Road Closure in the Upper Coeur d'Alene River Drainage

Idaho Fish and Game and the U.S. Forest Service are beginning a joint project in the upper Coeur d'Alene River drainage to benefit fish populations. A culvert on Short Creek, which is at least a partial barrier to fish migrations, will be replaced with an open span bridge. Having a bridge over the creek will allow fish unimpeded access up and down Short Creek. Short Creek is a tributary to Teepee Creek at the upper end of the Coeur d'Alene River drainage. The work is being done in September to reduce potential effects to the stream and fish populations. Unfortunately, the reconstruction will require the temporary closure of road 812 for two weeks. Coeur d'Alene River Ranger District officials will close Forest Road 812, at Short Creek, from September 15 to about September 30 to ensure public safety during reconstruction. The closure is about 5.7 miles upstream from the old Magee Ranger Station. Alternate routes include Road 422 (from Tepee Creek or Leiberg Pass), Road 260 (Stull Saddle), and Roads 900 and 260 (Riley Saddle). In addition, Road 6749 (along Short Creek) will remain open. Depending on the route taken, the detour may add about four to 15 miles to a trip through this area. Though this temporary road closure may be an inconvenience for people using this road, replacing the culvert with a bridge will allow cutthroat trout, and other native fish, access to this tributary for spawning and rearing. Ultimately this will benefit trout populations downstream in Teepee Creek and the Coeur d'Alene River and enhance the catch for anglers. The short term closure of the road should provide lasting benefits for fish populations.