FAQs
Who will be responsible for managing the site?
Missoula County is leading the design and construction of the Sha Ron parking expansion project in close collaboration with the state Department of Transportation and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. FWP will manage and oversee operation of the site through an agreement with MDT.
What hours will it be open to the public and what regulations would apply?
Per FWP’s Public Use Regulations, the site will be open from sunrise to sunset unless otherwise posted, and camping will not be allowed. Reach out to FWP at 406-542-5500 if you have additional questions about their Public Use Regulations or other management practices they anticipate at this site.
What are the proposed locations of the toilets and bus stop?
The screened latrine is located on the south side of the parking area and the bus stop is located between the two entrances. See the portion of the plan below with specific locations circled in red.
Will there be a fence and signage around the parking lot to deter users from trespassing on nearby private property?
A fence is proposed around much of the site to guide users to trails and away from private property. Signage is anticipated to be like those used at other Fishing Access Sites to delineate public/private property boundaries, encourage desired recreationist behavior and prevent natural resource degradation. A paved shared use path will connect the parking lot with the existing Sha-Ron Fishing Access Site, and a smaller gravel and natural surface trail will access the river on the east end of the parking lot. Site design and signage will encourage use of both paths for river recreationists to access the river.
Are nearby property owners liable for people who do not stay on the trails and wander onto private property?
Under state law, property owners are not liable for a personal injury if the person is using the property owner’s land for recreational purposes. The Legislature has defined recreational purposes very broadly to include activities like swimming, boating, fishing and hiking. This restriction on liability protects property owners even if people don’t stay on the trail or easement.
Can the speed limit be lowered on Highway 200 near this parking lot?
The Montana Transportation Commission determines the speed limit on Highway 200 after receiving a speed study recommendation from the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT). MDT last conducted a speed study on this stretch of highway in 2019. There was no recommendation then to lower the speed limit; however, the construction of this parking lot may influence people's driving habits enough to provide data that may justify lowering the speed limit in the future. Missoula County has submitted a formal request to MDT in November 2022 that requested an updated speed study on Highway 200 between East Missoula and Tamarack/Juniper. A study will likely be completed in late2023/early 2024.
How does the County intend to keep people from parking on the highway?
If the parking on Highway 200 continues, the Missoula County commissioners can pass a resolution restricting parking along Highway 200 in that specific area. MDT, FWP, and Missoula County will monitor the parking in the area and respond accordingly.