South Meadow Creek Headgate Design

Madison Conservation District (MCD) and Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks (FWP) have been cooperating with landowners on a South Meadow Creek restoration projects since 2010. It has been a multifaceted program aimed at improving water quality and volume through updating an old irrigation system, improving spawning habitat and access. The project has been supported by many organizations, with the landowners being a major contributor. Over $100,000 has been spent since 2011 and more grants to complete this effort are in the works.

The Madison River Foundation has the opportunity to play a small but important role in the effort. As is the case with many granting agencies, engineering design work is not covered by funds targeted for restoration. The Foundation can pay for the design of a new headgate on the irrigation canal. The new head gate would protect restoration work already completed to improve spawning habitat and allow fish movement farther up the creek.... above the current headgate.

In early May of 2023, MCD, FWP, the landowner and design firm met at the site to discuss the design and placement of the new headgate. The design is underway and work will continue on the project in 2024.

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