(Kalispell) – The seasonal closure of a large portion of the north shore of Flathead Lake between Bigfork and Somers began on March 1st.
This area is the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Waterfowl Production Area (WPA) that spans 7 miles closes annually to reduce human disturbances during the breeding, nesting, and brood-rearing period of nesting birds. This closure includes the open beaches along the shoreline of the WPA.
More than 200 bird species use the area and has been designated an essential habitat for bird populations.
Public access to the north shore remains open at Somers Beach State Park and Osprey View property along Holt Drive near Bigfork.
The closure will remain in effect from March 1st through July 15th.
