Fee delayed for Holland Lake site

Flathead National Forest is delaying a day use fee at the Holland Lake Day Use Area.

Earlier this year the forest announced there would be a $5 fee charged at the area to be consistent with day use fees across the forest.

Concern over the fee was expressed by area residents and the delay will allow further discussion between the forest and the public.

There is a joint Swan Valley Community Council and Missoula County Commissioner meeting July 15 to provide the community an opportunity to ask questions and voice concerns about day use fees at Holland Lake. 

The public meeting will be from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Swan Valley Community Center in Condon.

The Holland Lake Day Use Area is among the campgrounds and recreation areas operated by the forest concessioner Barta Enterprises Inc., known locally as Flathead Valley Campgrounds.

There are two other changes that already went in to effect this year:

•  Campground fees will be charged per camping unit such as one RV or one vehicle combined with a tent, camper or trailer. A $5 fee will be charged for each additional vehicle.
•  The day use area at the Swan Lake Campground can no longer be reserved and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.