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Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is pleased to announce the members of the newly formed Fish Creek Collaborative (FCC) citizen advisory group. The group is tasked with guiding the development of a plan for a multi-use trail system for the Fish Creek area in western Montana by providing input on development, management, and conservation priorities.
The Fish Creek area considered in the planning includes the state park, wildlife management area, fishing access sites, and other surrounding lands. This effort aims to ensure a balanced approach to recreation, conservation, and sustainable use.
Members of the collaborative represent diverse recreation interests and geographic perspectives pertinent to the Fish Creek area. Collectively, the group brings valuable experience in trail usage, stewardship, and a diversity of recreation types. Following a comprehensive selection process, the following individuals have been appointed to serve on the FCC.
FCC members:
Paige Boyer, Stevensville
Ken Brown, Missoula
Ben Deeble, Missoula
Jerry Hatcher, Saint Regis
John Kittelson, Missoula
Jim Merifield, Missoula
Hayley Newman, Missoula
John Stegmaier, Missoula
Sharon Sweeney, Huson
Jane Whetzel, Alberton
Advisory Panel Members:
The FCC Advisory Panel includes agency staff, government representatives, and subject matter experts who serve in an advisory capacity. Panel members provide specialized knowledge and guidance to the FCC members.
Amy Helena and Sierra Farmer, Montana DNRC Representatives
Christopher Gauger and Laura Johnson, U.S. Forest Service Representatives
Denley Loge, State Legislature Representative
Jody Loomis, State Parks and Recreation Board Representative
Willy Peck, Mineral County Representative
Throughout the planning process, the FCC will participate in a site visit to the Fish Creek area and host public workshops to engage with stakeholders. For more information about the Fish Creek Collaborative and updates on upcoming meetings, visit: fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/fish-creek
The FCC is part of FWP’s implementation of the Fish Creek Recreation Strategy, finalized in 2024, which aims to enhance recreational access while conserving wildlife habitat and natural resources. The strategy called for developing a site-level plan for a multi-use trail network serving both motorized and non-motorized users.
For more information on the FCC, contact:
Cody Kenyon, FWP
406-542-5533