http://www.greatfallstribune.com/article/20090830/NEWS01/908300302/1002

Michigan is mentioned, but I'm not sure about any "backcountry strips" here.

ASW.

Uh, actually its the US FOREST SERVICE, as accurately noted in the article, that should be thanked for being more aviation friendly, NOT BLM. BLM is the outfit that tried to close all the Upper Missouri Breaks strips a couple years ago, and DID close that entire section of the Missouri River to seaplanes.

So, PLEASE, let's give credit where credit is due, and this is indeed good news, that's been in the works for a while. By next summer it ought to be useable.

MTV

Russian Flat was supposed to be open this year but the MPA and RAF ran a little short of money so the opening is being delayed until next year.

My utmost apologies, MTV.

ASW.

mtv wrote:Uh, actually its the US FOREST SERVICE, as accurately noted in the article, that should be thanked for being more aviation friendly, NOT BLM. BLM is the outfit that tried to close all the Upper Missouri Breaks strips a couple years ago, and DID close that entire section of the Missouri River to seaplanes.

So, PLEASE, let's give credit where credit is due, and this is indeed good news, that's been in the works for a while. By next summer it ought to be useable.

MTV

Seaplane closures were NOT limited to the Missouri Breaks. ALL BLM lands were affected. A fellow named Steve Burak, of Emmett Idaho (and somewhere up in Alaska), played a very large role in getting that ill advised regulation rescinded nationally. He is another unsung hero that deserves kudos.

Kenny,

That may be, but the rulemaking following the public process on the establishment of the Upper Missouri Breaks National Monument specifically contains language that prohibits seaplane landings on the Missouri River.

Are you certain that this change in national policy actually trumps a final rulemaking? I doubt it, since that was based on specific monument and public input. Unfortunately.

MTV

mtv wrote:Kenny,

That may be, but the rulemaking following the public process on the establishment of the Upper Missouri Breaks National Monument specifically contains language that prohibits seaplane landings on the Missouri River.

Are you certain that this change in national policy actually trumps a final rulemaking? I doubt it, since that was based on specific monument and public input. Unfortunately.

MTV

MTV,

So far as I know, that is the case. If you want the on the ground info: [email protected]

You'll get it there. Patience, he is in Alaska right now and, given internet limitations, he cannot see Russia.