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Low Water Levels on Lake Sakakawea Challenge Access for Resorts and Boaters

Low Water Levels on Lake Sakakawea Challenge Access for Resorts and Boaters

Lake Sakakawea is experiencing significantly low water levels, standing at 1,827.3 feet, about 12 feet below average. This situation is attributed to reduced snowfall in the Rocky Mountains, leading to decreased runoff into the Missouri River basin. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, responsible for managing the Garrison Dam and the lake, reports that while the lake is not expected to reach its historic low of 1,807.1 feet set in 2007, the current levels are causing access issues. Many boat ramps and marinas are closed, increasing traffic and wait times at the few that remain open. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department is preparing to utilize low-water ramps, which have been submerged since the lake's recovery from its previous low.
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Invasive Species Threaten Missouri River Ecosystem, Urgent Action Required

Invasive Species Threaten Missouri River Ecosystem, Urgent Action Required

The Missouri River in Montana is facing a significant threat from invasive aquatic species, particularly Eurasian watermilfoil. This invasive plant, first detected in Montana in 2007, spreads easily and can outcompete native vegetation, leading to reduced biodiversity and ecological imbalance. Experts emphasize the importance of preventive measures, such as cleaning, draining, and drying boats and equipment, to stop the spread of these species. The presence of invasive species like zebra and quagga mussels in nearby states further underscores the urgency of the situation.
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Western U.S. Faces Routine Fishing Closures Amid Record Heat and Drought

Western U.S. Faces Routine Fishing Closures Amid Record Heat and Drought

Fishing closures have become increasingly common in the Western United States due to record heat and drought conditions, which have significantly raised river temperatures to levels lethal for fish. This summer, Colorado has imposed restrictions on 19 rivers covering 635.5 miles, while Montana has expanded afternoon fishing restrictions to 1,200 miles of rivers. These measures aim to protect species like trout, which are highly sensitive to temperature changes. The closures, which typically occur from late June through early September, are a response to the ongoing heat and drought that have been exacerbated by climate change. The situation is unprecedented, with wildlife officials noting that such restrictions have become routine over the past decade.
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Sand Creek and Bobcat Lake Fires Expand Near Wisdom, Montana

Sand Creek and Bobcat Lake Fires Expand Near Wisdom, Montana

New mapping has revealed that the Sand Creek Fire near Wisdom, Montana, has expanded to approximately 1,000 acres. The fire is located 7.5 miles southeast of Wisdom and is in proximity to the Bobcat Lake Fire, which is also showing growth. Terrain-driven winds are pushing the Sand Creek Fire south, with active fire behavior including crowning and torching. In response, law enforcement is evacuating campgrounds in the affected areas, and crews are working on structure protection and fire containment.
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Fishing Restrictions Imposed in U.S. West Due to Record Heat and Drought

Fishing Restrictions Imposed in U.S. West Due to Record Heat and Drought

Wildlife officials across the U.S. West are implementing fishing restrictions as record heat and drought conditions have led to dangerously high water temperatures in rivers and streams. These conditions are particularly harmful to trout, a species that requires cool water to survive. The restrictions, which include banning fishing during certain hours, aim to reduce stress on the fish. This summer, Colorado has imposed restrictions on 19 rivers, while Montana has extended afternoon fishing restrictions to cover 1,200 miles of rivers. The measures are a response to the ongoing heat wave affecting the region, which has been exacerbated by climate change.
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Silvertip Fire Expands to 6,029 Acres with No Containment in Montana

Silvertip Fire Expands to 6,029 Acres with No Containment in Montana

The Silvertip Fire, a wildfire caused by lightning, has expanded to 6,029 acres with zero containment, according to the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation Interactive Fire Map. The fire is located approximately 15 miles southeast of the Spotted Bear Ranger Station near Silvertip Mountain. It is primarily burning in the upper half to two-thirds of the Slim Creek drainage area. The fire is consuming heavy timber on steep slopes, which includes standing dead and downed trees. The fire was initially detected by aircraft on July 24, 2026, during reconnaissance for another reported fire. Efforts to contain the fire are ongoing, but the challenging terrain and dense timber are complicating firefighting efforts.
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Heat wave bringing record-breaking temps, heightened wildfire risk to parts of Western US

Heat wave bringing record-breaking temps, heightened wildfire risk to parts of Western US

Dangerous heat was hitting parts of the Western U.S. this weekend, prompting warnings for people to stay inside and heightening wildfire risks in many areas
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Western U.S. Rivers Face Fishing Closures Amid Record Heat and Drought

Western U.S. Rivers Face Fishing Closures Amid Record Heat and Drought

Fishing closures are increasingly common in Western U.S. rivers due to rising temperatures and frequent droughts, exacerbated by climate change. Wildlife officials have imposed restrictions on fishing during certain hours to protect species like trout, which are highly prized by anglers. These measures are in response to an exceptionally dry winter and widespread drought, leading to lower water levels and higher river temperatures. The Yellowstone River and other popular fishing spots in Montana and Colorado have seen afternoon fishing restrictions to reduce stress on fish. This trend has been observed over the past decade, with closures becoming routine from late June through early September.
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Heat wave brings record-breaking temps, heightened wildfire risk to parts of Western US

Heat wave brings record-breaking temps, heightened wildfire risk to parts of Western US

Dangerous heat was hitting parts of the Western U.S. this weekend, prompting warnings for people to stay inside and heightening wildfire risks in many areas
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Fishing closures are becoming routine as record heat warms rivers in the US West

Fishing closures are becoming routine as record heat warms rivers in the US West

Trout need cool water to survive
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Pacific Northwest Faces Extreme Fire Weather Conditions Amid Ongoing Wildfires

Pacific Northwest Faces Extreme Fire Weather Conditions Amid Ongoing Wildfires

The Pacific Northwest is grappling with a historic wildfire season, with over 1.9 million acres burned across Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana. More than 50 large wildfires are actively burning, straining firefighting resources. A dry cold front is expected to worsen conditions by bringing powerful winds and low humidity, creating an environment conducive to rapid fire growth. The Storm Prediction Center has issued an Extreme Risk fire weather outlook, and the National Weather Service has declared a Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) Fire Weather Warning for parts of the region. Air quality alerts remain in effect due to smoke from the fires, further impacting residents.
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Pacific Northwest Faces Escalating Wildfire Threat Amidst Dry Cold Front

Pacific Northwest Faces Escalating Wildfire Threat Amidst Dry Cold Front

The Pacific Northwest is experiencing a historic wildfire season, with nearly 2 million acres already burned. The situation is expected to worsen as a dry cold front brings powerful winds, increasing the risk of explosive fire growth. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, over 50 large wildfires are currently active across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. These fires have significantly degraded air quality, prompting Air Quality Alerts in the region. The dry cold front is expected to lower humidity and bring strong winds, creating conditions conducive to rapid wildfire spread. Fire Weather Watches have been issued, with the most dangerous conditions anticipated in central and eastern Washington and north-central Oregon.