The Montana Department of Environmental Quality has designated the Lower Gallatin Watershed as a priority basin, which will make significant funds available to tackle pollution in its major streams and rivers. Key issues include sedimentation, nitrates and phosphates from runoff, and E. coli, primarily from dog waste. The area, covering communities like Bozeman and Belgrade, has 23 major waterways, 15 of which are impaired. This funding will support projects such as stabilizing stream banks and managing growth in Bozeman. The Gallatin Watershed Council plans to expedite project readiness for funding in 2022. Previously, the DEQ prioritized the Bitterroot Watershed and has allocated substantial funding for restoration and water quality initiatives.
