THREE FORKS — Sub-zero temperatures overnight followed by above-freezing temperatures during the day are the kind of conditions that can make for dangerous situations near Montana rivers.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) recently had to close some fishing access sites in Southwest Montana thanks to Mother Nature.
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"The thing about rivers this time of year is conditions can change so quickly. Especially when we have frequent freeze-thaw cycles that get some of the ice moving but then colder temperatures will cause it to stop. Then we'll see more flooding and so that really poses risks to visitors of these sites," FWP spokesman Morgan Jacobsen noted.
Jacobsen says FWP recognizes the importance of the sites and that's why every effort to re-open them or close only a portion of them.
This time of year a slip and fall on snow-covered ice, or a plunge into a hidden newly created river channel could be deadly. Safety remains a top priority for all the sites.
"So, that's the balance we're trying to strike is providing access to recreation opportunity where it's safe while still providing for public safety in areas where flooding is occurring and conditions can change quite quickly," Jacobsen said.
Check the FWP website for a look at all closures in Montana.
