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Drone Rules for Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge

Stevensville, Montana (MT) • United States
Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters/Visitor Center, 4567 Wild Fowl Ln, Stevensville, MT 59870, USA
Lat: 46.5605 • Lng: -114.08
Ground Not allowed Last updated: May 30, 2026
Summary
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USFWS prohibits drones on Lee Metcalf NWR. The Bitterroot Valley refuge protects osprey nesting habitat in the Bitterroot River corridor adjacent to Missoula's Class C airspace.

Drone Rules - Lee Metcalf NWR, Montana

Drones are prohibited under USFWS Director's Order 210.

Airspace / Site Context

  • Located in Ravalli County, ~30 NM south of Missoula; Missoula International (MSO) Class C outer ring extends ~20 NM south and may reach the refuge
  • Osprey nesting platforms on the Bitterroot River are active April-August; 100-meter no-approach buffer required under USFWS policy
  • Bald eagle pairs nest in the large cottonwoods; Bald Eagle Protection Act applies

Key Rules

  • LAANC check for MSO Class C outer ring before flights in Ravalli County
  • Osprey nesting season (April-August): 100-meter (330 ft) lateral buffer from nest platforms; drone shadow triggers disturbance response even beyond 100 meters
  • USFWS Special Use Permit required; research permits go to USFWS Mountain-Prairie Region

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