Save Holland Lake is advocating for an informed discussion surrounding the specifics of a proposed wastewater system to be built at taxpayer expense. To be clear, Save Holland Lake wants to see the Lodge operating and enjoyed by the public. However, we are concerned the proposed expansion is not in line with caring for the lake, its wildlife, and the surrounding public lands. The proposed wastewater plant appears to be a harbinger for a major expansion of use and potentially, expansion of the Lodge. Expanding use will have cumulative effects on the pristine alpine lake and its important wildlife habitats.

A large percentage of the public has voiced that they want the lodge operating “as it always did.” What that historic use level means is worth discussion. The current proposal is designed to support far above that historic level of use — and with minor modifications could support a massive site expansion larger than what POWDR proposed in 2022.

What drives the size of the plant is primarily “off-season” or “winter” use. The current USFS plan creates more “off season” waste water than the original POWDR proposal. The current proposal is 642,400 gallons for off season use. POWDR had previously proposed 476,640 gallons. Remember how massive that original expansion was?

Does it make sense to spend 3-4 million dollars of taxpayer dollars to build a system where 90% of the wastewater comes from a privately owned business?

Simply put, we don’t think the plant should be as large as proposed. We don’t think taxpayers should fund a wastewater expansion fully for the benefit of a privately owned business. And we don’t think the USFS should quietly create the infrastructure to allow another POWDR plus-size site expansion when the public voiced overwhelming opposition.

The wastewater rebuild is not an “all or nothing” situation. Please tell the Flathead National Forest that you advocate for sensible reconstruction of the waste water treatment facility that is in line with the public interest; a smart solution that is right for the community and safe for the surroundings.

There are many layers to this complicated problem. And there is more than one solution. The Forest Service must explore all options to lessen the impacts on the lake, its wildlife, and the surrounding forest.