FWP Seeks Input on Stevensville Bridge Access Site Acquisition and Development

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is seeking public input on its proposal to accept a donation of approximately seven acres of land and review of development plans that would provide for access and improvements at a new Stevensville Bridge Fishing Access Site (FAS).

The site has long been a popular Bitterroot River access for floaters, anglers and others. With the donation of land from a private landowner, FWP would manage the site part of its existing FAS program.  The Capp Family, which currently owns the property, has offered an arguably generous land trade to allow the Town and FWP to take ownership and create a proper Fishing Access Site for community and tourism use.

The proposal also calls for FWP to develop the site to improve recreation facilities and access and to restore and protect the streambank.  Streambank protection would be possible through cooperation with the City of Stevensville. They would allow for some of the proposed parking to occur on their land.

Proposed developments include improved parking areas, a concrete latrine, fencing, gravel road access, a primitive camping area, trail connections, and new signs. The existing area where boaters have traditionally put boats in the river would continue to serve as the designated boat launch at the site.