BILLINGS – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is partnering with the Bureau of Reclamation to conduct research on endangered pallid sturgeon in the upper Missouri and lower Marias rivers. The research effort will include modified flow releases out of Tiber Dam, located 18 miles southwest of Chester, Montana. Flow modification may potentially benefit pallid sturgeon and this research and investigation will further explore that potential.
Under the proposed flow request from FWP, beginning in late April releases from Tiber Dam into the Marias are planned to be stepped up from a release of approximately 700 cfs to 2,000 cfs. This would be followed by a reduction to 1,500 cfs in early May and a stepped increase to 3,000 cfs in late May and early June. Near mid to late June releases would be stepped back down to manage reservoir storage. Depending on actual inflows into Tiber Reservoir during this period, release rates and schedules will be adjusted accordingly. Proposed releases are not anticipated to significantly impact Tiber Reservoir levels, boat launching and recreation.
River recreationists and irrigation pumpers are advised to be cautious throughout the period of increased flows as river stage is expected to fluctuate during this time. For further information on pallid sturgeon research activities, please contact Jason Rhoten with FWP at 406-454-5853. For questions about Tiber Dam releases, please contact Clayton Jordan with Reclamation at 406-247-7334.
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