POTOMAC - The Missoula Conservation District (MCD) brought knowledge, expertise and a listening ear to Potomac May 24. The meeting was one of many listening sessions held throughout Missoula County by the MCD to answer questions and clarify concerns by residents as well as help inform residents of MCD’s long range plan.
MCD representative Jen McBride explained the basics of conservation and the history of conservation beginning with the ‘Dustbowl’ that brought drought and agricultural issues to areas of the United States. The Federal government then began soil conservation and nationwide each state has created conservation districts.
Montana has 58 conservation districts; they are not all divided by county lines. Landowners formed the MCD in 1946 to preserve Missoula County’s natural resources and offers services to attain that.
Around Potomac and throughout the Blackfoot watershed, management practices have been implemented towards conservation in different ways and for different reasons. The MCD has completed projects around the Swan Valley as well.
Most MCD projects around Potomac involved cross fencing removal, fence repair and replanting. Upcoming conservation projects and events include low-stress livestock handling hosted by trainer Curt Pate and the Oxbow Cattle Company, Western Montana Grazing and Agriculture Conference and youth camps.
Potomac resident Bryon Edwards voiced a concern during the meeting. He asked about cutting timber on his property along the Blackfoot River.
Edwards wants to cut down trees and thin to prevent fire danger. Edwards is also an experienced kayaker and is concerned about trees falling into the water and causing problem areas where kayakers and water enthusiasts might get into an unsafe situation.
McBride said it would be good for Edwards to employ best management practices (BMP) and to explore the 310 Permits which can be site specific. BMPs are voluntary guidelines that outline the best way to carry out specific projects including in the woods, on rangeland or near waterways and riparian areas. 310 Permits are a resource which enforces Montana’s Natural Streambed and Land Preservation Act by ensuring that landowners carry out projects around perennial waterways without damaging the waterway.
Edwards may have other options depending on whether or not he is selling the timber once it is cut. McBride explained that permits are needed if the intention is to sell the timber but that Edwards should talk with the state forester.
Other resources offered by the MCD include equipment rentals, grant programs, sponsorships and outreach events. Meeting attendees were asked to fill out a survey which entered them into a drawing for prizes. The survey is also available online at missoulacd.org for those who did not attend the listening sessions.
For more information contact the Missoula Conservation District at 829-3395 or visit missoulacd.org
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