Last month, The Task Force said farewell to our thrill-seeking, record-breaking, collaborative dynamo, Lauren Myli. Lauren joined the Task Force as a Big Sky Watershed Corps Member in January, bringing with her a background in and passion for conservation and outdoor recreation. As both a raft guide and ski instructor, working to protect the Gallatin was a natural fit. She was drawn to the Task Force’s approach to river conservation, which is rooted in science and collaboration.
One of Lauren’s most notable accomplishments was her work on the Gallatin River Cleanup. She took a leadership role in planning and executing this annual event, collaborating with partners and volunteers and doing community outreach to make sure word got out.

“After all the planning and preparation, it was really fulfilling to see the annual River Cleanup come to fruition. It’s been amazing to see community members get involved and rally for their environment!” she said. And her hard work and dedication paid off. We collected 2,844 pounds of trash around our community this year — a new record.
During her time with the Task Force, Lauren was also able to pursue interests in education and policy, from coaching young river stewards during Fly Camp to undertaking a septic maintenance outreach campaign and diving into the complex world of land-use planning policy.

Other memorable moments that will stay with Lauren forever were the 24-mile pilgrimage to gather water samples from Gallatin Lake in Yellowstone National Park, the headwaters of the Gallatin River; building values on our staff retreat with Meadowlark Guide Co. on the Yellowstone River; and bushwhacking in the pouring rain to collect water and algae samples.
“I am so grateful to all the people I worked with throughout my term. They’ve set such a high standard of passion, expertise, professionalism, and leadership in conservation, they’re the folks that our environment needs.” she said.

Jess Olson, Conservation Manager at the Task Force, was impressed by what Lauren was able to accomplish during her ten-month term.
“It was such a pleasure working with Lauren. Her enthusiasm for her work, her kindness towards her community, and passion for exploring the outdoors was inspiring to see every day. These Americorps terms are a short whirlwind, and she was able to accomplish so much. While all of us at the Task Force will miss her, we are so excited to see what her bright future holds!”
We are so grateful to have had Lauren on our team. Thank you, Lauren!