
Built around the Upper Missouri.
A 501(c)(3) founded in 2014 by the people who fish, guide, study, and live alongside this river — committed to its long-term ecological and recreational health.
Holter Dam to Cascade — 35 miles of one of America's great wild trout fisheries.
Healthy populations of wild rainbow and brown trout depend on clean water, stable streambanks, diverse aquatic insect life, and intact riparian habitat. UMOWA's science and stewardship programs are built to defend exactly that.
Every study we commission and every volunteer day we run is ultimately about keeping this river alive — for the fish, the wildlife, and the people who love it.

“To be the primary source for high-quality data on the Upper Missouri River — providing useful information guiding decisions by all stakeholders.”
“To understand, conserve, and enhance the unique ecological and recreational resources of the Upper Missouri River.”
Get to know the alliance.
Our History
How UMOWA got started in 2014 — and what's happened in the decade since.
Board of Directors
The volunteer board guiding UMOWA's strategy and stewardship.
Science Advisory
Independent scientists and technical leaders shaping our research agenda.
Partners
Organizations standing alongside UMOWA — agencies, outfitters, and allies.
FAQ
Common questions about UMOWA, the watershed, and how to get involved.
Careers
Open roles — when we're hiring, you'll find it here.
Got a question, idea, or story to share?
We'd rather hear from you than not. UMOWA is small enough that emails reach actual humans.