Comments sought on lookout project

Glacier National Park officials are seeking public comments on a proposed project to stabilize the Heavens Peak Lookout.

An environmental assessment is being prepared for the project to review all possible resource issues, with a goal of completing the assessment by spring 2011.

The historic lookout was built by conscientious objectors during World War II. Stabilization of the lookout is aimed at slowing down the accelerating deterioration of the structure so it can remain on the landscape as part of Glacier National Park’s cultural history.

The lookout is structurally sound, but the deteriorating roof and missing shutters threaten its long-term survival.

The proposed project would repair the roof, shutters and exposed exterior wood surfaces, paint the exterior and stabilize the masonry.

The Glacier National Park Fund would pay for the stabilization as one of its legacy projects in honor of the park’s centennial this year.

The Heavens Peak Lookout was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986 and embodies the National Park Service’s rustic design philosophy, having buildings that are “harmonious” with the landscape.

Comments and concerns on the proposed Heavens Peak Stabilization project should be submitted online by Monday, Aug. 16, to http://www.parkplanning.nps.gov/glac or mailed to: Superintendent, Glacier National Park, Heavens Peak Lookout EA, P.O. Box 128, West Glacier, MT 59936.

There will be another opportunity for the public to review and comment when the environmental assessment is completed.