This Is What We’re About to Lose if Montana Doesn’t Act Now

BUTTE, MT - Montana is known for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine rivers that wind through rugged mountains and expansive valleys.

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But what if those rivers were no longer protected?

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That’s the alarming possibility facing some of the state’s most cherished waterways if the Montana Headwaters Legacy Act (MHLA) doesn’t clear its final hurdles in Congress.

The Montana Headwaters Legacy Act: A Lifeline for Our Rivers

The MHLA is a groundbreaking piece of legislation aimed at preserving 327 miles of river across 19 waterways in the Missouri and Yellowstone River systems.

These aren’t just any rivers; they include household names like the Gallatin, Yellowstone, Smith, Boulder, and Stillwater—places that Montanans and visitors alike treasure for their beauty, recreational opportunities, and ecological importance.

If passed, the act would designate these rivers as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This federal protection would ensure their free-flowing nature, water quality, and unique characteristics are preserved for future generations.

But despite widespread support, the bill’s future hangs in the balance.

A Stark Reality: Less Than 0.02% Protected

Here’s the harsh truth: out of Montana’s 177,000 miles of rivers and streams, less than 0.02% have Wild and Scenic designation.

That’s an alarmingly small fraction for a state that prides itself on its natural beauty. If the MHLA fails, that number won’t change—and Montana’s rivers could be left vulnerable to threats that could alter them forever.

Why These Rivers Matter

Montana’s rivers are more than just scenic wonders; they’re lifelines for wildlife, local economies, and the people who call this state home.

• Economic Impact: From fly fishing to rafting, outdoor tourism tied to Montana’s rivers generates millions of dollars annually and supports thousands of jobs.

• Cultural Significance: These waterways are woven into Montana’s identity, inspiring generations of artists, writers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

• Environmental Importance: Rivers like the Yellowstone and Gallatin provide critical habitats for countless species and are vital to the state’s overall ecosystem.

But without protection, these rivers face threats from pollution, overdevelopment, and climate change.

A 14-Year Journey… and Counting

The MHLA isn’t a hastily crafted bill. It’s the product of 14 years of hard work, collaboration, and compromise.

Local communities, businesses, and organizations across the political spectrum have come together to support it. Over 3,500 Montanans and 2,000 businesses have voiced their backing, making it clear that this legislation is about preserving a way of life, not pushing a political agenda.

Yet, despite this overwhelming support, the bill barely made it out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. A 10-9 party-line vote advanced it to the Senate floor, where its future remains uncertain.

The Opposition’s Concerns

Not everyone is on board.

Senator Steve Daines, one of Montana’s own, voted against the bill, citing concerns about its scope and a lack of unanimous support from county commissions. Critics argue that the MHLA could impose unnecessary restrictions on local land use and limit opportunities for development.

But supporters counter that the act’s targeted protections are balanced and necessary to prevent irreversible damage to Montana’s rivers.

What’s Next? A Race Against Time

The MHLA now awaits consideration for inclusion in a public lands package that Congress may pass by the end of the year. But time is running out.

If Congress fails to act, the years of work, collaboration, and hope tied to this legislation could go to waste—and Montana’s rivers could face an uncertain future.

Montana’s rivers are more than picturesque backdrops; they’re a vital part of what makes this state special. The Montana Headwaters Legacy Act offers a chance to protect these waterways for generations to come. But that chance won’t last forever.

Montanans who care about their rivers, their communities, and their future need to act now. Call your representatives. Write to Congress. Let them know that protecting Montana’s rivers isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity. If we don’t stand up for these rivers today, who will?