Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on the following environmental assessments (EA). For more information, including how to submit comments, click on the link provided or visit fwp.mt.gov/public-notices.

Whitefish Ridge Partners Private Pond EA

A private landowner is proposing to stock a private pond on their property on Garland Lane near Whitefish. The landowner is seeking a permit to stock rainbow trout, westlope cutthroat trout and brown trout into the private pond.

Comment deadline: Feb. 8.

Newlan Creek Reservoir Fishing Access Site – Lease Agreement and Development EA

FWP is proposing a 25-year lease agreement at Newlan Creek Reservoir, located north of White Sulphur Springs, for the purpose of continued management of a fishing access site (FAS). The Newlan Creek Reservoir has been managed as a FAS under a lease agreement since 1997. With the current lease set to expire, FWP is proposing a 25-year lease agreement for continued FWP management of the site. Development of the FAS would need to follow the lease agreement to provide for operational efficiency, site stewardship, and to meet the desires of the lessor and visitors of the FAS.

The benefits of the proposed acquisition and development would include the following:

• Long-term public access to Newlan Creek Reservoir and the associated lands through the FAS designation.
• Improve the camping experience.
• Improve and restore natural resource conditions.
• Establish designated day-use areas.
• Alleviate congestion and improve safety at the boat ramp.
• Improve and update FWP’s signage.

If funds are approved for the project, the initial development would likely occur in 2026/2027.

Comment deadline: Feb. 12.