County Hosts Flood After Fire Open House Events

Published on February 28, 2025

Helena, MT – Lewis and Clark County Floodplain Program and Lewis and Clark County Emergency Management will host Flood After Fire Open House events on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm and Friday, March 14, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Both events will be held at the Bureau of Recreation Visitor Center located at 7700 Canyon Ferry Rd, Helena, MT. Residents that live in and around the Horse Gulch burn scar are encouraged to attend.  

Wildfire removes vegetation that normally reduces the effect of runoff from rain and rapid snowmelt, leaving the landscape susceptible to flash flood. It can take five years or more for vegetation to be restored, and debris flows and mudslides can impact properties in and near a burn scar long after the fire is out.

“Most residents around York and Helena are aware of the fire and the extensive damage it caused to the Canyon Ferry landscape,” said Worby McNamee, Lewis and Clark County Floodplain Administrator. “We want residents to be prepared as the season changes and the spring melt comes down those affected gulches.”

Open House attendees can learn about the spring outlook, how to identify potential threats to their property, and simple proactive steps they can take to prepare for the spring flood season.

“Preparation is key,” said Kyle Sturgill-Simon, Lewis and Clark County Emergency Manager. “Identifying and addressing flood risk areas on and around your property can keep you safe and protect your home throughout the year.”

For more information on Flood After Fire Open House events, please contact Betsy Kirkeby, Communications Coordinator at 406-447-8305.  

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