By Darlene Grove, Stevensville
The Stevensville Town Council has before them a proposal from the Capp Family, owners of the Fort Owen Ranch, to trade land in the River Park for a Fishing Access Site. It is imperative that all interested citizens of the community become aware of the implications of this trade and its impacts on all aspects of our community.
The proposal means to trade 8.5 acres of the north end of the park for 3.6 acres near the entrance, plus another 1.26 acres along the East Side Highway. The result would be land for a parking area near the present boat launching area. Yes, it would clear the problem of ownership along the river bank, so the site could be developed. But it would relinquish ownership of 8 acres of very valuable river front property with attributes coveted by members of the community.
The River Park was once a town dump. In past decades, the old open dumps around our local communities needed to be closed. The old dump was sealed and the Town was prepared to sell the property. Several members of the Stevensville Civic Club urged the Council to not sell the property, but hold it in trust for the community. They had the wisdom to give us open space near to town with river access. Very few towns have open public space so near a river.
The River Park has not only been used for a fishing access site, but is a community park. Many citizens cherish the north end of the park for its many attributes. The Park provides access to excellent riparian areas with old growth cottonwoods, and quiet natural areas to walk with friends, family and dogs. The old growth cottonwood habitat attracts many species of birds and other wildlife, and is designated an Important Birding Area which attracts people from all over the area and the state.
The Park is used for family activities, picnicking and teaching opportunities. School children have planted trees and shrubs, and volunteers have worked on clearing, repairing fences, rerouting trails, clearing debris and monitoring the area to avoid disturbance to the neighbors.
I strongly believe that we can have a better Fishing Access Site than proposed, and retain all the acreage of the park. We can have both and must not rush into this trade. This is a very important decision for the future of our community and we need to explore all possibilities and alternatives. Please attend the next Park Board meeting on November 14 at 6 p.m. and express your opinion.
A copy of the Capp proposal with maps, is available at the Town Hall. Call or email Stacy Bartlett, 777-5271, ext 2 or on the website.