HELENA – A historically blocked cold water stream will be fully reconnected to the Big Hole River. Hyde Creek, a historic side channel to the Madison River, will be restored to improve spawning habitat for trout while also improving riparian habitat, floodplain connection and instream habitat.
These projects are two of the eight that recently received funding by the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission through the Future Fisheries Improvement Program (FFIP). In all, nearly $440,000 in funding was approved to improve Montana fisheries.
"I am very excited to see all of these projects get funded," said Future Fisheries Coordinator Bailey Duxbury. "From improving fish spawning and passage to improving floodplain connectivity and riparian habitat to reducing erosion, all of these projects will improve upon Montana's amazing natural resources and improve fisheries across the state."
The fisheries improvements include restoration of streams to a natural condition, installing riparian fencing, restoring streambanks and riparian areas, creating instream habitat and more. Projects will help both native and non-native fish, including bull trout, mountain whitefish, westslope cutthroat trout, brown trout, rainbow trout and numerous non-game fish.
This year's funding was paired with $1.15 million in match and other contributions from outside sources. The eight projects were submitted by landowners, watershed organizations, county governments, federal agencies and nonprofits.
Approved FFIP projects
Butte Area
- Big Hole Tributary Reconnection, Phase 2 - Alder Creek
- Tenmile Creek Fish Barrier
- Lower Racetrack Creek Restoration Project
Missoula Area
- Lower Grant Creek Restoration
- Marshall Creek Culvert Removal and Habitat Restoration
- Upper O'Brien Creek Restoration Project
Wisdom Area
- Christiansen Creek Fish Barrier
Ennis Area
- Madison River Side Channel Restoration - Hyde Creek
Applications for the FFIP summer-cycle grants are due May 15. Forms are available on FWP's website, fwp.mt.gov/FFIP, or at FWP offices.
Any individual or group with a project designed to restore or enhance habitat for wild or native fish may apply for FFIP funding. Applicants are encouraged to work with local FWP fisheries biologists. Landowners and other project partners usually share project costs, extending FFIP dollars.