New App Helps Track Drought Conditions Effecting Fish in Montana

Recent rain showers across Montana have been refreshing, but they are a "drop in the bucket" when it comes to alleviating some of the drought conditions in Montana.  Towns across the state continue to monitor water conditions, and in certain cases, restricting water usage.

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Most of us are probably thinking our lawns drying up or even worrying about farmers and ranchers that feel the crunch of lack of water for crops and livestock herds.  Those concerns also go to our wildlife in Montana, specifically fish populations in the state.  A new app is now helping Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks (MFWP) monitor flows affecting fish now and in the future.

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New App Helps Track Drought Conditions Effecting Fish in Montana

Troutcast is a new tool just released this month in Montana that hopes to provide "seasonal and long-term forecasts to inform proactive decision-making for fisheries management, drought response, and recreational angling opportunities" according to MFWP.

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The app was developed in conjunction with several agencies in the state and across the country including the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Montana State University (MSU), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Integrated Drought Information System (NOAA-NIDIS), and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (MFWP).

Montana Anglers Will Also Benefit from the New Troutcast App

David Schmetterling, Fisheries Research Coordinator for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks said the Troutcast app could be "revolutionary" in the state's ability to communicate trends in fish populations, manage angling opportunities, and inform instream flows.

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The app can also benefit anglers in the state and will also be an invaluable tool for outfitters to help track "streamflow and temperature conditions with trout population responses, enabling proactive, science-based decision-making that supports recreational opportunities."  Learn more about the app here.