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10/18/2024
“Missoula This Week” is reported and written by Katie Fairbanks. Send your Missoula news and tips to kfairbanks@montanafreepress.org.
City Staff Detail Effort to Address Extensive Tree Damage from July Storm
Missoula is preparing for its largest urban forestry initiative, addressing 6,000 tree hazards from the July windstorm. The 90-day project, estimated at $2 million, will start in November, according to Mayor Andrea Davis. “For most of the general public, we might think the storm is over, but it is not,” she stated.
The July 24 storm, with wind gusts of 80 to 100 mph, damaged many trees. The city’s forestry department noted climate change, aging trees, and maintenance challenges are worsened by the storm.
Over 5,800 trees have hazardous limbs needing removal, and 570 trees will be cut down, said Morgan Valliant, from the city’s ecosystem services division. Additionally, 500 hazards and 200 trees previously removed are not included in these figures. Private property trees are also excluded.
The urban forestry department, contractors, and volunteers assessed 30,000 trees across Missoula, said Valliant. A map highlighting trees requiring attention or removal will be available at missoulaparks.org/storm.
Damage is citywide, with open areas impacted significantly, noted Marie DuCharme, urban forestry specialist. Ben Carson, urban forestry manager, added that areas like Slant Streets were severely hit due to tree size and age.
The ongoing project, expected to begin in November, addresses critical storm issues, said Carson. “There’s going to be continued issues with some of the trees,” Carson noted, emphasizing safety restoration efforts.
Signs will inform residents 24 hours ahead of work so vehicles can be moved if necessary. The $2 million project adds to previous and ongoing work totaling $2 to $2.5 million, said Adriane Beck, Missoula County Emergency Management director. The annual forestry budget is $829,000, Mayor Davis noted.
Beck indicated storm-related costs are being submitted to FEMA for reimbursement. FEMA covers 75% of expenses, with city and county bearing the rest, potentially offset by volunteer efforts. The department also seeks hazard mitigation grant funds.
Replanting costs are not covered by storm funds, explained DuCharme, but plans will follow hazard removal. Improper planting caused many trees to fall, a problem to be addressed in replanting.
The storm offers a chance to enhance Missoula’s urban forest with climate resilience, said Valliant. The loss enables discussions on future-proofing the community and diversifying tree species.
Public Notice
The Missoula City Council will consider amending the urban camping law to ban camping in parks, as proposed by council members Bob Campbell and Sandra Vasecka. Many residents oppose park camping, as reported by the Missoulian.
Missoula Parks and Recreation’s open house on Oct. 22 will present findings and seek community input on its master plan. The event at the Missoula Public Library includes refreshments and activities for children.
5 Things to Know in Missoula
The Missoula Planning Board recommends approving a 97-lot subdivision in Moose Can Gully. Neighbors voiced traffic concerns, but the board follows city policy. The City Council will review it on Oct. 28.
Riverside Park improvements in Lolo include a new land section, thanks to a public-access easement. Work on trail enhancements began last week.
Missoula Public Library won the first-place Green Library Award, recognized for its sustainable design and community approach, per a press release. It’s the first U.S. library to receive this honor.
Remote inspections are aiding Missoula County’s re-roofing efforts after the July windstorm. Permits surged in August and September. Apply for inspections at missoula.co/roofinspection.
The upcoming Missoula Health and Wellness Fair offers free or low-cost healthcare access on Saturday at the University of Montana. Vaccines are available; bring ID and insurance if possible.
Might Be Fun
Free Cycles’ annual Tweed Ride is Oct. 19, featuring a leisurely, family-friendly four-mile ride. Riders in vintage attire meet at Free Cycles from 3:30 p.m. The event includes tea, treats, and a contest. Donations support the community bike shop.
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