Roundup Record Tribune & Winnett Times -

FERGUS COUNTY, Mont. Throughout August, large-scale tree trimming may affect campsite availability at the James Kipp Recreation Area, part of the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument. Work will stop by Sept. 1, 2023, and may resume during the winter season when the campground is closed.

This Great American Outdoors Act-funded work will help address dead cottonwood trees and dead limbs that pose a safety risk to visitors at the James Kipp Recreation Area. Arborists expect to trim 338 trees and fell 41 trees. Only trees with a potential to fall onto areas of maintained infrastructure will be removed to maximize the availability of trees for wildlife habitat. Timing the work during this month will also ensure young birds have fledged and left their nests.

"We're really excited to be able to get this work done to improve visitor experiences at James Kipp Recreation Area," said Zane Fulbright, Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument manager. "Thanks to Great American Outdoor Act funding, this riverbank recreation gem will continue to serve the thousands of outdoors enthusiasts who frequent the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument."

Visitors can expect to see work happening across the entire campground, although confined to one area or loop at a time. Visitors can also expect some reduced access while areas are roped off for trimming. All roads will remain open during the trimming operations. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and remember that there are no reservations at Kipp Campground. No work will occur from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.

The Great American Outdoors Act was signed into law on August 4, 2020, providing major investments to address deferred maintenance needs, increase recreational access to our public lands, and conserve our lands and waters. The James Kipp Recreation Area Hazard Tree Removal project is one of many projects funded through this act in Montana. In August 2022, the BLM awarded a $125,375 contract to Advanced Tree Service LLC, a small business based in Saint Anthony, Idaho, to perform the work at James Kipp Recreation Area.

The James Kipp Recreation Area is located about 60 miles north of Lewistown, situated within a grove of cottonwood trees along the Upper Missouri River. It features a concrete boat launch, 34 camping sites for recreational vehicles/camper trailers, two tent camping areas, two day-use picnic areas, and eight concrete vault toilets. Yearly overnight visitation to the campground averages 5,500 people, with an additional average of 40,000 day-use visitors to the recreation area.

The Missouri Breaks Interpretive Center in Fort Benton can provide updates and information to those planning visits in the area by calling 406-622-4000. The center also offers maps and guides for purchase, plus videos about the monument. The center's hours of operations are from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.