Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about UMOWA and the importance of this river system.
What exactly is UMOWA?
UMOWA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit conservation organization created in 2014 by local citizens concerned for the health of the Upper Missouri Watershed. The organization was founded on the principle of collecting, validating and publishing scientific data to guide conservation decisions.
What has UMOWA Accomplished?
UMOWA has been instrumental in raising awareness of critical issues affecting the Upper Missouri River. Our completed projects include: six years of Water Quality Study, two years of Aquatic Plant Study, six years of Macroinvertebrate Study, and several volunteer clean-up and streambank restoration events.
How can I support UMOWA?
You can support UMOWA through donations or memberships. Checks can be mailed to: UMOWA, P.O. Box 377, Helena, MT 59601-0377. You can also donate online or become a member through our website.
What is Invasive Species Prevention?
Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) are organisms that negatively impact water bodies. Non-native species such as Eurasian watermilfoil, New Zealand mud snails, and Quagga and Zebra mussels pose serious threats to our waterways. UMOWA has partnered with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to develop prevention strategies and installed the first boat wash station in Craig, Montana.
Where does my donation go?
100% of your donation goes directly toward UMOWA’s mission of understanding, conserving, and enhancing the Upper Missouri River. All Board members serve voluntarily without compensation.
What is UMOWA’s Vision Statement?
“To be the primary source for high-quality data on the Upper Missouri River providing useful information guiding decisions by all stakeholders.”
What is UMOWA’s Mission Statement?
“To understand, conserve, and enhance the unique ecological and recreational resources of the Upper Missouri River.”
What are the benefits of the Aquatic Insect Study?
Six years of evidence-based studies have determined that aquatic insect health depends on periodic spring run-off flushing flows. This critical data is being used in collaboration with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, Northwestern Energy, and the US Bureau of Reclamation to inform water management decisions.
Why study Aquatic Plant growth?
Anecdotal evidence suggested that aquatic plant density increased dramatically in the Upper Missouri River. Without a formal scientific investigation, nothing can be done to properly define the condition and develop strategies to mitigate it. UMOWA’s study provides the data needed to take meaningful action.
Still Have Questions?
We'd love to hear from you. Reach out to our team and we'll be happy to help.
Contact Us