This project was funded by a Capacity Support Grant from the MWCC Watershed Fund.
WHO & WHERE
The Petroleum County Conservation District in Winnett, Montana—a seven-member board covering roughly 1.07 million acres—implements hands-on, common-sense conservation through education, outreach, and project development to help local producers and landowners sustain their businesses.
BEFORE THE FUNDS
Erratic precipitation—rare, intense storms followed by prolonged dry spells—exposed aging irrigation infrastructure, led to poor stormwater retention, and left ranchers and irrigators without a coordinated watershed strategy.
WITH THE FUNDING
Funding creates a dedicated Watershed Coordinator position to develop a county-wide watershed restoration plan, secure grants, and drive on-the-ground projects such as mesic restoration, irrigation system upgrades, and off-stream water storage.
KEY BENEFITS
- Water security – enhanced capture and storage of high-flow events, bolstering aquifer recharge and consistent supply for irrigation.
- Local economy – upgraded irrigation infrastructure reduces maintenance costs and protects agricultural livelihoods.
- Climate resilience – nature-based restoration and storage solutions buffer drought impacts and extreme precipitation variability.
PROJECT OUTCOMES AND IMPACTS
Project in progress