Skyland/Challenge area closed to snowmobiles

The Flathead National Forest announced Thursday afternoon, May 1, that effectively immediately, the Skyland/Challenge area was closed to snowmobiles and other over-snow vehicles for the rest of the 2014 season, which ends May 14.

“The purpose of this temporary special closure order is for the protection of a grizzly bear and possibly cubs emerging from a den in the area,” the Flathead Forest said in a press release. “The closure is in response to the terms and conditions of Forest Plan Amendment 24 in consultation the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.”

The issue arose after Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks biologist Mike Madel expressed concerns about illegal snowmobiling to bear managers at the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem subcommittee meeting last week in Hungry Horse.

Madel said snowmobilers were using groomed trails in the Flathead Forest’s Skyland Road area to access the closed areas in the Badger-Two Medicine region, and the activity could displace denning grizzly bears. He provided aerial photos of the snowmobile tracks.

Keith Hammer, the chairman of the Swan View Coalition, followed up by sending a letter to Flathead Forest supervisor Chip Weber, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Helena field supervisor Jodi Bush and Rocky Mountain District Ranger Mike Munoz demanding the Forest Service take action in this matter and close snowmobiling in the Skyland Road area.

Snowmobilers can still access the Lost Johnny Area, on the west side of the Hungry Horse Reservoir, as an alternative riding area, the Flathead Forest suggested. The Lost Johnny Area is open until May 31.

For more information, contact the Hungry Horse Ranger Station at 406-387-3800.