Scientific Studies & River Reports

Collecting scientific data in order to understand the Missouri Watershed and influence the factors that impact the health and future of the river.

UMOWA has conducted several scientifically valid studies; the reports are posted here and we encourage you to review them. Our projects have included evidence-based scientific studies designed to focus on the health and viability of the Upper Missouri River.

To date, we have concentrated on three major issues: identifying and documenting the aquatic plant life from Holter Dam to Cascade, the viability of the insect life in the river, and analysis of the river's water chemistry and quality.

Aquatic Plant Project Report
Studies identifying and documenting aquatic plant life from Holter Dam to Cascade.
Macroinvertebrate Reports - Missouri River
Annual studies on the viability and health of insect life in the Missouri River.
  • 2020 Missouri River Macroinvertebrate Study
  • 2018 Missouri River Macroinvertebrate Study
  • 2015-2017 Baseline Macroinvertebrate Monitoring
Macroinvertebrate Reports - Smith River
Studies examining aquatic insect populations in the Smith River (2016, 2017, 2018, and 2024).
  • 2024 Smith River Open House Poster (2016-2024 Data Summary)
  • 2018 Smith River Macroinvertebrate Study
  • 2016-2017 Smith River Macroinvertebrate Study
  • 2016 Smith River Macroinvertebrate Study
Water Quality Reports
Analysis of the river's water chemistry and quality over time.
  • 2023 Missouri River Water Quality Report
  • 2022 Missouri River Water Quality Report
  • 2021 Missouri River Water Quality Report
  • 2019 Missouri River Water Quality Report
Missouri River Island Reports
Noxious and invasive weed management reports for Missouri River islands.
  • 2025 Missouri River Island Noxious Weeds Report
  • 2024 Missouri River Island Report
Noxious Weed Grant Presentations
Annual hearing presentations for the Noxious Weed Trust Fund grants.
  • 2025 UMOWA NWTF Hearing Presentation
  • 2023 UMOWA NWTF Hearing Presentation
  • 2022 UMOWA NWTF Hearing Presentation
Streambank & Other Reports
Streambank erosion assessments and other scientific reports.
  • BEHI Streambank Erosion Overview
  • Great Backyard Bird Count 2025
Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Fish Study
Collaborative studies with MT FWP on trout populations.
  • 2020 Craig and Cascade Trout Population Estimate Figures

Thank You

Your membership, support and generous contributions have made possible the projects we have undertaken and your continued support will assure our future success.