GNA Spotlight - Montana, May 2024
Authored by Gary Ellingson
The Westside Bypass Wildfire Resiliency Project covers approximately 4,866 acres of National Forest System lands and is located two miles northwest of Seeley Lake, MT. This entire project area falls within the wildland-urban interface of the Seeley-Swan Fire Plan, a component of the Missoula County Wildfire Protection Plan. Within the project area, there are about 678 acres of private lands, which includes a portion of the Seeley Lake Game Reserve, undeveloped parcels, as well as primary and secondary residences.
The project’s purpose was to reduce wildfire hazards and improve the landscape’s long-term health and resilience. Project planning was completed in collaboration with local partners, including the Southwestern Crown Collaborative (SWCC), the Clearwater Resource Council (CRC), and the Montana Department of Natural Resources (DNRC).
The Seeley Lake Ranger District and the Montana DNRC worked closely on a GNA Agreement, which enabled the agencies to integrate staff and expertise to accomplish fuels reduction on a portion of the project area through a 1,552-acre commercial timber sale prepared and administered by the DNRC. Commercial harvesting improved forest structure by opening the canopy and promoting fire-resistant tree species, such as western larch and ponderosa pine, and has created a mosaic forest with diverse age classes.
As of February 2024, the commercial harvest activity is complete across all 1,552 acres of harvest units with subsequent post-harvest activities, including temporary road deconstruction and various forest management practices, continuing through 2025. This strategic initiative underscores the commitment to proactive forest management, ensuring the long-term health and resilience of the landscape.
For more information, contact Gary Ellingson.