Refusing a breath test in Missoula would be charged as a misdemeanor with a first offense fine of $300 if Councilman Dave Strohmaier has his way. The councilman convened a DUI panel to talk during a recent Public Safety and Health Committee meeting. Councilman Strohmaier chairs the committee. One of the ideas that emerged was making refusal of blood or breath tests a misdemeanor and the city attorney's office moved quickly on a draft.

"Those who would give up Essential Liberty to purchase a little Temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."

Benjamin Franklin

Hamilton, Montana, February 2, 2010 — The Bitterroot National Forest, Stevensville Ranger District announces the continuation of salvage operations on the 2006 Gash Fire. As weather permits, harvest operations will resume in February and continue this winter in the Smith Creek drainage.

Forest users and homeowners in the area can expect to see equipment working in the area, especially along or adjacent to the Smith Creek road number 1321. Caution signs will be posted at appropriate locations to alert road users.  The public is advised to drive with caution in the area and expect to meet log trucks on forest roads 1321 and 738. For public safety, a road closure will be implemented on Forest Development Road 1321 from the junction with Forest Development Road 13103 to the end of road 1321. The closure will be in effect from 6 AM Monday thru 6 PM Friday. The salvage harvest and the related road closure are expected to continue until the snow melts and roads dry in the spring.

For more information contact Pat McKinnon at the Darby Ranger District (406-821-3913).

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