Give Local for AIS prevention
For Immediate Release
May 4, 2017

This year, the Flathead Basin Protection Fund (FBPF) is participating in the Flathead Gives campaign. The FBPF supports the work of the Flathead Basin Commission (FBC), the agency charged with AIS prevention efforts on a basin-wide scale. For the last five years, the FBC has operated early season watercraft inspection stations to supplement the regular season inspections provided by Fish, Wildlife and Parks. The FBC has also pioneered a variety of innovative management tools to enhance AIS prevention efforts, including the deployment of K-9 AIS detection teams; the funding of eDNA research, in partnership with the Flathead Biological Station, to improve early detection capabilities; and the establishment of a permanent watercraft inspection station at Browning, Montana, in partnership with the Blackfeet Nation.

During the 2017 legislation session, the FBC was granted authority to operate a unique pilot program for the Flathead Basin. However, this legislative mandate was unfunded, so the FBPF/FBC are now trying to secure funds to (1) train additional K-9 detection teams; (2) establish additional inspection stations to better protect Flathead Lake; and (3) expand existing AIS monitoring efforts. Caryn Miske, Executive Director of the Flathead Basin Commission said, “Given that the Missouri system is now fouled with invasive mussels, we need to step up and do all we can to prevent their introduction into the Columbia River Basin.” The Flathead serves as the headwaters for the entire Columbia River watershed which spans from Montana to the Washington coast.

Fortunately, concerned citizens can assist the FBPF/FBC with these funding needs by contributing to the Flathead Give Local campaign today, May 5th by 6:00 pm. Go to Flatheadgives.org, find the FBPF site, and make your contribution today.

For further information contact Caryn Miske, Executive Director Flathead Basin Commission at 406.240.3453.