HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-21-20 Public Comment - M. Gaillard - Pfeil Floodplain PermitFrom:Marguerite Gaillard
To:Agenda
Subject:Pfeil Floodplain Permit
Date:Monday, December 21, 2020 11:57:36 AM
Dear Mr. OCallaghan,
It has recently been brought to my attention that a 57 unit Glampground is being planned on a
flood-prone island within the Gallatin River corridor. This plan proposed by Jeff and JirinaPfeil brings some concerns to light about the health of this river. I am aware that this land is
private, and was sold. However, this does not discount the fact that the land on which thisGlampground is in danger of overstressing from more visitors, and can cause erosion and
flooding further downstream. Furthermore, I express concern for sewage pipelines located bythe riverside, and what pollution could occur if these pipelines are damaged due to effects
from this proposed Glampground.
The river was named in July 1805 by Meriwether Lewis at Three Forks. The eastern
fork of the three, it was named for Albert Gallatin, the U.S. Treasury Secretary from
1801–14. The Gallatin River is an amazingly scenic river – winding through high
alpine meadows, dropping into the rocky Gallatin Canyon, and flowing out into the
Gallatin Valley. It is an exceptionally popular fly fishing destination for rainbowtrout, brown trout, and mountain whitefish. Portions of the river are designated as a Blue
Ribbon trout stream while the remainder is designated Red Ribbon by the Montana
Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Department.
Any construction project, especially one this large, in such a fragile zone is sure todisrupt the ecosystem. Cranes with a nearby rookery will have to move, and the
overall riparian area will be strongly impacted. Additionally, with visitors comes
pollution and overuse which will impact the area incredibly. Because the planned
construction is in a flood zone, it may become flooded at times and thus create morepollution and work for the city of Bozeman.
I grew up in Bozeman, and have spent many summers canoeing, kayaking, and
swimming in this river. I am extremely grateful to have such beautiful water nearbyand know many people who feel the same. This river is more than just a strip of
water. It is a legacy of Montana, home to many organisms, and is a keystone
ecosystem of this valley. We need to ensure the health of the river, for us as humans,
and for the health of the valley and Montana as we know it. I oppose the Pfeil Floodplain Permit (F2020-015), and I am asking you to do thesame.
Thank you for your time, and I wish you happy holidays.
Sincerely,
Marguerite Gaillard
-- Margo Gaillard(she/her)
(406) 551.0375gaillardmargot@gmail.com