Shoreline restoration project begins April 13 at Salish Point
CSKT, City of Polson | Lake County Leader | UPDATED 1 month, 1 week AGO
The Tribes and City of Polson will start improvements on Salish Point, aimed at curbing erosion before the lake level begins to rise, on Monday, April 13. Here, two boys are poised to sample swimming possibilities last May. (Kristi Niemeyer/Leader)
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), in collaboration with the City of Polson, will begin a shoreline restoration project at Salish Point Park on Flathead Lake starting April 13.
According to a press release from CSKT, the project aims to address ongoing shoreline erosion observed since the original 2008 restoration of Salish Point. The project, estimated to take two or three weeks, implements a Dynamic Equilibrium Beach design to stabilize the shoreline, improve habitat, and enhance the long-term resilience of the site.
During construction, a portion of the Salish Point shoreline day-use area will be temporarily closed to the public. The boat launch and marina slips will remain open and accessible throughout the duration of the project.
According to CSKT fisheries biologist Barry Hansen, both CSKT and the City of Polson recognize that perch fishing opportunities are currently strong, and that many anglers are relying on Salish Point and Blue Bay as two of the few accessible boat launches due to current lake levels.
“The intent of this project is not to restrict public access, and every effort will be made to minimize disruptions to boat launching and angler use,” Hansen said.
Construction activities will involve dump trucks and heavy equipment in the area, and while some temporary delays or limited access may occur, crews will strive to maintain safe and reasonable access whenever possible.
“This work must be completed while lake levels are low to avoid contact with the water, which is critical for both environmental protection and project effectiveness,” Hansen said. “As a result, construction timing is limited and cannot be significantly delayed.”
CSKT and the City of Polson appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as these important improvements are completed to protect and sustain this popular community site.