MONTANA WATER TRUST MONITORING PROGRAM

The Montana Water Trust is working to successfully establish a three-part monitoring program: 1) hydrological 2) biological and 3) public perception. This monitoring program currently operates with support from the organization’s employees, independent contractors, and student interns from the University of Montana. The Montana Water Trust also strives to collaborate with state and federal agencies and other local groups to achieve common monitoring and conservation goals.

Although public perception assessment methods have not yet been established, the importance of these techniques should not be underestimated. Without willing water right holders, the opportunity for water acquisitions does not exist; therefore, assessing the attitudes and perceptions of landowners we have worked with is crucial to the future and success of the Montana Water Trust.