RESCINDING: EAGLE CLOSURE AT MILL CREEK.

The Forest has determined that both of the golden eagle nests within the Mill Creek raptor closure area are inactive this year. The eagles are using another nest in the territory. As a result, the Forest is rescinding the Mill Creek raptor closure until 2/1/2020.

Mill Creek Canyon is a popular destination for hikers, horseback riders, and in the last several years has become very popular with rock climbers. The increased use has resulted in numerous impacts including parking and trash issues, trail erosion, and the visual impact of climbing gear left on cliffs. Forest officials want to remind climbers of their responsibility to regulate use and self-police their activities by following the “Leave No Trace” and “Pack it In, Pack it Out” principles. Copies of the “Leave No Trace Climbing” brochure are available at all Bitterroot National Forest offices and at trailhead bulletin boards. To learn more about these simple climbing tips and recommendations visit www.fs.usda.gov/bitterroot. Click on Recreation and Climbing. The area will be monitored for compliance. Climbers should also be aware that vandalism of bolts has been reported recently in the climbing area and they should pay close attention and inspect all bolt protection prior to use. For more information contact the Stevensville Ranger District at (406) 777-5461. ### USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender [Forest Service Shield] Tod McKay Public Affairs Officer Forest Service Bitterroot National Forest p: 406-363-7122 c: 406-531-1130 tgmckay@fs.fed.us 1801 N. First Hamilton, MT 59840 www.fs.usda.gov/bitterroot [http://wwwstatic.fs.usda.gov/images/email/usda-logo.png][Twitter Logo][Facebook Logo] Caring for the land and serving people