Commercial thinning in lodgepole, Douglas-fir and around aspen clones would be the primary harvest technique. The analysis area lies between Butte, Boulder, and Whitehall, Montana. It includes several tributaries to Boulder River. The project area encompasses approximately 69,000 acres. Potential issues identified are the effects of the proposal on watershed function, visual quality, fish and wildlife, noxious weeds, and roadless character.
Public participation is important to the analysis.
Part of the goal of public involvement is to identify additional issues and to refine the general, tentative issues identified above. People may visit with Forest Service and BLM officials at any time during the analysis and prior to the decision. During the scoping process, the Forest Service and BLM are seeking information and comments from Federal, State, and local agencies and other individuals or organizations who may be interested in or affected by the proposed action. The agencies invite written comments and suggestions on this action, particularly in terms of identification of issues and alternative development. Public involvement for the EA started in October 1998 with a scoping letter to interested parties and legal notice in the Montana Standard.