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Forest Service explores basing helicopters at Townsend Airport; board open to review lease details
Summary
A Forest Service aviation representative has informally looked at Townsend Airport as a possible helicopter base; the board welcomed the idea in principle and asked for lease specifics, aircraft counts and sample agreements for legal review.
A board member reported contact from a Forest Service aviation staffer exploring relocating a helicopter base from Helena to Townsend because the airport is centrally located and was used during the 2021 Deep Creek fire. Members said they were open to the possibility but asked the agency to submit lease preferences, numbers of aircraft and ground vehicles, and a sample lease for attorney review.
Committee member (S2) described site‑selection conversations and noted operational considerations: helicopters could be staged on the south side of the new taxiway, or in alternative areas if hangar spots take priority. Board members discussed weight and ramp‑heat concerns and that heavier helicopters typically operate off the grass rather than new paved ramp areas.
The board asked staff to invite the Forest Service to present details at a future meeting and requested sample lease language to enable a quick attorney review if the agency moves forward.
