(Wise River, MT) – Save Wild Trout and Upper Missouri Waterkeeper will host a public and online event on Monday, July 14, starting at 5:30 pm MT at the Lewis & Clark Library in Helena to release the most comprehensive scientific report ever compiled on the Jefferson River Basin.
The event will feature hands-on activities and a keynote unveiling of the “Jefferson River Basin Abiotic Monitoring 2023–2024” report—an unprecedented study integrating drone-based thermal (FLIR) imaging, in-stream water quality sampling, and extensive on-the-ground monitoring. The event connects the public directly with the scientist and advocates leading the charge to protect Montana’s cold water rivers, wild trout, and the economy they support.
Where: Lewis & Clark Library, Helena, MT
When: Monday, July 14, 2025
- 5:30 PM – Hands-on demonstrations of water quality sampling and field equipment for all ages
- 6:00 PM – Report release with keynote presentation from Dr. Kyle Flynn, Save Wild Trout’s Brian Wheeler, and Upper Missouri Waterkeeper Guy Alsentzer
Media Registration: Contact Matt at 406-four31-zero815
The report presentation will also be streamed online.
Why: Save Wild Trout’s “Jefferson River Basin Abiotic Monitoring 2023–2024” report represents the most detailed scientific assessment of the Jefferson Basin to date. The study identifies critical trends affecting cold water rivers and wild trout, including nutrient pollution, dissolved oxygen, warming temperatures, and algal growth. The FLIR thermal imaging reveals coldwater refugia and temperature stress zones. The report offers actionable data for restoration and protection efforts for both private and public entities.
Save Wild Trout reported, including aerial visuals, widespread algae blooms at the end of June throughout the Jefferson River Basin. The early onset of algal blooms underscore the urgent need for expanded water quality monitoring and to address nutrient pollution impairing Montana’s rivers. Extensive blooms were documented on the Big Hole, Jefferson, and Boulder Rivers, along with two fish showing symptoms of head necrosis, which were submitted to Montana’s Fish, Wildlife, and Parks and the Department of Environmental Quality.