Guard Station
□ available year round
□ located up the East Fork of Bull River, USFS Road 407 to 2701
□ two story, 700 sq. ft. cabin built in 1908
□ three full and two single beds with mattresses
□ accommodates up to eight people
□ features kitchen table and chairs, hutch, electric refrigerator and electric range
□ forced air electric furnace
□ vault toilet
□ campfire ring
□ limited firewood
□ full vehicle access depends on weather conditions, plowed within 1 mile during winter months
□ bring necessary supplies for cooking and sleeping
2.2.12.5 Cabinet Mountain Wilderness
Wilderness areas in the Northern Region (North Idaho and Montana) encompass close to 5 million acres of rugged and beautiful mountain country. They are devoted to recreational, scenic, scientific, educational, conservation, and historic purposes. These include the Absaroka-Beartooth, Anaconda-Pintler, Bob Marshall, Cabinet Mountains, Gates of the Mountains, Gospel Hump, Great Bear, Hells Canyon, Mission Mountains, Rattlesnake, River of No Return, Scapegoat, Selway-Bitterroot, and Welcome Creek Wilderness.
This wilderness is located in northwestern Montana approximately 15 miles southwest of Libby, Montana. This area contains some of the most beautiful sub-alpine scenery in western Montana. Elevations range from a low of 3,000 feet to 8,738 feet atop Snowshoe Peak.
Variety best describes the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness—ranging from the high, rocky peaks often snowcapped year-round, to groves of huge cedars in the canopied valleys. Hidden in the peaks and ridges are scores of deep blue lakes, feeding clear, cold streams that tumble to moose country below.
The list of resident animals is extensive and their homes varied—from the high rocks of the mountain goat, mountain sheep, pika and golden eagle, to the lower slopes and brushy canyon bottoms of the beaver, woodrat, and beautiful Western Tanager. Other animals include wolverines, deer, elk, and moose. Cutthroat, rainbow, and brook trout have been introduced and are now found in many lakes, streams and beaver ponds.
The wide range of ecosystems has created a great diversity of plants. You can find the giant Western Red Cedar and prickly Devils Club in moist, lower valleys, mid-slopes produce Douglas Fir and huckleberries, and on the windswept ridges are the gnarled Whitebark Pine and stunted heath. Wildflowers scent the mountain air. Fall usually arrives in September and with it a wonderful assortment of Mountain Maple scarlets, Mountain Ash reds, Alder browns, and the Larch golden yellows.
Most trails are marked at major intersections, some form loops, and many offer panoramic views. Others end at lakes in beautiful alpine settings. Major highways in the area include U.S. Highway No. 2 on the north and east sides, and Montana State Highway No. 56 on the west. Trail difficulty varies from easy stream bottoms, to the ups and downs of major ridges, to steep switchbacks.
2.2.13 County Wide School Trust Lands
Montana State law requires the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) to manage state school trust land in a manner that produces revenue to help support our states public schools. Legally accessible state lands that are not closed or restricted are open to anyone possessing a valid Recreational Use License. Generally, state land includes, but is not limited to, sections 16 and 36 of each township and is colored light blue on most ownership and access maps produced by the USDA Forest Service (USFS) or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Your local DNRC office can also provide information on the location of state land.
Additional information is available online at dnrc.state.mt.us/trust/tlmdhome.
SECTION 3
LOCATION OF ALL COUNTY PARK LAND
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Park pages will be sent separately.
SECTION 4
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS GUIDELINES
4.1 INTRODUCTION
This section of the Park Master Plan discusses recommendations for county owned property appropriate for parks, recreation facilities, open space and trail systems and procedures for maintaining these facilities.
The recommendations coincide with the County Park Board mission statement, established by-laws and the results of the 2002 Sanders County Recreation Needs Survey (02/05/02). When possible, Sanders County will consider partnering with other entities to offer recreation opportunities and share development, operations and maintenance costs. Plan recommendations also seek to maximize the existing budget by developing areas that require limited or no regular maintenance when appropriate.
4.2 COUNTY PARKLAND CATEGORIES
□ Open/ Green Space
□ Semi Developed Areas
□ Highly Developed Areas
□ Trails / Pathways
□ Income Generating Lands
4.2.1 General Site Requirements
The following are required for all semi-developed and highly developed recreation sites.
□ Appropriate safety features; e.g. fencing, lighting
□ Meet applicable building codes
□ Conform to ADA specifications
□ Access for emergency vehicles
□ Appropriate signage: interpretive and informative
□ Appropriate restroom facilities
□ Appropriate parking space
□ Vandalism resistant facilities and equipment
4.2.2 Open / Green Space
Open / Green Space are areas of county park land that have not yet been developed or areas that will be preserved in their current state. Open / Green spaces may have parking areas associated with them but are otherwise undeveloped.
4.2.3 Semi Developed Areas
Semi Developed Areas include county parklands that provide limited visitor services. These areas can have a parking lot, picnic area, view area, primitive boat ramp, nature trail or other low maintenance facility.
4.2.4 Highly Developed Areas
Highly Developed Areas can include developments such as ball fields or courts, picnic shelters, interpretive displays, skateboard areas etc. Typically these areas will have restrooms, electricity, defined parking and require regular maintenance and upkeep.
4.2.5 Trails / Pathways
Trails / Pathways can include exercise trails that have fitness stations and trails that have a destination or connect 2 facilities. These areas also may include parking lots that act as trailheads for snowmobile, water or hiking / biking trails.
4.2.6 Income Generating Lands
Some county parkland is not appropriate for regular public recreation due to the location, condition or accessibility. The lands that cannot or should not be used for public recreation can be used to generate income that will support the other county recreation sites. Lands can generate income in the following ways:
□ Sale of the property (per Sander County's property sale protocol—unsafe, doesn’t serve county or poor condition)
□ Resource extraction (timber sales, hay cutting, gravel removal, etc.)
□ Lease or rent (grazing or other)
4.3 PARK / RECREATION AREA DEVELOPMENT
Individual evaluation of each parcel of county parkland is ongoing. Specific recommendations for development of these parcels are included in the plan but may be modified to meet changing needs. A process for the development of county parkland has been created to direct Park Board efforts.
Development of county parkland will be guided by:
□ County Park Board mission statement
□ County Park Board by-laws
□ Results From the 2002 Sanders County Recreation Needs Survey (02/05/02).
□ Public input will be solicited while development plans are in the draft stage for Highly Developed Areas.
The Park board has the ability to make minor improvements to all areas without public input. Minor improvements are defined as improvements costing less than $5,000 and may involve donated time and / or materials. This flexibility is needed to allow the Park Board to react quickly when opportunities to make improvements at a saving are available or when minor improvements are needed for safety or convenience. Plan recommendations will also seek to maximize the existing budget by developing areas that require limited or no regular maintenance when appropriate.
4.3.1 Mission Statement
"The Park Board will oversee and manage county parklands, actively promote opportunities for recreation and provide universal accessibility."
To this end, the Park Board will manage the lands in such a way that they remain open and in good order for use by future generations. The Board will provide recreational facilities found to be desirable by the county residents and promote or make available the use of those facilities. All newly constructed facilities will be built to be universally accessible and ADA compliant.
4.3.2 By-Laws
The Sanders County Park Board By-Laws outline the power, duties, responsibility, membership requirements, officer duties and terms, meeting and voting protocol and code of ethics. The By-Laws are attached in Appendix B of this document.
These by-laws include provisions for making rules to protect the land, resources and facilities as well as outlining appropriate uses of the land. Rules can also be created to protect wildlife that uses the county parkland.
The by-laws allow the Park Board to enter into contracts for the construction and / or maintenance of facilities. Agreements can also be made with other government agencies or organizations for the purposes of cooperatively developing or maintaining a recreation facility.
4.3.3 Sanders County Recreation Needs Survey
The February 5, 2002, Recreation Survey (Appendix C) revealed several trends in terms of the desired recreation needs of county residents. The following is a list of message points that can be taken from the recreation survey:
□ Sanders County residents believe there is a lack of highly developed recreation sites.
□ The top 3 recreation activities county residents currently participate in are:
1. Wildlife viewing
2. Walking/jogging
3. Picnicking
□ Youth activities were the most common theme of activities that need to be expanded (playgrounds, skate parks, etc.)
□ Trail facilities that need to be expanded include:
1. Snowmobile
2. Day hiking
3. Horseback riding
4. ATV
4.3.4 Public Input
Public input will be solicited for projects while they are in the draft or concept stage. The public can be made aware of the plans for development via the newspapers in the county and / or public meetings. Public comment can come in the form of written correspondence to the Park Board or verbal comment at a public meeting. The process for public comment includes publication of notice of comment period, publication of notice of public meeting, notification of adjacent land owners, and establishment of comment period closing date.
4.4 PARK OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE
Specific park plans outlining the day to day operations and maintenance needs will be created as new parks are planned for development. The park plan will be in place prior to the creation of the park to allow for accurate budgeting of maintenance and operations dollars.
The Park Board will look at opportunities to partner with other entities or use volunteer groups to help offset ongoing maintenance costs. The Board will also explore development strategies that are proven to be lower maintenance.
4.5 FUNDING SOURCES
The board is mostly funded through the major subdivision process, payment in lieu of providing parkland, 76-3-503(h) MCA.
The Park Board will use existing funds as needed and allowed and seek to maximize those dollars by searching for matching grant dollars when possible. The Park Board will also seek to partner with other recreation providers (Forest Service, Cities, Utility Companies, etc.) to create reaction opportunities managed through cost share agreements.
Other funding source will be evaluated over time.
4.6 PERMITTING/RESERVATIONS AT PARK FACILITIES
The Park board will implement a permitting/reservation process for developed park facilities as the need arises. This permit process will be modeled after other public recreational use permits such as the State of Forest Service. This will allow the Park board to recoop the cost of trash pickup, cleaning and other impacts of organized events at county park facilities.
4.7 CHANGES TO MASTER PLAN
Additional changes of minimal nature such as edits, additions of recreation sites or opportunities, new county data can be done without public review. Full review will be completed every 10 years.
APPENDIX A
PARK BOARD GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
1. Manage existing recreation resource needs.
• Complete the Periodically undertake a survey of county parklands in order to legally pursue exchange, sale or purchase of land.
• Parks should provide opportunities and experiences that may be unavailable from either private or other publicly owned lands. County facilities may complement existing recreation facilities.
• Establish process for implementing projects, with guidelines and standards for facilities and siting criteria
1. Establish policies for hours of use, alcoholic beverages, camping, etc.
2. Establish policies for special events—determine if a permit would be needed.
3. Make maintenance of each park project part of the plan, to help assure that budget, equipment and expertise will be available to prevent its deterioration - this may be an opportunity for volunteer or corporate sponsorship of a park.
• Post signs at all parks with hours of use, permitted uses and any prohibitions.
• Provide adequate parking space for each recreation facility.
• Develop a program of coordinated volunteers to help maintain park facilities, one example would be the method used in "Adopt a Highway."
• Improve existing recreation facilities as needed, by making necessary repairs and modifications.
2. Provide adequate and safe public access.
• Provide access and facilities whenever possible to meet the requirements of ADA.
• Maintain visibility at all facilities by proper landscaping, etc. to promote safety and security. Maintain adequate access for emergency vehicles.
• Design parks in coordination with walking trails and bicycle trails when possible to promote safety for those using the parks, particularly children.
3. Coordinate recreation planning needs and provide compatible recreation opportunities.
• Establish partnerships and cooperative relationships with other park planners (local organizations, agencies). Establish roles and responsibilities inherent in each partnership
• Determine roles and responsibilities for recreation management for each of the member agencies.
• Develop good communication and coordination process among park planners.
• Determine the condition and extent of existing lands, facilities, and programs available through the County, Cities of Thompson Falls, Plains and Hot Springs, school districts, Forest Service, Avista and Montana Power Northwestern Energy.
• Use revenues efficiently to facilitate the needs and goals identified as priorities for the residents - utilize community volunteer labor whenever possible to save expense and improve residents' pride of ownership in the project.
4. Preserve recreation resources.
• Determine the best use of the land and resources available.
• Control weeds and maintain timber and vegetation in a healthy condition to prevent wildfires.
• Develop schedule and priority for new development or improvement projects throughout district.
• Retain or acquire lands with river, lake or creek access if resident survey shows need.
• All park development or improvement projects should take precautions to protect any archaeological resources identified with the project.
• Provide environmental education opportunities in the district to foster a better understanding and stewardship of natural and man-made resources.
• Set aside appropriate open space lands to meet potential future goals and objectives in the district.
• All parks development or improvement projects should use techniques and materials that will maintain the environmental integrity of the land - also using recycled products wherever possible.
• Lessen impacts to neighboring properties when planning layout of park developments and types of allowable uses for the park, such as shielding yard lights, establishing hours of use reasonable for the neighborhood, designing the traffic flow, etc
5. Manage future recreation resource needs.
• Plan for and establish adequate funding to help implement identified future recreation related projects and programs.
• Determine the recreation needs and desires of the residents of the county.
• Provide a process for introducing new recreational needs.
• Develop standards and criteria for trails construction-provide options for trails to be developed.
APPENDIX B
PARK BOARD BY-LAWS
Powers, Duties, and Responsibilities
The Board has the power, duty and responsibility to:
• Guide development and direction for Sanders County Parks.
• Make rules necessary or convenient to protect and promote the improvement of land and facilities under the care and control of the board and for the protection of birds and animals inhabiting or frequenting land and facilities in parks and public places;
• Make rules for the use of land and facilities by the public;
• Provide penalties for the violation of the rules;
• Make all contracts necessary or convenient for carrying out any and all of the powers conferred and duties enjoined upon said board by this part. All contracts made by said board shall be in the name of the county, shall be reviewed by the County Attorney and Board of County Commissioners and shall be signed by the President Chairman or, in his absence, by the Vice-President Chairperson of said board, or upon approval by a majority of the members of the Board at a regular meeting of the board at which a quorum is in attendance and voting and with due notice and report being made to the Board of County Commissioners. Such contracts may must be signed by the chairman of the Board of County Commissioners and attested by the county Clerk and Recorder. No order or resolution authorizing the making of any contract shall be passed or adopted except by a yea and nay vote, which vote shall be recorded in full in the minutes of the Secretary. The Board shall have no power to incur liability on behalf of the county in excess of money on hand or in taxes actually levied for the park fund.
• Public input will be solicited for projects while they are in draft or concept stage. (see Section 4.3)
• The Board may make minor expenditures for any area without public input. Minor expenditures are defined as those less than $5,000. (see Section 4.3)
• Agreements may be made with other governmental agencies or organizations for the purposes of cooperatively developing or maintaining a recreation facility. (see Section 4.3.2)
• The Board will seek to partner with other recreation providers, e.g. Forest Service, Utility Companies, etc., to create recreation opportunities managed through cost share agreements. (see Section 4.5)
• Board managed land that cannot or should not be used for public recreation can be used to generate income that will support other county recreation sites. Income may be generated through sale, resource extraction, lease or rent of land. (see Section 4.2.6)
Membership
The County Park Board serves at the pleasure of the Board of County Commissioners.
The County Park Board shall consist of not less than seven (7) five (5) members appointed by the Board of County Commissioners.
Any appointee may be recommended to the Board of County Commissioners to be removed from office by a majority vote of the appointed board members.
Any appointee who is absent for three consecutive meetings or unexcused for one-third of the meetings in the calendar year beginning August 1, 2000 shall be removed from the County Park Board by the Board of County Commissioners.
Resignations shall be in writing and delivered to the Chairman of the Board.
Vacancies occurring in the Board shall be filled within thirty days in a timely manner and shall be appointed by the Board of County Commissioners from persons residing within Sanders County. An appointee shall serve the unexpired term of the vacant seat.
Officers and Duties
The Board shall elect from its members a Chairperson, and a Vice Chairperson, and a Secretary at its first regular meeting following the Board appointment August meeting.
The Chairperson shall preside at all meetings and shall perform all other duties as may be prescribed in these By-laws or by Board action.
The Vice Chairperson shall act as Chairperson in the Chairperson's absence or disability.
The Secretary County Advisor shall keep and maintain the records and reports of the Board.
The term of the officers shall be for a period of one (1) year.
The Board shall have the power to remove an officer from his/her duties upon an affirmative vote of the Board.
Terms
The terms of the members shall be two (2) years, except that the terms of the first members appointed shall be fixed by the rule of the governing body for one (1), two (2), or three (3) years in order that a minimum number of terms shall expire in any year.
Meetings
The County Park Board meets at least once per, month, regular meetings are scheduled monthly on the first Tuesday 7:OO p.m. in the County Courthouse in Thompson Falls, MT unless otherwise posted for an alternate community.
Special meetings may be called by the Chairman or by two (2) members upon written request to the Chairman.
Voting
A majority of members constitutes a quorum and no recommendation of the Park Board is valid unless authorized by a majority of members of the Board at a regular or properly called special meeting to approve any business.
Each member has one vote on each issue. Vote by proxy shall not be allowed
All voting on policy issues, including by-laws, shall be placed on the agenda and voted on at the next scheduled meetings.
Committees
The President shall appoint committees as are necessary for carrying out the work of the Board.
Administration
The County Park Board shall operate upon and within the authority of Montana Statutes Sections 7-1-201 through 76-3-621, MCA.
Rules
The Board shall govern all meetings with the regulations in Roberts Rules of Order, Revised.
Amendments
Any member of the Board may propose amendments to the By-Laws. A written copy of the proposed amendment shall be submitted to the President at least seven (7) days before the next regular meeting and sent to all. Board members.
Code of Ethics
The holding of a public office or employment is a public trust, created by the public's confidence in the integrity of public officers and employees.
No Board member or employee shall:
1. disclose or use confidential information acquired in the course of his/her duties to further substantially his personal economic interest;
2. accept a gift of substantial value or a substantial economic benefit tantamount to a gift;
3. acquire an interest in any business or undertaking which he/she has reason to believe may be directly and substantially affected to his/her economic benefit by official action to be taken by the Board;
4. within the months following the voluntary termination of his/her office or employment, obtain employment in which he/she will take direct advantage, unavailable to others, of matters with which he/she was directly involved during his/her term of employment or appointment; and,
5. not become interested in any contract made by the Board or be a purchaser at any sale made by him/her in his official capacity.
A member of the Board, having a financial or personal interest in any item of consideration by the Board, shall declare that he/she may be in conflict with the Board. The Board shall immediately consider such conflict of interest. In the event that a decision is reached that a conflict exists, that member must exclude himself/herself from consideration on the matter. In the event of financial conflict, the above provisions shall apply. In the event of other conflicts, such member may actively participate in the discussion of the matter as a member of the public but shall be disqualified from a vote upon the matter or Board discussion. All conflicts shall be entered into the minutes of the meeting
Order of Business
Unless otherwise determined by the Chairman, the order of business of the Board shall be:
1. call to order
2. roll call
3. reading of previous minutes and corrections
4. claims
5. communications
6. Board member reports
7. staff reports
8. business of previous meetings
9. new business
10. adjournment
Compensation
No member or officer shall receive compensation for his/her service to the Park Board. The Board may, by resolution, authorize the reimbursement of actual and necessary expenses.
Adoption
The amendments to the Bylaws were duly introduced before the Board on the ____day of _________________, 20_____, public comment was requested and the same were adopted on this the _____day of ________________, 20_____.
____________________________________________
Member
____________________________________________
Member
____________________________________________
Member
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Member
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Member
APPENDIX C
SANDERS COUNTY RECREATION SURVEY
_______________________________________________________________________
Examination of Recreation
Needs Among Residents
of Sanders County, Montana
Prepared by:
American Public Land Exchange Company
Prepared for:
Sanders County Park Board
February 5, 2002
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