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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

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Montana extends Clark Fork River closure due to fire

RIVERS -- Fishermen are being displaced from a popular stretch of the Clark Fork River as firefighters try to control a nearby wildfire.  The closure announced Wednesday has been extended today.  

Here's the latest from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks:

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is closing an additional stretch of the Clark Fork River due to the expansion of the West Mullan Fire.  The river is now closed from Big Eddy Fishing Access Site (FAS) to US Forest Service Slowey Campground. This eight mile stretch will remain closed for recreating as long as fire activities continue.  The river was previously closed from Big Eddy FAS downstream to Dry Creek FAS, a five mile stretch of river.  
            In addition, FWP is closing the Big Eddy FAS at the town of Superior and the Dry Creek FAS. These FAS’s are closed in the interest of public safety while fire activity persists in the area.  People accessing the river above Big Eddy FAS need to be aware that this site is not available for use. There is no established public boat take-out available below Forest Grove FAS, which is 12 miles upstream of Big Eddy FAS. 
The West Mullan Fire is changing rapidly, so river users are advised to learn of the most current conditions before visiting this section of the Clark Fork River.  We will keep you informed of the updates and additional details on fire and drought-related restrictions and closures on the FWP website home page at fwp.mt.gov


Rich Landers
Rich Landers joined The Spokesman-Review in 1977. He is the Outdoors editor for the Sports Department writing and photographing stories about hiking, hunting, fishing, boating, conservation, nature and wildlife and related topics.

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