FWP considers 106-acre purchase along Flathead Lake for new state park

(KPAX) SOMERS — In an effort to further promote conservation and public access on Flathead Lake, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is proposing to purchase 106 acres along the north shore for a new state park.

FWP spokesman Dillon Tabish said the Sliter family, who owns the undeveloped land east of Somers, approached park officials about purchasing their land. Tabish said the proposed site would be suitable for a variety of recreational offerings such as trails, hand-launch boat access, waterfowl viewing and more.

He said the acquisition would be partially funded by a pending Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. Tabish added that the proposed acquisition is a rare opportunity to bring more public access to Flathead Lake.

“It’s a neat opportunity because Flathead Lake is a very popular destination, one of the most popular destinations in Montana, and for being the largest natural freshwater lake in the west, it only has about 11% of its shoreline open to the public,” said Tabish.

Tabish said FWP is seeking public comment on the proposed site through Sept. 12.