FWP urges slower speeds where sheep gather

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ANACONDA, Mont. (AP) — Anaconda-Deer Lodge County commissioners are considering a proposal to extend by a half-mile a section of Montana Highway 1 that has a 45 mph speed limit to reduce collisions between vehicles and bighorn sheep west of Anaconda.

Fish, Wildlife and Parks wildlife biologist Ray Vinkey says about 90 percent of the collisions happen where the speed limit increases to 70 mph. He says the half-mile would make a big difference for the sheep herd that is also battling an outbreak of pneumonia.

The Montana Standard reports sheep use the area to cross between Garrity Mountain and Stucky Ridge, and are attracted by the salt put down in winter to melt ice on the highway. The Anaconda Roads Department has agreed to sand that stretch of highway instead.

The commissioners are scheduled to consider the proposal this evening.

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