Showing posts with label Bitterroot River. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bitterroot River. Show all posts

Monday, November 12, 2012

Why Rivers Flood, program speaker Karin Boyd


This program is open to the public.
Do you know the difference between a thalweg and a sculpin? One relates to fluvial morphology and the other is a fish. Karin Boyd is an acknowledged leader in fluvial morphology. Her main professional interests are determining how physical conditions and human influences collectively affect the form and behavior of the river systems, and applying this information to develop strategies for remediation, restoration, and long-term resource management. She has worked in kangaroo infested streams in Australia, snake invested streams in Mississippi and bulldozer infested streams in Montana. With this opportunity to learn about these concepts, Bitterroot residents will gain a better understanding of the impacts of construction projects near waterways.
Information for Spice of Life Cafe and Catering
163 S 2nd St Hamilton, Montana
(406) 363-4433
Directions | Menu | Hours
Information for Elks Lodge
203 State Street
Hamilton, MT 59840-2522
(406) 363-3031
Get directions
For more information, contact Cassie Buhl (cassie.buhl@gmail.com) or Marshall Bloom (drtrout@mtbloom.net) or 406-363-3485.
Learn more about Bitterroot Trout Unlimited at www.brtu.org.

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Celebrate Earth day with Bitter Root Water Forum on April 22

PROJECT: Grab your gloves and join Bitter Root Water Forum on Earth Day, THIS Sunday, April 22nd from 12pm-4pm, for the second re-vegetation project on the East Fork!

We will be planting nearly 100 native plants and installing browse protectors (the plastic, mesh pieces that guard plants from hungry wildlife).  The project site is just north of the Sula store and East Fork Road on the west side of Highway 93 – approximately mile marker 14.  Adjacent gravel bar and guardrail will be flagged on project day.
**Carpools are strongly encouraged.  Please meet us at the Safeway in Hamilton (101 E. Main Street) at 11:00am on Sunday to coordinate ride sharing.

Bring gloves and wear water proof/sturdy boots.  Dress in layers and bring a raincoat—we’ll work in a bit of rain but hopefully we will have shine!  Please bring shovels, picks, and post hole diggers if you have them; some tools will be provided.
We will start working at noon and have a volunteer appreciation BBQ when we’re done! 
 ***Please RSVP to brwaterforum@bitterroot.net or call us at 375-2272 to let us know you plan to help!

Bitterroot Trout Unlimited is co-funding this project and members will be participating.

See photos from last year's re-vegetation work on Bitter Root Water Forum's Facebook Page. You must be a member of Facebook to view them.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Keep up with Ravalli County Floodplain regulation revisions at the Planning Homepage

The regulations are being revised and the County Commissioners will be discussing them tomorrow, December 13 and provide input for the first time. For more information contact:
Eric Anderson, P.E., CFM
Ravalli County Floodplain Manager
215 S 4th St, Suite F
Hamilton, MT 59840
406-375-6530 phone
406-375-6531 fax
 
Plan to attend the public meeting with the County Commissioners. See the link below for more information.

Ravalli County Floodplain – meeting Dec 13, 1:30 PM

The meeting information is actually the previous BRTU blog post.

Monday, June 6, 2011

National Weather Service - Missoula MT

 Want more information about western Montana weather and river flows? See this link National Weather Service - Missoula MT or click on the map below.

Western Montana and Central Idaho Weather  Map FAQs  |  Glossary
Click on the map below for the latest forecast.
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Last map update: Jun, 6th 2011 at 8:19:30 am MDT





Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Public input sought for Montana fishing regulations - Hamilton meeting is June 8

Photo courtesy Billy Burk

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks review statewide fishing regulations and proposal changes every four years and offers public discussion forums. 
The 2011 MT FWP review public meeting in Hamilton, Montana is:
  • Date: Wednesday, June 8
  • Time: 7:00 pm
  • Where: Bitterroot National Forest Supervisor's Office, 1801 North 1st, Hamilton, MT 406-363-7100. Park behind the building and enter through the back door.

There are a number of proposals statewide. Some of the proposals could potentially affect the fishing regulations in the Bitterroot. Specifically, the two proposals that anglers in the Bitterroot might be interested in are:  
1. Increasing harvest on expanding brown trout populations in areas such as Rock Creek (near Clinton), Bitterroot River and Clark Fork River drainages. and

2. Simplify the regulations throughout the Region by reducing the number and variety of harvest regulation exceptions, particularly within the Bitterroot drainage and between rivers.

Montana Fish  Wildife and Parks will present information and accept comments from the public.
The public comments will be considered when recommendations are placed on the statewide list of tentative proposals. The tentative list will be available this summer and additional  comments accepted at that time. Eventually, the Montana Fish and Game Commission will make final decisions in October 2011.
Questions? Email Chris Clancy at cclancy@fs.fed.us

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Fishing the Bitterroot River with a living legend, John Foust speaks to BRTU

Legendary fly-tier, guide and general raconteur, John Foust, will be the speaker for Bitterroot Trout Unlimited (BRTU) at the March 17, 2011 public meeting. It is still winter, but we can talk about fishing. Soon it will be warm enough to enjoy the river. Get inspired, come hear John Foust tell fishing tales and more.



What: John Foust, speaker
When: 7:00 PM, March 17, 2011
Where: the Elks Lodge - Get directions
203 State Street
Hamilton, MT 59840-2522
(406) 363-3031

John, his wife Elna, and their dog Mayda are among the best known characters on the Bitterroot River. John and Elna have forgotten more about fishing than most of us remember or will ever know. John has graciously agreed to give this month’s presentation. Come hear John talk about his life’s adventures, including lots of fishing, in an interesting and entertaining fashion.
Before John speaks, Chase Sanderson, the Bitterroot National Forest Service Fisheries intern for 2010 will give a quick recap of his summer project on native trout.
For more information, call 406-363-3485 or email BRTU President cassie.buhl@gmail.com.
All are invited to join John, Elna and BRTU members at Spice of Life in Hamilton at 5:00 PM before the meeting. Long-time TU supporter Karen Suennen, owner of Spice of Life, will be donating 10% of the proceeds to BRTU. Come on down and join the fun!
Information for Spice of Life Cafe and Catering
163 S 2nd St
Hamilton, Montana
(406) 363-4433
Directions
| Menu | Hours
More about Bitterroot Trout Unlimited

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Three more BRTU monthly programs to note on your calendar

Bitterroot Trout Unlimited proudly presents monthly programs open to the public. For 2011, we only have three more. See below.

February 17, 2011 – “State of the Bitterroot.” Chris Clancy, Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks, Hamilton, MT.

March 17, 2011
– “Fisheries and Fishing in Yellowstone National Park.” Todd Koel, Supervisory Fisheries Biologist, Yellowstone National Park

April 21, 2011
– “The Kootenai and the Yaak: Rivers and Fishing that Time Forgot.” Tim Linehan, Linehan Outfitting Company, Libby, MT.  


The meetings begin at 7:00 pm at the Elks Lodge
203 State Street
Hamilton, MT 59840-2522
(406) 363-3031
Get directions.


It is tradition to have dinner before the meetings at with the speaker at Spice of Life at 5:00 pm. Long-time TU supporter Karen Suennen will be donating 10% of the proceeds from each bill to Bitterroot Trout Unlimited. The public is invited come on down, have dinner and a drink and visit before the meeting.

Information for Spice of Life Cafe & Catering
163 S 2nd St
Hamilton, Montana
(406) 363-4433
Directions
| Menu | Hours

To join or for additional information about Trout Unlimited, go to www.montanatu.org, or contact Greg Chester, 363-0033, gchester55@aol.com), Marshall Bloom (363-3485, drtrout@mtbloom.net) or Chapter President Cassie Buhl, cassie.buhl@gmail.com.

Annual state of the Bitterroot by Montana FWP biologist Chris Clancy, 2-17-11

Chris at last years talk
February 17, 2011, Chris Clancy will talk about the state of the Bitterroot River to the public. The talk is sponsored by Bitterroot Trout Unlimited.

The meeting will begin at 7:00 pm at the Elks Lodge
203 State Street
Hamilton, MT 59840-2522
(406) 363-3031
Get directions.
Chris will offer a status report and update on the river system and fishery trends. Among the other topics to be covered are fishing regulations, a floating bypass for the Corvallis Canal, and the impact of fish screens and siphons on Skalkaho Creek.

It is tradition to have dinner before the meetings at with the speaker at Spice of Life at 5:00 pm. Long-time TU supporter Karen Suennen will be donating 10% of the proceeds from each bill to Bitterroot Trout Unlimited. The public is invited come on down, have dinner and a drink and visit with Chris.

Rainbow trout - an entirely synthetic fish. Learn more Feb 7 in Missoula, MT

Join Missoula and the author for a reading and signing of Anders Halverson's An Entirely Synthetic Fish. The event will be at Fact & Fiction, 220 N. Higgins Ave, Missoula, Montana on February 10th from 7 pm to 8:20 pm. For more information call the book store at (406) 721-2881. Click here for directions to Fact and Fiction downtown.
About the Book

An Entirely Synthetic Fish: How Rainbow Trout Beguiled America and Overran the World (Hardcover)

By Anders Halverson
$26.00 - ISBN-13: 9780300140873
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Yale University Press, 3/2010
Anders Halverson provides an in-depth account of the rainbow trout and why it has become the most commonly stocked and controversial freshwater fish in the United States. Rainbow trout have been proudly dubbed “an entirely synthetic fish” by fisheries managers. According to Halverson, his book examines the paradoxes and reveals a range of characters, from nineteenth-century boosters who believed rainbows could be the saviors of democracy to twenty-first-century biologists who now seek to eradicate them from waters around the globe. He discusses how the story of the rainbow trout is the story of our relationship with the natural world—how it has changed and how it startlingly has not.

Anders Halverson is an award winning journalist with a Ph.D. in aquatic ecology from Yale University. With support from the National Science Foundation, he wrote this book as a research associate at the University of Colorado’s Center of the American West.
A lifelong fisherman, he currently lives in Boulder, CO.
Other Montana events for this book are:
Book Signing at Country Bookshelf Bookstore
, Bozeman, MT on Monday, February 7, 2011 at 4:00pm. Click here for more information about the Country Bookshelf Bookstore.
Book Discussion at Montana State Univ., Museum of the Rockies, Bozeman, MT Monday, February 7, 2011 at 6:00pm. Click here for the website for Museum of the Rockies
Plenary Address at the Montana Chapter of the American Fisheries Society Annual Meeting, Great Falls, MT, Wednesday, February 9, 2011 at 9:00am. Click here for AFS information http://www.fisheries.org/units/AFSmontana/
For fun, he posted this quiz on GoFishn.com. The winner received his book.
The Rainbow Trout Quiz: Question #1 - GoFISHn on GoFISHn
In 1996, IdahoDepartment of Fish and Game hatchery managers routinely taught their fish one thing before releasing them into the wild. What was it?

The answer: worms. Candy Craig got it right, and she's the winner of a copy of the book. The reason the fisheries officials put the fish on a worm diet was to prepare them for the wild. They feared the fish would swim around looking for pellets  when they were released, which is their normal fare in the hatchery.

Friday, October 8, 2010

2010 Banquet review and photos

September 24, 2010 was the 31st annual Bitterroot Trout Unlimited Banquet. Bitterroot Trout Unlimited (BRTU) is one of the most respected groups in the Bitterroot Valley. They are proud of their status and the accomplishments the chapter has made in collaboration with the private and public sector. BRTU is “working today for the trout of tomorrow.”

The banquet theme this year was “Working together for conservation” and the fundraising event was a smashing success. The delicious organic dinner was catered by Riversong Gourmet and the beverage service was provided by Silver Coin Casino. As usual, local brews were available featuring Bitter Root Brewing Company. One will want to put this event on the September 2011 calendar. Check www.brtu.org for the date. It will be posted early in 2011.

Proceeds of the banquet and the sponsor program support the BRTU Education and Stewardship efforts, and, unlike other sponsor programs, the money will stay local and is not used for salaries!
Two new projects are being launched this year. They are in addition to all the conservation and education projects they have done for many years.
New project #1: support of a fisheries intern to work on native trout projects with the U.S. Forest Service fisheries staff.
New project #2: the underwriting of a fish biology class at Corvallis High School. This class will include the acclaimed “Trout in the Classroom” program.

See photos from the banquet in the slideshows below.







Monday, September 20, 2010

2010 BRTU Banquet - Friday, September 24, in Hamilton, MT


Kingfisher by Monte Dolack www.dolack.com
Tickets are moving well for this Friday’s banquet, September 24, but there are still some left.

The list in this blog entry is only the Live Auction items and does not include the spectacular list of things we have for the Silent Auction, raffle and door prizes. And, you won't want to miss the wonderful dinner by Riversong Catering.

The event is at the Bitterroot River Inn and begins at 5:00 pm.

You can reserve or purchase tickets at:
Fishaus Tackle (click for map), 406-363-6158, fishaus@blackfoot.net or

Western Flies andGuides
(click for map), 406-363-9099, westernfliesandguides@gmail.com.

If you are coming to the banquet, please feel free to stop by early on Friday afternoon to reserve some seats.

See you there! 

LA-01: “Tie One for the Buggers.”  For more than a decade, BRTU has sponsored the Bitterroot Buggers so that local kids can learn about flytying, flyfishing and trout conservation. This year with the involvement of Hamilton teacher Ria Overholt, the club has moved to the next level. At tonight’s banquet, Bitterroot Buggers Shelby Harrness and Matt Bienusa have been applying their considerable flytying skills to create this premium. The proceeds from the flies will help us maintain a high level of support for this flagship program. (Item #55)
Winning Bid: _______ Bidder Number:___

LA-02: “Sweetgrass Rods Bamboo Walking Stick and Print.” The “Booboys” aka Glenn Brackett and Jerry Kustich operate Sweetgrass Rods in Twin Bridges and make the finest split bamboo rods in the world. For our 31st anniversary banquet, the Booboys have created not a rod, but rather a highly unique bamboo walking stick. The skill that the Booboys put into everything they make is evident in this highly original item. In addition, this auction premium includes a framed Russell Chatham Sweetgrass Print. When the Booboys left that other company to found Sweetgrass Rods, Russ felt that the “tradition was continuing” and authorized an updated version of this long unavailable picture. Framing by Art Focus. (Item #4)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-03:  “A Trip to Tuscany.” Robert Neaves, owner of Art Focus, is well-known as a master of oil painting. Bob has been contributing fine artwork to BRTU since our very first fundraiser 31 years ago and is the only artist to have donated every year. However, Bob is also a master cook of gourmet continental cuisine. His trips to Europe meld fine art and history with sublime culinary experiences. This singular premium pairs a gourmet Tuscan dinner for four prepared by Bob with an original oil painting to commemorate the meal. So, prepare your senses and dig deep for this premium. (Item #3)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-04:  “Jenny’s River.” People who float the Bitterroot River with BRTU member and guide Jenny West come away with a special perspective on the river. Jenny has a unique approach to fishing and a winning way with the fish. Jenny was born and raised fishing the river so her delicate feel is truly instinctive. If you select this one day float trip for two on the Bitterroot, you will experience Jenny’s River. (Item #13)
Winning Bid: ________   Bidder Number: _______

LA-05:  “Tacos and Nachos – NOT!!!!: A Mexican Fiesta.” Head south up the West Fork to the Elk Track Ranch where the ambiance of a Mexican Fiesta will greet up to eight dinner guests.  The menu will reflect a sophisticated Mexican cuisine and style of dining.  Don’t expect tacos and nachos! Donated by Dick and Judy Estler. Must be used by September 1, 2011. (Item #9)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-06:  “The Kingfisher.” Inspired by a sight familiar to all anglers, internationally recognized Montana artist Monte Dolack has created this evocative scene of a Kingfisher perched in a snag surveying the river.  The location is not important, but some more experienced anglers may recognize the particular bend. Monte and his wife Mary Beth Percival own Monte Dolack Gallery and they have donated this special piece of art. www.dolack.com  (Item #16)
Winning Bid: ________  Bidder Number:_______

LA-07:  “A Naturalist’s Day on the River.” All too often when we float the Bitterroot, we forget the magical features of our wonderful river system. Well, leave the rod and reel at home when you and a companion take this float trip with Fred Weisbecker, but do bring your camera and binoculars. Few people have as comprehensive a grasp of the ecology, flora and fauna on the river as Fred does. And, you can top the day off with a superb dinner in a natural setting at The Farm Table at Sleeping Child Farms. (Items #24, 53)
Winning Bid: ________  Bidder Number:_______

LA-08:  “A Pink Rod and a PSA.”  Every year Temple Fork Outfitters produces a limited number of pink flyrods. Organizations like ours auction these sought after rods to underwrite worthy projects the purpose of which is to promote breast cancer awareness, diagnosis and treatment. BRTU is proud to donate this rod to assist local efforts in our community. In addition, Dr. Matt Munding of Ravalli Urology and Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital are donating a complete prostate screening, including a PSA and an exam, to flesh out the package. Proceeds from this premium will go to the Aid For Mammography program at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, a project that makes breast cancer screening possible for women who could not otherwise afford it. (Items #12, 111)
Winning Bid: _______ Bidder Number: ___

LA-09:  “A Cutthroat on the Bitterroot.” Long time contributor Judith DeYoung has painted a gorgeous cutthroat for this year’s 31st anniversary banquet. Her original scratchboard elegantly depicts a native cutthroat trout, Judy is the acknowledged expert in this demanding art form and this time the fish will hook the angler! Framing is by The Frame Shop. (Item #25)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-10:  “Antique Fishing Treatise Dated 1807.” In 18th and 19th century England, private angling treatises described fish and their habitat, along with “bait and bobs.” Long-time BRTU supporter Jay Haglund chanced upon this singular treasure in an antique book seller’s lair. It has interesting information about fish, habitat, tackle and some entomology. This is a rare collector’s item and certainly one of the most unusual premiums we have ever had. (Item #48)
Winning Bid:_______ Bidder Number:_____

LA-11:  “Picture Your Home in This Frame!”  Local artist Dale Jorgenson has gained recognition with his commissioned watercolors of homes, scenes, pets and fish. His previous experience as an architect gives his renderings a fine sense of perspective for homes and scenery. For our 2011 banquet, Dale has offered to create a framed watercolor of your home, a favorite scene, or a beloved pet. A one of a kind item. (Item # 7)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-12:  “Ross and Scott.” Not a new Celtic duo from Scotland, but a great packable combo for serenading the trout on the Tay, the Spey or even a wilderness loch in the Bitterroots. A 9 ft 4 piece A3906 Scott flyrod is matched with a Ross CLA2 Reel equipped with a 6 wt Scientific Anglers flyline. This package donated by BRTU, Western Flies and Gudies, and Fishaus Tackle will have you dancing the jig while you fish. www.scottflyrod.com and www.rossreels.com (Items #11, 32)
Winning Bid: _______ Bidder Number:______

LA-13:  “A Day on the Blackfoot.” Former BRTU President “Banjo Jack” Mauer, owner of Wapiti Waters, has guided extensively on the Blackfoot River for many years. The Blackfoot is known as a river of many moods, and a day with Jack will show you the tricks. The water is varied and gorgeous and the fish surprisingly strong. After a day of personalized instruction on the Blackfoot for 2 anglers with Jack, you will want to return over and over. If you prefer, Jack may be able to substitute a late summer trip on the lower Bitterroot flyfishing for both tricos and northern pike; he calls it trico-piko. www.wapiti-waters.com (Item #17) Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

LA-14: “A Private Wine Tasting Event.” In the time since Gena Eales opened her store, Provisions Fine Foods & Wines has become the place in town for reliable gourmet fare - fine wines, quality microbrews and artisan food products. By special arrangement with BRTU, Provisions Fine Foods is donating a Private Wine Tasting for Eight People in your own home. Gena will select a number of high end vintages; you and your guests will learn how to evaluate, score, and appreciate the wines. This premium will turn one of your dinner parties into a truly memorable social event. (Item #67)
Winning Bid: ________   Bidder Number: ______

LA-15:  “Montana Trout.”  Missoula watercolorist Kendahl Jan Jubb is critically acclaimed for her unique approach to trout and nature. This piece is a vivid rendering of an underwater fantasy at a favorite Montana fishing spot.  Kendahl and her husband Ram Murphy, co-owners of Jubb-Murphy Fine Art, have contributed this archival quality limited edition print for our banquet -  the only TU chapter to which Kendahl has donated. Framing by Joe’s Studio.  http://www.kendahljanjubb.com (Item #10)
Winning Bid:_______ Bidder Number:___

LA-16: “Two Nights for 4 in the Big Hole at an Exclusive Private Bed and Breakfast.”   The Bitter Root Land Trust is working hard to help preserve critical resources and open space in our valley. BRTU is again partnering with the Land Trust to support their important efforts. The Land Trust is donating two nights for 4 people at a beautiful private Bed & Breakfast Retreat. The home is nine miles north of Wisdom on a bench overlooking the Big Hole Valley. The home is on 40 acres, situated in the middle of a 12,000 acre working ranch. Your host, BRLT Executive Director Gavin Ricklefs, will prepare 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners and even pack you picnic lunches. You’re not far from public access on the Big Hole River - bring your waders, fly rod and your raft. All proceeds from this premium will go to the Bitter Root Land Trust. www.bitterrootlandtrust.org (Item #28)
Winning Bid: _________   Bidder Number: ______

LA-17: “Gunning for the Big Boys.” Gunning for the Big Boys is the expression used by the guides from Bozeman’s Montana Troutfitters when they head out. Although this expression is particularly apt in the fall, it is true year-round in the Bozeman area if you are in the know. Started in 1978, Montana Troutfitters was Bozeman’s first full-service fly fishing shop and has maintained a high reputation for guides, equipment, and advice. Manager Kris Kumlien, son of legendary Bozeman guide Dave Kumlien, carries on the tradition and exacting standards at Troutfitters and has generously offered this exclusive one-day fishing trip for 2 anglers. They’ll pick the river and -oh, yes - better leave your teeny tiny 3-weight at home. www.troutfitters.com (Item #59)
Winning Bid: _________   Bidder Number: ______

LA-18:  “The Ultimate Gift for an Angler.” This item may well be the last piece of equipment that any angler will need! Ron Brothers of Brothers Mortuary has donated a premium bronze plaque that can be inscribed with the text of your choice. Matthews Bronze is acknowledged to be the premier fabricator of bronze plaques, and this item is suitable to commemorate a loved one or a pet, to denote a special event or to mark a special location or new home. The plaque can be mounted on a memorial, a large rock or tree, a masonry wall or almost any other structure. (www.brothersmortuary.com, http://www.matthewsbronze.com)     (Item #33)
Winning Bid: _______ Bidder Number:_____

LA-19:  “Before Blodgett Camp.” Legendary photographer Ernst Peterson ranged our mountains, streams and backcountry with his heavy camera in the mid-20th century. He also captured Bitterroot scenes that now represent a by-gone era. By exclusive arrangement with the Ravalli County Museum, BRTU is pleased to offer this stunning photo of an apple orchard on the near West Side before Blodgett Camp Road led to Blodgett Creek and Canyon Creek trailheads. The premium includes passes to the museum and a private viewing of the Peterson collection with museum executive director Tamar Stanley. Framing by Joe’s Studio. (Item #01)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number:______

LA-20:  “The Kootenai and the Yaak.” Ever wonder what it was like fishing in Montana before there was an espresso stand, a boutique flyshop and a Lexus at every pull-out? Those of us that can remember that far back call it honest fishing. To find out for yourself, come and fish the Kootenai or Yaak River on a float trip for 2 with Tim and Joanne Linehan of Linehan Outfitting Company and spend a night in a lovely cabin for 4 in the wild, but captivating upper Yaak River Valley. This is a genuine Montana experience that will draw you back again. www.fishmontana.com (Item #5)
Winning Bid: ______   Bidder Number: ______

BRTU apologizes for any errors or omissions. Auction items and order are subject to change. All sales are final and the auctioneer’s word is law! Payment is expected at checkout.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Photos of the Bitterroot Buggers

Bitterroot Buggers
Another year, another class of Bitterroot Buggers. Here is a group photo from April. See the slideshow below of casting and a fishing trip on the West Fork of the Bitterroot for Mathew Bienusa. He was guided by Bitterroot Bugger sponsor and instructor, Jeff Gray of
Western Flies and Guides

906 South 1st Street
Hamilton, MT 59840
(406) 363-9099

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Native fish restoration in Montana - Bitterroot Trout Unlimited public program 1-21-2010

The January BRTU meeting will be at 7:00 PM Thursday, January 21 at the Hamilton Elks Lodge, 203 State Street. Travis Horton, who is the Native Fish Coordinator for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, will give a presentation about Montana’s Native Trout programs. This will be a great opportunity to learn about what makes Montana’s fisheries so special. Attached is the postcard that is being mailed out. Please feel free to forward on to interested friends. If you have any questions, please contact Bill Bean at 363-6158, Fishaus@blackfoot.net

Link to programs offered by Bitterrroot TU


Elks Lodge

maps.google.com

203 State Street
Hamilton, MT 59840-2522
(406) 363-3031
Get directions

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Bitterroot Trout Unlimited, exciting future for our fisheries

BRTU Auction item - painting
The excitement of our 2009 banquet is past, but not the memories. See our photo albums from the banquet below. We are already planning the next banquet. Mark your calendar for Friday, September 24, 2010. You will want to attend for the great food, people, and many auction items.

Bitterroot Trout Unlimited (BRTU) wants to thank all the supporters, donors, contributors and helpers. The 2009 annual banquet, our 30th, was a huge success. Over 200 people attended and we raised more dollars than we hoped for, quite a feat in these difficult economic times.


We have a lot planned for the coming year and your support will be critical. You will be reading about Bitterroot Trout Unlimited in the news and you will see how we work to protect, preserve and restore our streams and fisheries.

In summary, be assured that we will redouble our efforts, and your help makes this possible.

Our banquet is a popular Bitterroot event, if you want to participate or contribute, your exposure and help as a contributing business or patron is far reaching.

If clean water and healthy trout are important to you, join our organization and consider serving on our Board of Directors. We welcome all local residents and newcomers as there is much work to be done and camaraderie to enjoy!
Bitterroot Trout Unlimited contact information:
BRTU President - Bill Bean, 406-363-6158 or fishaus@montana.com
Banquet organizer -Marshall Bloom, 406-363-3485 or drtrout@mbloom.net

Banquet photos of people, food, auction action and more


Photos of BRTU Auction Items


Photos of awards given at the BRTU banquet

Friday, July 31, 2009

Painted Rocks Reservoir in the Bitterroot Valley and How It Is Operated

Information from and email by Larry A. Schock, CFM DNRC Water Resources Division

Painted Rocks Reservoir State Park image by FWPHello Everyone,
The DNRC has received several inquires lately concerning the outflows at Painted Rocks Reservoir and how the reservoir is operated. Therefore, the following email will provide a brief explanation of reservoir operations.

The operation of Painted Rocks Reservoir involves three main parties. The DNRC, the Painted Rocks Water Users Association (PRWUA), and the MT FWP. Painted Rocks Reservoir holds approximately 32,656 acre-feet (af) of water, with 25,000 af of that stored water marketed to the MT FWP and the PRWUA. Additionally, there is the Bitterroot River Water Commissioner who manages the river in a manner that insures the apportionment and diversion of decreed and contract waters.

The DNRC is owner of the dam and the reservoir area. It is our responsibility to insure that the reservoir is filled and operated safely and that water is available for delivery to the contract holders. Once the reservoir is full the amount of water that flows into the reservoir equals the reservoir outflows. The reservoir is held in this state of equilibrium until the contract water is requested. The DNRC is under contractual obligation to deliver the contract water a the dam to the contract holders when it is called for.

The 10,000 af (or 2/5ths) of shares that has been marketed to the PRWUA is primarily used for agriculture purposes. Releases to the PRWUA usually occurs in mid July, but it is delayed this year due to higher than normal flows on the East Fork and the Mainstem of the Bitterroot River.

The other 15,000 af (or 3/5ths) of shares has been marketed to the MT FWP for in-stream uses . The local FWP contact in the Bitterroot Valley is Chris Clancy at 363-7169. The FWP contract water is released for instream flows in the mainstem of the Bitterroot River, based upon the conditions at Bell Crossing. According to the FWP current guidelines, they determine their desired releases based upon a minimum targeted flow rate of approximately 450 cfs at the Bell Crossing gage. As of today the flow rate at the Bell Crossing gage is approximately 737 cfs. The current FWP guidelines do not discuss the release of water from the reservoir for the augmentation of flows in the West Fork of the Bitterroot River, only the mainstem of the Bitterroot River.
Recently inquires have been made to the DNRC about the following issues; low water levels effecting raft access to the river; low water levels effecting quality of fishing; low water levels effecting water temperatures; and bad access road into the shuttle parking area upstream of the USGS gage below the dam.

Low Water Levels
The low flow conditions in the West Fork of the Bitterroot River are simply a reflection of the low inflows into the reservoir. As inflows to the reservoir drop, the DNRC adjusts outflows to match. The DNRC is passing all of the inflows through the reservoir, either over the spillway or out of the low level outlet. Flows below the dam will raise, pending a call for contract water from either the PRWUA of the MT FWP. The DNRC has recently made several gate adjustments on July 23rd, 24th, and 28th in order to insure that the reservoir outflows matched the inflows. These adjustments are also needed in order to transition the flows from the spillway to the low level outlet in preparation for the anticipated contract water deliveries. An additional adjustment is anticipated on July 31st. Requests for the release of contract waters for in-stream purposes on the West Fork of the Bitterroot River should be directed to the FWP.

The dirt road that goes upstream past the USGS gage to the pioneer launch site below Painted Rocks Dam, is not a DNRC road and it is located on US Forest Service (USFS) property. Any concerns about this pioneer road, launch, and camping site should be directed to the USFS West Fork District Ranger Office.

Larry A. Schock,
CFMDNRC Water Resources Division
Missoula Regional Office
(406) 721-4284
lschock@mt.gov

Click here to go to the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks (MT FWP) site for the West Fork of the Bitterroot.
Click here to go to the MT FWP site for Painted Rocks Reservoir, Tributary of the West Fork of the Bitterroot. They have an interactive map link.
Click here
for contact information for US Forest Service, West Fork Ranger District.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

BRTU Women's Fly Fishing Clinic, May 9, 2009

Photo courtesy of Jenny WestHave you heard about the Bitterroot TU Women's Fly Fishing Clinic?

It is Saturday, May 9th, from 10-4pm at Teller Wildlife Refuge (click for map).

Cost is $50 - a bargain that includes lunch and a TU membership. Meet new friends and have a lot of fun.
Learn on water casting, basic knot tying, reading water...basically everthing you need to get you on the water and fishing.
To sign up and for more information, contact:

Fishaus Fly Fishing photo courtesy of Jenny West
Bill Bean
702 North First Street
Hamilton, MT 59840
(406) 363-6158 or toll free (888) 363-6158
http://fishaus.montana.com/

or contact Jenny West at jennywest30@yahoo.com or phone 363-3397.

Instructors are Jenny West, Fly Fishing Guide from Hamilton,
and Certified Casting Instructor and Guide, Stacy Jennings.

Friday, March 6, 2009

MT HB 455 Big Sky Rivers Act Needs Your Action

This is a repost! If you haven't done so, please contact your representative and tell them to Support HB 455, The Big Sky Rivers Act. Read on for links to find contact information for your represtentative.

Help Protect Montana’s best rivers NOW!

Tell your Montana House Rep to support HB 455, The Big Sky Rivers Act!

Exploding streamside development threatens Montana’s blue-ribbon trout streams. By balancing river protection and property rights, The Big Sky Rivers Act protects water, crucial riparian areas and trout habitat from new development that occurs along 10 of Montana’s most iconic rivers.

Please contact your Representative TODAY and ask him or her to support HB 455.

HERE IS HOW:
Go here for information on how to contact your Representative and click here to find your legislator and contact them.

The Big Sky Rivers Act establishes a 250-foot protective streamside zone along 10 of Montana’s most famous rivers. It limits removal of key vegetation within a 150-foot buffer inside the streamside zone. The Big Sky River Act makes sense because it also allows local governments to opt-out of these mandatory conservation measures if they adopt ordinances or zoning rules that provide the same amount of protection.

Rivers included in the Big Sky Rivers Act: The Madison, main Flathead, Clark Fork, Bitterroot, Blackfoot, Smith, Jefferson, Upper Missouri, Upper Yellowstone and Gallatin.

Why support the Big Sky Rivers Act?
• It reduces costly flood and erosion damage by steering development away from known flood hazard areas;
• It protects private property rights by ensuring that actions of upstream landowners do not harm downstream landowners;
• It gives local governments control over the tools they need to manage their rivers;
• It protects water quality from stormwater runoff, lawn chemicals, and individual wastewater systems;
• It shields local governments from lawsuits brought by homeowners whose homes are damaged by flooding and erosion;
• It preserves critical fish and wildlife habitat by reducing the need for rip-rap and levees;
• It ensures high-quality recreational opportunities for anglers and boaters who value scenery and solitude;
• It includes a variance process to make sure no one loses the ability to build on an existing lot, and it includes a grandfather clause for existing homes.

Contact Members of the House and tell them this is a good bill. It protects private property as well as economic and recreational values all Montanans cherish.

Again go here for information on how to contact your Representative and click here to find your legislator and contact them.

What the Big Sky Rivers Act does NOT do:
• It does NOT take away the authority of local governments to create their own streamside development standards;
• It does NOT deprive riverfront landowners of the opportunity to build on their lots if their entire lot is located within a streamside management area;
• It does NOT apply within incorporated cities, towns or sanitary sewer districts;
• It does NOT prohibit property owners from rebuilding their home if it is destroyed by causes other than flooding;
• It does NOT grant public access to private property or expand the state’s stream access law.
• It does NOT affect agricultural-related buildings.

House Bill 455, the Big Sky Rivers Act, will be heard in the House Local Government Committee on Thursday, February 19th at 3:00 p.m. in room 172 of the Capitol. Please email, write, or call any and all members of the House of Representatives regarding the Big Sky River Act. If one of the following committee members represents your district, get them a message straight away!

House Local Government Committee meets Thursday, 3 p.m., Room
172

Arntzen, Elsie (R) (Chair) emarntzen@excite.com
Hands, Betsy (D) (Vice Chair) betsyhands@gmail.com
MacLaren, Gary (R) (Vice Chair) garymaclaren@yahoo.com
Becker, Arlene (D) arlene_becker@bresnan.net
Bennett, Gerald (R) jbenhd1@hotmail.com
Berry, Tom (R) tom@tomberrymt.com
Driscoll, Robyn (D) rdriscoll@peoplepc.com
Ebinger, Bob (D) buffalojump@imt.net
Grinde, Wanda (D) wsgrinde@aol.com
Hamilton, Robin (D) robinlhamilton@bresnan.net
Ingraham, Pat (R) pathd13@blackfoot.net
Menahan, Mike (D) mike@mikemenahan.com
More, Michael (R) mp_more@yahoo.com
Reichner, Scott (R) sreichner@centurytel.net
Reinhart, Michele (D) michelereinhart@gmail.com
Sands, Diane (D) hdsands@aol.com
Stahl, Wayne (R) wstahl@nemontel.com
Vance, Gordon (R) vancehd67@gmail.com

For more information contact Mark Aagenes at mark@montanatu.org or 449-9933. Or contact Bruce Farling at bruce@montanatu.org or 543-0054.