Wildlife viewing area proposed at Reed’s Slough
A yellow-headed blackbird sings while perched on a cattail at Reed's Slough along North Somers Road. (Casey Kreider/Daily Inter Lake)
KALISPELL — Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking input on a proposed wildlife viewing area at Reed’s Slough near Somers.
FWP is working with landowners next to the slough to seek an easement on private land along North Somers Road for a new public viewing area. The proposed project includes acquiring an easement and developing a raised gravel parking area and raised trail to the viewing platform.
The viewing area would be within the existing 34-acre Danford Conservation Easement. The easement for accessing the site would be donated to FWP. The agency would pay for construction at an estimated cost of $25,000.
Reed’s Slough is a wetland area in the Lower Valley that is heavily used by numerous migratory bird species from spring through fall. The slough can be accessed via North Somers Road, and members of the public often park along the roadway, causing a traffic hazard.
The site would include an informational kiosk and signage, as well as permanent public-use binoculars. This viewing area would provide a venue for school groups and others to learn about the migratory waterfowl of Montana.
FWP will host a virtual informational meeting on June 21 at 6 p.m. to explain the proposed project and answer questions. The online meeting will be livestreamed on the FWP website via Zoom at https://fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/regions/region1.
FWP is seeking input on a draft environmental assessment that details the proposed project. The EA is available to view online at https://fwp.mt.gov/news/public-notices or at any FWP office. The deadline to comment is 5 p.m., July 5, 2022. Comments can be mailed to Jessy Coltrane, Montana FWP, 490 N. Meridian, Kalispell, MT 59901, or emailed to JColtrane@mt.gov.