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Montana Drought Threatens Fisheries, Triggers Early Fishing Restrictions

7/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Drought in western Montana is putting river ecosystems and fisheries at risk, leading to early fishing restrictions. With river flows in the upper Clark Fork and Blackfoot at just one-third of normal, the $900 million fishing industry faces challenges. Additionally, the SKQ Dam on Flathead Lake has cut instream flows by 45% to save water.

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Story summary

Drought in western Montana is putting river ecosystems and fisheries at risk, leading to early fishing restrictions. With river flows in the upper Clark Fork and Blackfoot at just one-third of normal, the $900 million fishing industry faces challenges. Additionally, the SKQ Dam on Flathead Lake has cut instream flows by 45% to save water.