Monitoring River Health in the Upper Clark Fork Basin

The Clark Fork Coalition (CFC), in collaboration with the Watershed Restoration Coalition (WRC), partnered with GCS to develop a geodatabase aimed at monitoring and improving the health of the Upper Clark Fork Basin tributaries near Missoula, Montana.

Data Collection for Conservation Projects

The project focused on collecting assessment and monitoring data to support the planning and execution of various aquatic and riparian conservation efforts, including:

  • Flow restoration
  • Fish passage improvements
  • Grazing management
  • Other vital watershed restoration projects

This comprehensive data collection was crucial for guiding environmental conservation and restoration projects across the Upper Clark Fork Basin.

Geodatabase Development for Efficient Data Sharing

CFC and WRC required a user-friendly geodatabase to store and share the extensive data collected from numerous monitoring sites across the basin. To streamline this process, GCS developed a map portal that enabled both new and experienced users to:

  • Easily locate data collection sites across the basin
  • Quickly identify the type and characteristics of the collected data
  • Efficiently share and utilize the data for conservation planning

ArcGIS Enterprise Deployment

To support this effort, ArcGIS Enterprise was deployed, providing a robust platform for managing and visualizing the geospatial data needed for ongoing river health monitoring and conservation project planning.

About the Clark Fork Coalition: Protecting the Waters of the Clark Fork Basin

Founded in 1985, the Clark Fork Coalition (CFC) is dedicated to healing and protecting the vital waters of the Clark Fork Basin. For nearly four decades, CFC has been committed to ensuring the cleanliness, health, and restoration of rivers and waterways that are essential for the people, fish, and wildlife that depend on them.

Community Engagement for River Health

The Clark Fork Coalition actively organizes and educates local communities, encouraging them to take part in caring for the river. Through hands-on programs, advocacy, and education, CFC empowers citizens to contribute to the long-term health of the Clark Fork Basin’s waterways.

Mission: Clean Water and Healthy Rivers

CFC’s mission is to safeguard clean water for all, ensuring that the rivers within the Clark Fork Basin thrive for future generations of people, fish, and wildlife. By focusing on restoration, conservation, and community involvement, the Clark Fork Coalition plays a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance of this important watershed.

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