Upper Yellowstone Recreation Study

Photo by W. Tilt

ROLE: Study Leader

TIMEFRAME: 2020-2024

DELIVERABLES: Final Report and Recommendations

As recreational demands on the Upper Yellowstone River have increased it becomes more and more important to take proactive steps to protect both the natural resources of the river and the quality of the recreation experiences. Many river users and riparian landowners have noted the increased potential for conflict and impacts to natural resources, but such anecdotal observations have historically lacked any foundation of empirical data that in turn can provide a basis for informed discussions on river management.

In 2018, at a meeting of the Upper Yellowstone Watershed Group (UYWG), Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) staff discussed river recreation planning in the State of Montana and the potential need for such an effort on the Yellowstone River. FWP made it clear that the first step in any such planning was the presence of baseline data on recreational use—and in the case of the Upper Yellowstone—no such data existed.

In response the UYWG launched the Recreational Use of the Upper Yellowstone River Study in 2020. The project was developed cooperatively by the UYWG with the active involvement of river users and the community including professional fishing guides, raft companies, local businesses, riparian property owners, universities, and state, and federal land management agencies.

For four years the project has assessed the level and type of recreational use, capacity of existing access facilities, and gauged public attitudes, including river recreationalists and riparian landowners. In 2024, with the data collection completed, the study is focused on developing a discussion draft and recommendations intended to spark discussion, revision, and additions from river users, management agencies, and the public.

This study has been made possible through the support of individuals, businesses and foundations, including donors through the Hoot and Park County Community Foundation.

sample of recreational use data analysis