Drought Status
The Gallatin River is drought prone.
Drought is not merely a natural event; it is dependent on the demand people place on water supplies. Water conservation is one the easiest steps we can take to help mitigate the impacts of drought.
CURRENT DROUGHT STATUS
Severe Drought
IMPACT
- Serious water shortages are possible.
- Wildlife, agriculture, and local businesses may be affected.
DROUGHT RESPONSE (Year-Round)
- Limit overall water use.
- Limit refilling of hot tubs.
DROUGHT RESPONSE (Summer)
- Limit outdoor watering to 1-2 days per week.
- Water only in the early morning (6-8 AM) or late evening (9-11 PM).
- Limit installation of new sod or landscaping.
- Limit washing vehicles and hard surfaces.
DROUGHT OUTLOOK
Between March and April 2026, drought conditions in Big Sky, Montana worsened from Moderate Drought to Severe Drought according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Drought conditions are expected to persist over the next several months. The entire Gallatin County is experiencing drought. This means decreased streamflows, increased fire danger, and a need for voluntary conservation. All residents and businesses are encouraged to conserve water.
WATER SAVING RESOURCES
- Learn how to prepare for drought
- Learn how to create a water wise landscape
- Upgrade to water saving fixtures and apply for a rebate
Real-Time Drought Watch
This interactive tool provides a way to look at differnt variables that influence drought conditions for the Gallatin River and surrounding area. Learn how to use the tool.
Drought response means taking action.
The Gallatin River and its watershed are essential for our community, local businesses, and visitors alike — supporting tourism, recreation, agriculture, and healthy wildlife. During drought, water becomes more limited, and early conservation helps protect drinking water, maintain river health, and support local economies. The chart below shows how conservation actions increase from Abnormally Dry (D0) to Exceptional Drought (D4) and what residents, businesses, and visitors can do at each stage to help safeguard our shared water resources.
Drought impacts our quality of life.
The most significant impacts associated with drought are those related to water-intensive activities such as, wildfire protection, drinking water supply, agriculture production, landscape irrigation, recreation, and wildlife preservation. Explore how drought impacts us locally.
Thank you to our dashboard sponsors.
