	MISSION To protect the existing high quality of the Flathead Lake aquatic environment; the waters that flow into, out of, or are tributary to the Lake and; the natural resources and environment of the Flathead Basin.

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Volunteer Monitoring

Water Quality in the Flathead Basin

Volunteer Monitoring Program

Lake Volunteer Monitor Program

FBC Volunteers conduct annual summer data gathering
Volunteer monitors on three dozen lakes willwork with the FBC staff this summer to gather chemical data at close to 50 monitoring sites. The annual data gathering consists of collecting integrated water samples (surface to 100 feet) for analysis at the University of Montana Biological Research Station at Yellow Bay for Chlorophyll a and Total Phosphorous, in addition to conducting dissolved oxygen and temperature profiles down to 100 feet. This important data has been collected annually since the mid 1990s.

Volunteers sought for FBC Lake Monitoring Program

Area residents concerned about water quality issues on local lakes can make an important contribution to the community by becoming Flathead Basin Commission volunteer monitors.

Since 1992, the FBC has trained, equipped and supported over 100 local volunteers who have collected thousands of data reports at sites on over three dozen area lakes. This year, additional volunteers are needed to take over monitoring activities on a number of area lakes, including Skyles, Blaine, Flathead, Upper Stillwater and others. Anyone interested who lives on an area lake and would like to become involved in the program should contact the FBC. Additional volunteers can be used on almost all lakes currently served by the program.

After a brief training session, volunteers are expected to conduct routine monitoring activities at least twice a month throughout late spring, summer and early fall months. Volunteers need to have their own boat, but will be provided with other equipment.

Data collected by volunteer monitors is public information, and may be requested by anyone interested in water quality data on a particular lake. The FBC routinely shares such information with agencies and educational institutions.

The need for additional water quality monitors is ongoing. New volunteers are always welcome. Those interested in the program are urged to contact the FBC at 752–0081.