Another Step Taking Towards Completion Of Ike’s Walking Path In Culbertson

Another positive step for Ike’s Fishing Pond and Walking Trail in Culbertson took place last week when First Community Bank donated $5,000 to the project.

Kenneth Forbregd, volunteer project manager, estimates about $90,000 has been raised including a $58,000 grant from the Montana Department of Tourism and a $12,000 grant from the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

He noted that the Culbertson Lions Club took on the project about six years ago. The club has received great support from the Town of Culbertson and community members.

“Our mission is to serve our community,” Forbregd said of the Lions Club. “We want to get both the young and old out to spend more time in the great outdoors.”

He is hopeful that fishing can take place at the location next spring.

“It will be ongoing for years,” Forbregd said of improvements and additions at the site. “We plan on planting trees and extending the walking trail.”

Butch and Chris Finnicum donated the land for the project. A bridge, from 1908, was donated by Richland County. The bridge was transported with the help of Cowboy Crane and BDS Heavy Haul.

Hurley’s Oilfield Services is donating much of the work for the project. Four employees of the Fairview- based company reside in Culbertson.

“Agri Industries played a big part in the solar powered wells project,” Forbregd said. “They gave us a good deal.”

Peter Olson and Gene Marchwick each volunteered their services. Forbregd mentioned that Jasper Backhoe Services and Joe Falcon also played important roles.

“There are so many more too,” Forbregd said of people who donated time or funds to make the fish pond project a success.