In May 2008, the Marias River Watershed group proudly released their comprehensive assessment of the Marias River, one of the Missouri River’s main tributaries in the Middle Reach.  Funding for the assessment of the lower portion, from the Circle Bridge to the Marias’ confluence with the Missouri River, was provided by the Missouri River Conservation Districts Council.

The assessment includes detailed water chemistry, macroinvertebrate, and periphyton sampling as well as riparian health and channel condition assessments at 94 points throughout the 210-mile long river channel.  Additionally, the assessment uses historic aerial photos to identify a channel migration zone that can be used in future planning efforts.  After careful review of the collected data, the Marias River Watershed group provided six “General Planning Considerations” as well as several reach-specific planning considerations dealing with everything from stream bank stabilization to fish habitat to riparian improvements and noxious weeds.

More information about the assessment is available by contacting the Marias River Watershed group at the Liberty County Conservation District, 406-759-5778, ext.102.