Updated 2026: Jefferson River Drought Management Plan

This Drought Management Plan guides efforts to reduce resource impacts and support equitable water use during critical periods. It is a voluntary effort involving agricultural producers, conservation groups, anglers, municipalities, businesses, and government agencies. Established in 2000, the plan focuses on maintaining a minimum flow of 50 cfs at the Jefferson River at Parsons Bridge near Silver Star, MT - USGS-06027600 (https://bit.ly/43Y2Pba)gage near Waterloo.

The drought plan has been integral to keeping enough water in the river to keep riffles connected and avoid an ecological collapse...