USFS Warns of Danger on This River in Montana & Idaho

For most of us, the massive windstorm that hit Western Montana last summer Is just a memory.

But recreation managers on the Bitterroot National Forest say the damage left behind from the Class 2 hurricane-force winds means danger in the backcountry. Especially on the popular Selway River, in both Montana and Idaho.

They're warning everyone planning to float the river to use extreme caution as the float season gets underway.

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A Montana microburst

The storm that roared across the Bitterroot Mountains and over Missoula created extensive damage, destroying thousands of trees and causing millions in property damage. But that July 24th event also created a real mess in the backcountry.

BNF Recreation Manager Kelsea Dyer says many of the trees along the Selway Corridor went down, falling into the river itself and across riverside camp spots.

The problem is, because of the remoteness of the area, information is confirmed, but sketchy.

"The reports that we had gotten actually firsthand from one of our permitted floaters, who was directly in the center of this microburst," explains Dyer. "This massive microburst which hit the Moose Creek Ranger station pretty much head-on. And there was some pretty wild reports that came out from the folks that were volunteering out there at the station."

READ MORE: Why Missoula's thunderstorm caused danger on local rivers

How much damage is still on the Selway

Dyer says there are "lasting impacts", which could include considerable movement of fallen trees and other woody debris in the Selway corridor during spring runoff.

"It could cause hazards and could change even from one float party to the next," Dyer notes.

When in doubt, scout!

The Selway River is already a challenge, dropping an average of 28 feet per mile over its 47-mile length. So Dyer says the best approach is caution, especially using an experienced guide during high water. That involves getting out to scout ahead on corners and also being ready for hazard trees at campsites.

Questions or condition reports should be directed to the West Fork Ranger Station at (406) 821-3269.