Lookout restoration makes progress

THOMPSON FALLS – Work to refurbish and improve the Big Hole Lookout on the Plains-Thompson Falls Ranger District is progressing well. The lookout may be added to the Lolo National Forest’s Recreation Rental program once the work is complete. The work has been a team effort involving Passport In Time (http://www.passportintime.com) volunteers, Forest Service heritage specialists, the Northern Region Pack String (https://www.flickr.com/photos/fsnorthernregion/5641423653) and the Wild Horse Plains Backcountry Horsemen who have provided stock support each week.

The project is now in phase two of a four-phase project.  During the summer of 2013 wall logs were replaced, the roof was re-shingled, and a new wood burning stove was installed.   Work has continued this summer to replace logs on a second wall, and the re-built windows are being painted and installed.  Next year work will begin on a third wall and both the floor and ceiling are scheduled to be replaced.

Earlier this month workers were visited by Molly Morrison, the last person to staff the Big Hole lookout during the summer of 1971. Recent thunderstorms gave Molly an opportunity to search for new fire starts with binoculars, which she eagerly embraced.

The restoration work is being funded by two grants this year, one from the Sanders County Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) and a grant from the Forest Service’s Region 1 Heritage Stewardship Enhancement Program.  Backcountry Horsemen member and Forest Service employee John Errecart has worked tirelessly to organize the logistics of the project. He also submitted and oversaw the RAC funding for a helicopter to deliver replacement logs and tools needed by the Historic Preservation Team.  

Forest Service heritage employees and volunteers have been available during the work to answer questions from the public who visit the lookout. They continue to welcome visitors as the work continues this week. Plains-Thompson Falls District Ranger Randy Hojem also extended his appreciation to the volunteers who have been instrumental in this effort.

“The folks from Backcountry Horsemen have been critical in allowing us to restore the lookout, which we hope to have available to the public for rental in the future,” Hojem said.