The rock bar on the Flathead River near the Blankenship Bridge has become a popular place to camp…that’s become problematic because of rising water levels. At one point, the Flathead National Forest has to close the area because it was just too dangerous. Several vehicles became trapped on the bar when the water level rose, cutting them off from the mainland.
Neighbors have complained because of the trash left behind by campers. The Friends of the Flathead River, a non-profit group, lost their argument in front of Federal Judge Donald Molloy in Missoula. They argued that the Flathead National Forest was mismanaging the area by allowing people to drive up on the gravel bar and camp there. Judge Molloy also ruled that the section of the river is classified as recreational under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, and as such, the Forest Service does have some discretion in allowing public use.
Last week, the Flathead County Commissioners granted an encroachment permit, allowing the Forest Service to build a gate on the County right-of-way on the southwest side of the bridge.
Judge Molloy noted that a 2010 travel plan crafted by the Forest Service allows motorized travel 300 feet from an established road at Blankenship. That plan is under review and an updated plan for all three forks of the Flathead River should be completed this year.
