Clark Fork Coalition Hosts Tour Of River Restoration Project

Onlookers got a peek Wednesday at the progress that's been made on the river restoration project at the old Milltown dam site.

The Clark Fork Coalition hosted a tour to show off the area, and talk about what's next.

The work is part of the largest super-fund complex in the western United States. It stretches from the Warm Springs Pond near Butte to just outside East Missoula, where the old Milltown Dam once stood.

Restoration crews have been hard at work in that area, and they're just about finished.

Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks is planning a state park there, with a trail that will eventually connect with other area trails.

"I think there's a lot of pent up interest in what's going on at Milltown. The restoration work is just now winding down, and park work is just beginning to ramp up,? said Fish Wildlife and Parks Planner Mike Kustudia. ?We're moving as quickly as we can. There's a lot of challenges to get beyond, but we're working on it."

Kustudia said they hope to break ground on the new park sometime this year.