Closure of Mount Jumbo's South Zone extended

MISSOULA, Mont. — Missoula Parks and Recreation is extending the winter wildlife closure of Mount Jumbo's South Zone.

The South Zone, which includes all areas south of the Saddle Road, was originally slated to reopen on Saturday.

After officials consulted with state wildlife biologists they determined the extension is necessary to protect about 100 elk and other wildlife.

"For elk and deer, the onset of spring is crucial for replenishing the physical reserves lost during winter. Ensuring adequate food before reopening the mountain is essential for their long-term protection. Respecting the closure also prevents elk from becoming habituated to humans and domestic dogs," said FWP Wildlife Biologist Ryan Klimstra in a press release.

Further updates on reopening will be posted here next week.

Mount Jumbo's North Zone remains closed until May 1 or later, but the "L" Trail and US West Road stay open year-round.

Missoula Parks and Recreation sent out the following:

Mount Jumbo South Zone winter closure extended Jumbo’s “L” Trail and the US West Road remain open

In consultation with state wildlife biologists, Parks and Recreation has extended the winter wildlife closure on Mount Jumbo's South Zone beyond the originally scheduled reopening date of March 15. The extension helps protect approximately 100 elk and other wildlife that use Mount Jumbo as their winter range.

Reopening updates will be posted at www.missoulaparks.org the week of March 17. The South Zone includes all areas south of the Saddle Road.

Most of Mount Jumbo is closed each year starting December 1 to protect wintering wildlife. The closure provides critical habitat for the Jumbo elk herd and other animals that rely on the lower elevations of Mount Jumbo for food and cover during the winter and early spring. Mount Jumbo's North Zone (north of the Saddle Road) remains closed until May 1 or later. The "L" Trail and US West Road remain open year-round, but dog owners must keep their dogs leashed.

FWP Wildlife Biologist Ryan Klimstra explains, "For elk and deer, the onset of spring is crucial for replenishing the physical reserves lost during winter. Ensuring adequate food before reopening the mountain is essential for their long-term protection. Respecting the closure also prevents elk from becoming habituated to humans and domestic dogs."

Parks and Recreation staff monitor elk presence throughout the winter with help from the Elk Spotters Program and begin tracking vegetation growth in early March. Resource managers must balance the needs of the elk, the status of vegetation, and weather forecasts to determine an appropriate reopening date. Current monitoring shows that vegetation in the North Zone has not yet reached the levels needed to sustain the herd.

Conservation Lands Manager Jeff Gicklhorn considers the Jumbo elk herd a unique natural and cultural resource for Missoula. "Not many cities in the country have the privilege of having a wild elk population visible from their downtown. By working together, we can protect and sustain this precious resource for future generations."

The City of Missoula thanks residents for their cooperation in protecting Mount Jumbo's unique natural resources. To report closure violations, please call 911. For more information, call 721- PARK (7275) or visit www.missoulaparks.org for maps and details.