High water closes part of Clark Fork River

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) on Friday issued an emergency closure for a portion of Noxon Reservoir bove Avista’s Noxon Rapids Dam. The closure, according to FWP, is “due to dangers from high water levels, fast-moving currents, and compromised safety infrastructures.”

FWP reported that the closure is from the mouth of Blacktail Creek downstream to Noxon Rapids, and that it was at the request of the Sanders County Sheriff’s Office and Avista. Heavy debris in the reservoir took out an emergency barrier near the dam.

The closure applies to all water-based recreation, including, but not limited to: wading, swimming, fishing, floating and boating. Signs closing the reservoir are posted and will be removed when the rule is no longer effective.

For more information on closures and restrictions visit fwp.mt.gov/news/restrictions/.