HAMILTON — The Bitterroot National Forest is warning boaters of damage to the Selway River corridor following the July 24, 2024, severe windstorm.
The storm caused extensive damage across portions of the Bitterroot and Nez Perce-Clearwater national forests.
Many of the trees within the Selway River corridor were damaged, which will impact recreationists' experience this season.
The U.S. Forest Service says there will be considerable movement of trees and other large woody debris within the river corridor during spring runoff, so boaters should take extra caution navigating the river and selecting camping locations.
The Selway River flows 47 miles through north-central Idaho within the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. From the Paradise launch site to the Race Creek take-out.
Between May 15 and July 31, a lottery permit system is in place to protect it from "excessive human impacts and maintain a quality Wilderness experience," a news release states.
Permits are not required outside of the control season.
Contact the West Fork Ranger Station at (406) 821-3269 for additional information.
