Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Region 1 officials announced May 21 that rising waters have prompted emergency closures of two fishing access sites on the Flathead River — Kokanee Bend, downstream from Columbia Falls, and the east side of the Old Steel Bridge, east of Kalispell.

Both sites are flooding and creating public safety concerns. Access requires crossing flood water to reach the designated river access points. These sites have been closed in the past due to flooding.

The Flathead River has flooded the road access area and boat ramp at Kokanee Bend. The accessible fishing pier at the Old Steel Bridge is partially under water.

Officials say closures and restrictions will continue until flood conditions subside. Additional FAS closures are possible as conditions change, and recreationists should look for barricades and signs to indicate closed sites.

FWP urges caution if venturing on or near rivers during high water. For updates, visit online at http://fwp.mt.gov and choose “restrictions and closures.”