This is a designated but undeveloped county park located along the Yellowstone River somewhat southeast of Shepherd. (Sec 12 T2N, R27E ) Access is gated and padlocked but walking access allowed. FWP would like to develop a fishing access site at the location. Local area residents have the usual NIMBY arguments against such a plan and are proposing a Park Maintenance District. PLAAI believes that the park / FAS should be developed and operated like any other fishing access site and not be encumbered by any local agreements. The site is important as it is the only site on the north side of the river for approximatley 100 miles to the east of Billings . It is strategically located for river search and rescue operations as well as for water truck operations in event of large scale prairie fires. Road access to the river access here would also allow handicapped fishing.

Nearby homeowners are proposed a Park Maintenance District (similar to an "RSID") for purposes of maintenance of the park under their ostensible control. The proposed annual budget is $1130 for brush control and garbage pick up. ( No other details or plan available at this time. However, we wonder how much of a viable park could be maintained for $1130 per year )

A hearing on the PMD was held on December 18, 2007 in the Yellowstone County Commissioners Board Room . At the hearing, the PMD was approved by a 2 to 1 vote with Commissioners Reno and Ostlund voting yea and Kennedy voting ney .


We believe this is a shortsighted decision not in the interests of the county as a whole. PLAAI has long advocated a FWP managed Fishing Access Site at the location. In this regard, FWP is proposing a state funded FAS complete with a parking area, fencing to stop ORV abuse, a boat ramp, and management by a part time staffer (10PM closing ) . Capital and operating funds are available for this site.