FWP acquires Somers Beach property for future state park
Interim amenities proposed for public safety, sanitation, parking needs
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News from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
KALISPELL — This month Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks acquired the 106-acre Somers Beach
property on the northwest shore of Flathead Lake with plans to add it to Montana’s state park system. The previous owners, the Sliter family, permitted public access to the property for many years, and its designation as a state park will perpetuate public enjoyment and access into the future.
Since the site is suitable for a variety of recreational offerings and amenities, such as trails, hand-launch boat access, picnic tables, and more, FWP is working on a long-term vision and development plan for the park that will include extensive public involvement.
While that comprehensive process is expected to take several months, FWP is starting with an interim plan to address immediate needs for public safety, sanitation, and parking. The proposed amenities are outlined in a draft environmental assessment that is available online at: https://fwp.mt.gov/news/public-notices and open to public input through Nov. 6. A public meeting is scheduled for Oct. 21 at 6 p.m. through Zoom. The meeting information will be posted online at: https://fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/regions/region1.
Written comments can be mailed to: Somers Beach Acquisition EA; Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks; 490 N. Meridian Road; Kalispell, MT 59901 or sent by e-mail to: Stevie Burton at Stevie.Burton@mt.gov.
FWP asks the public to recreate responsibly at the property and follow all day-use rules – No camping or campfires; Leave No Trace; and Pack It In, Pack it Out etiquette – while also respecting neighboring private property.
The acquisition of the Somers Beach property marks an achievement many years in the making.
