Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public review and comment on its proposal to acquire 158 acres adjacent to the Fish Creek Wildlife Management Area west of Alberton in Mineral County. Spokeswoman Vivica Crowser said the proposed addition includes one half mile of Fish Creek:

"It would help protect this important habitat both in the stream and alongside in the riparian area," Crowser said. "Also, some upland habitat that's important for some sensitive species. Some of those fish species such as bull trout and westslope cutthroat. Also just great elk habitat and habitat for a variety of other wildlife."

Before the proposal is finalized, Crowser said FWP has some hoops it has to jump through first:

"The lands right now are owned by Five Valleys Land Trust with the intent that they would like to see them to go to public ownership," Crowser said. "If that were to happen, entities would come together to fund the $350,000 purchase. Right now, we're accepting comment through the seventh of November so people can come out, ask questions and submit comment. You can also go online to the FWP website at any time, review the proposal and submit your thoughts there."

A draft environmental assessment on the proposal can be found online at at the FWP website under “Public Notices.”

The hearing is set for Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the Alberton Community Center.

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