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Expanding the Restoration Toolkit for the Bull River

Lower Clark Fork Watershed Group logo

This project was funded by a Capacity Support Grant from the MWCC Watershed Fund.

Project Description

LCFWG researched techniques for converting reed canary grass landscapes to native vegetation as part of a long term, systems-based approach. This expanded our toolkit for ongoing restoration within the Bull River and beyond and to create a menu of options for addressing the problem that allows us to select the best method for each situation. We accomplished this by:

  • Studying articles, management guides, research papers, and other materials on the science and techniques for the control of invasive plant species, characteristics of reed canarygrass, ecological approaches to river and wetland restoration, and other relevant topics.
  • Compiling helpful resources and summarizing findings.
  • Sharing findings with partners through presentations and a Bull River projects tour.

Project Outcomes and Impacts

  • Drafted a Bull River Restoration Plan, linked on LCFWG’s Bull River Revegetation Projects page .
  • Hosted a September field trip for six members of the Idaho Master Naturalists program, a corps of volunteers that have helped contribute to Bull River revegetation efforts in the past.
  • Hosted an October presentation and projects tour highlighting research conclusions and past restoration efforts in reed canarygrass-dominated riparian areas.
  • Hosted a December 2022 MWCC Conservation Conversation titled “Restoring Native Vegetation in the Face of Reed Canarygrass.” Links to the recording and presentation slides.

Become part of MWCC’s NEW 406 Water Crew!

We aren’t at 406 members yet, so we’ll keep going! Joining at just $5 a month is one of the most impactful ways to convene and connect Montana’s community of water conservation practitioners from around the state. By joining the Crew, you will be contributing directly to Montana Watershed Fund initiatives, like professional development funding that provides stipends for travel, food, lodging, and registration for trainings and conferences.
“As a small nonprofit with limited funds, attending the Montana Annual Water Resources Association Conference is not an opportunity I would have had without a professional development award. Attending this conference helped me make connections that have helped me grow the Sun River Watershed Group and provide better benefits to our community.” -Tracy Wendt, Sun River Watershed Group Executive Director
Learn more about how joining the Crew today safeguards Montana’s landscapes, wildlife, and thriving communities!