SWAN VALLEY - Kurt Steele, Flathead National Forest Supervisor, invites the public to provide input on the proposed Holland Lake Lodge Facility Expansion Project. The project proposes to repair the existing historic old lodge, add new buildings, enhance accommodations and upgrade the infrastructure within the existing 15-acre permit area.
The Flathead National Forest will be hosting a public meeting about the Holland Lake Lodge Expansion Project Thursday, Sept. 8 from 5 -7 p.m. on the Holland Lake Lodge grounds at 1947 Holland Lake Lodge Road. The purpose for this public meeting is to engage in information sharing with the public on project activities and to answer questions. Comments will be accepted until Sept. 21.
"I have managed Holland Lake Lodge for 20 years and it is a truly special place where people have come to recreate for nearly 100 years, but for Holland Lake Lodge to thrive, the resort needs some T.L.C," said Christian Wohlfiel, owner of Holland Lake Lodge, in a press release. "This project is intended to preserve the spirit and integrity of what is here, while upgrading facilities so we can share this place with guests for years to come."
Holland Lake Lodge, originally built in 1924, is a rustic lakeside resort located in the Swan Valley and operated by Holland Lake Lodge, Inc. Holland Lake Lodge operates under a special use permit authority from the Forest Service.
Holland Lake Lodge (HLL) currently consists of the old lakefront lodge (Old Lodge), a gift shop, six cabins and manager's cabin. In total, the property can accommodate 50 overnight guests, 12 employees and the general manager. According to the Scoping Letter, the Lodge facilities are inadequate for both current and projected future public demand.
Proposed facility improvements are aligned with the goals and benefits detailed in the Lodge's Master Development Plan that was accepted April 15, 2022. According to the Flathead National Forest press release, improvements would provide a family-friendly destination with the modern comfort and conveniences that visitors expect, while retaining the integrity of location.
The proposal states architecture elements would reflect the Adirondack design commonly used in dude ranches, lodges and resorts across Montana. Environmental best practices would be implemented including water and energy conservation measures; increased fire safety; shoreline protection and natural vegetation cover; protection of the night sky; bird and waterfowl protection measures; and the Lodge would offer wildlife awareness and conservation material for guests. There would also be up to 25 new jobs.
The Lodge was last updated in 1947 and is need of some preservation work. This would include modern comfort upgrades for a sustainable future. Activities proposed would preserve the old lodge, barn and manager's cabin and demolish and remove multiple structures including the gift shop, five cabins, storage shed, watersports shed and sauna/massage buildings.
The proposed expansion would provide overnight accommodations for up to 156 guests including the Bob Marshall Lodge with 28 rooms, 10 lake cabins and 16 smaller studio cabins. There would also be a new Welcome Center built and a Mission Mountains Restaurant, constructed adjacent to the Old Lodge, with indoor seating capacity up to 100 guests and outdoor seating for 30.
In addition a new small watersports building, maintenance building and employee housing for up to 12 employees will be built. There will also be five recreational vehicle spaces for employees equipped with electrical and sewer hookups.
Proposed expansion of the East Holland Lake Connector Trailhead would include expanding the parking area up to three-acres to provide for additional vehicles with barriers placed to designate the parking area. Hitching rails would be installed to accommodate pack and stock users. The existing vault toilet may be replaced, or an additional vault toilet may be added.
The proposal also includes installing one dock for non-motorized watersport equipment as well as two swimming docks.
Holland Lake Lodge's joint venture partner POWDR is an adventure lifestyle company based out of Park City, Utah.
"POWDR has built its brand on the premise of delivering soulful experiences that matter to guests and reflect the local community," said Justin Sibley, CEO of POWDR, in a press release. "Holland Lake Lodge is a soulful place, where families spend time in the outdoors with the people they love. We look forward to continuing this legacy."
Tentative project implementation is scheduled to begin 2023 with full project implementation anticipated in one to five years (2024-2028). Holland Lake Lodge would initially be operated during the summer season, approximately May 15 – Oct. 15. All new buildings would be winterized in anticipation of sufficient demand to operate during winter season, approximately Nov. 20 – Jan. 15 annually.
For more information about the project visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61746
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