NorthWestern Energy
Leading the project and providing funding and resources.
Madison River-Norris Reach Island Enhancement Project
Project Overview
Project Overview
NorthWestern Energy, in partnership with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and RDG (now part of SWCA), announces the commencement of the Madison River-Norris Reach Island Enhancement Project. This project will enhance aquatic habitats and restore riparian areas along the Madison River 11 miles downstream from Madison Dam to improve trout habitat, particularly to improve the survival of young fish.
The project focuses on enhancing fish habitat, restoring riparian areas, and protecting trout. Key activities include enlarging existing islands, treating eroding streambanks, and connecting riparian wetlands and side channels to the main river.
The project focuses on enhancing fish habitat, restoring riparian areas, and protecting trout. Key activities include enlarging existing islands, treating eroding streambanks, and connecting riparian wetlands and side channels to the main river.
Impact on Recreationists
Impact on Recreationists
Beginning in September 2025, recreationalists on the Madison River may experience temporary detours due to construction activities. The Madison River will be accessible throughout the project, however river users may be routed around the project area. The detour will be in the river, not a portage. The project is expected to be completed by December 2025.
We appreciate the public's understanding and cooperation as we work to improve the river's health and fish habitat.
The Madison River-Norris Reach Island Enhancement Project offers numerous benefits, including:
- Enhanced Fish Habitat: The enhancement of islands and side channels will provide critical spawning and rearing habitats for fish, promoting healthier fish populations.
- Improved Riparian Areas: The project will restore and protect important riparian areas, contributing to the overall health of the river ecosystem.
- Erosion Control: Streambank treatments will reduce erosion rates and channel enlargement, preserving the river's natural structure and function.
- Support for Recreational Fishery: The project will aid in the enhancement of Rainbow and Brown Trout, which are at historical low levels.
This project is a collaborative effort involving several key partners:
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
FWP Mission: Steward the fish, wildfire, parks, and recreational resources for the public, now and into the future.
River Design Group
River Design Group (RDG) is a team of highly skilled professionals that combine science-based knowledge with proven restoration techniques to advance the field of ecosystem and river restoration.
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
The Bureau of Land Management Montana/Dakotas manages about 8.3 million acres of federal lands and about 47.2 million acres of federal mineral estate in the three states of Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota.