Julie Ralston

This study provides guidance for irrigators in the Bitterroot Valley by evaluating existing irrigation system infrastructure, hydraulic assumptions, and developing a capital improvements plan with concept designs. Its primary objectives are to gather background data, assess irrigation systems to identify priority needs for diversions, headgates, and flow measurement, and recommend improvements for optimizing surface water management. Key focus areas include surface water conservation, improved management, preservation of irrigation infrastructure, and protection of aquatic habitat, all while assisting irrigators with infrastructure replacement and prioritization.

The Bitterroot Conservation District's 2025/2026 Annual Plan outlines strategic goals to conserve soil and water resources, control erosion, and administer the 310 Law for the protection of streambeds and banks. Key focus areas include the efficient administration and enforcement of the 310 Law, comprehensive conservation education initiatives, promotion of sound conservation planning and practices among landowners and agencies, and various sponsorships for community and environmental programs. The plan aims to preserve natural resources, protect wildlife, and enhance public welfare.

The Board discussed the donation of $100.00 to the Bitter Root Land Trust for matching funds for a conservation easement grant. Remsight LLC presented on their irrigation intelligence platform technology services. The Board discussed a request from Trout Unlimited for a letter of support concerning a grant application, which ultimately failed to pass due to concerns regarding the potential use of funds for decommissioning access roads. In cost-share programs, reimbursement was approved for cost-share agreement 007-2026. Committee reports included a site visit for the Chesebro Ranch LLC conservation easement application. Partner reports covered various topics, including floodplain applications, updates on proposed major subdivisions, a restriction on horse imports due to equine herpesvirus, and upcoming conferences. Old business involved the review and decisions on several 310 applications, including approvals, denials, and tabling motions related to dredging, irrigation work, stream channel restoration, debris removal, and culvert crossing. New business consisted of approving or tabling several 310 applications related to bank stabilization, stream restoration, irrigation sump pumps, and fallen tree removal. District business included the approval of the October budget report, county checks, and adjustments to an employee's working hours.

This Long Range Plan for the Bitterroot Conservation District outlines the fundamental policy framework for conserving and enhancing soil and water resources in Ravalli County from 2021 to 2025. It identifies five priority resource concerns: forest health, pasture, range, and cropland health, water quantity, water quality, and noxious weeds. The plan details goals and objectives to address these concerns, alongside routine activities such as administering the Natural Streambed and Land Preservation Act, providing conservation education, and offering cost-share support to landowners.

The Board discussed several items, including reviewing letters from the City of Darby and the City of Hamilton regarding the reappointment of Urban Representatives. The Board advised a member presenting drone footage of woody debris hazards on the East Fork of the Bitterroot River to contact the US Forest Service for removal. The Board approved a $300 sponsorship for one student's registration to the Montana Natural Resources Youth Camp. Discussions included proposed amendments to the 310 Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM) and civil penalties, including a motion to post a legal notice for the BCD appendix to its adopted rules. Furthermore, a potential issue with 310 applications being misdirected through the state's 310 Gilly Platform was reported and believed to be resolved. In cost-share programs, the Board signed a no-till drill rental agreement and moved to limit the no-till drill use to Ravalli County for the first year. Committee reports included an update on rulemaking concerning House Bill 685 and a report on the Open Lands Board site visit for the Griffin Cattle application. Partner reports covered scheduled local agricultural events, Ravalli County Planning Department's upcoming paternity leave, and the NRCS receiving $12.6 million for EQIP programs. Old business included the denial of one 310 application due to a lack of design and the approval of another for fallen tree removal. New business primarily consisted of approving several 310 applications for irrigation maintenance and hazardous woody debris removal. District business concluded with the approval of the December budget report and county checks.