BILLINGS, Mont. – The public is reminded that possessing, discharging and using fireworks is strictly prohibited on all Bureau of Reclamation lands and water bodies. These areas consist of multiple reservoirs, surrounding lands, and campgrounds across the state of Montana, including Anita Reservoir, Bighorn Reservoir, Canyon Ferry Reservoir, Clark Canyon Reservoir, Fresno Reservoir, Gibson Reservoir, Helena Valley Reservoir, Nelson Reservoir, Pishkun Reservoir, Tiber Reservoir known locally as Lake Elwell, and Willow Creek.
“Reclamation’s reservoirs often offer excellent recreational activities, but please keep in mind these are working reservoirs, supplying irrigation water to 10 million acres of farmland, delivering more than 10 trillion gallons of water to 30 million people every year, and producing 15% of America’s hydropower, therefore it is important we protect this critical infrastructure,” said Montana Area Manager, Ryan Newman.
According to the National Safety Council, fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires each year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and nearly 17,000 other fires. Reclamation expects an increase of visitors during the upcoming holiday weekend, and many reservoir sites will have a heightened presence of law enforcement patrols. Visitors are encouraged to take all water safety precautions, practice patience at congested boat ramp and dock areas, clean up all their trash and litter, and be respectful to other recreationists enjoying public lands.
Below are the projected water levels and releases at most Reclamation-managed reservoirs in eastern Montana for the holiday weekend:
