Flathead Wild & Scenic River Water Quality Monitoring

The Flathead River Basin comprises 6 million acres of forests, agricultural land, and relatively small communities, in the heart of the 18 million-acre Crown of the Continent ecoregion. This ecoregion is one of the most ecologically diverse and intact landscapes remaining in North America and is a globally significant climate-change refuge.

The North, South and Middle Forks of the Flathead River drain approximately 4,464 square miles with an average annual discharge of 9,699 cfs, as measured in Columbia Falls. Three Forks of the Flathead River contribute 85% of the water flowing into Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. The Flathead River flows out of Flathead Lake and is the largest tributary of the headwaters of the Columbia River. Additionally, the Flathead River system is one of the last strongholds for the native Westslope Cutthroat trout where some of the largest conservation projects in the country are aimed at restoring this species to the Three Forks.

Formed in 2019, the Flathead Rivers Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the Flathead River System.

"Our mission at Flathead Rivers Alliance is to support and enhance the outstanding and remarkable Three Forks of the Flathead River"

Flathead Rivers Alliance seeks volunteers to help with water quality monitoring efforts on the North and Middle Forks of the Flathead Wild & Scenic River. We all seek a better understanding of impacts that an increase in river users, population, and changing climate trends will have on the river corridor. Gathering baseline monitoring data will also help our stakeholder groups determine how to focus nonpoint source pollution education and outreach, and where and how to expand monitoring. Monitoring runs May through October.

Flathead Rivers Alliance seeks a better understanding of impacts that an increase in river users, population, and changing climate trends will have on the river corridor. Gathering baseline monitoring data will also help our groups determine how to focus nonpoint source pollution education and outreach, and where and how to expand monitoring.

FRA will evaluate current nutrient conditions in Middle, North, and South Forks of the Flathead Wild & Scenic River, by collecting baseline water quality data.

To learn more about the Flathead Rivers Alliance or Monitoring Montana Waters, click the caption below each organization's logo.