Water Monitoring
Since 2000, the Task Force has gathered water data to evaluate the health of the Gallatin River.
We use this data to build a record of chemical and physical indicators of water health and to identify and assess wide-spread algae blooms which have occurred in 2018, 2020, and 2022. This data guides our advocacy work and on-the-ground restoration efforts. Read the most recent water report from 2023 to learn more.
Science in Action
Algae Blooms
In 2018, the Gallatin River experienced the largest algae bloom in recent history. In partnership with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, we are undertaking a multi-year study to identify the specific causes of these widespread, harmful algae blooms, and how we can prevent them in the future.
Gallatin Canyon
Growth in Gallatin Canyon is putting stress on an already fragile resource. Decentralized wastewater management is exacerbating the issue—but there is good news on the horizon. In early 2020, a Water and Sewer District was formed by four Canyon landowners, setting the stage for higher quality treatment and better wastewater management.
Upgraded Treatment
In spring 2021, the Big Sky County Water and Sewer District will break ground on a new wastewater treatment facility. The upgraded plant will have profound positive impacts on water quality within the West Fork drainage, and the decision to upgrade was based largely on Task Force data collected over the last 20 years.