Montana DNRC: Enhancing Water Resource Management with Real-Time Hydrologic Data

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) is dedicated to delivering high-quality hydrologic data to support the effective management, administration, and beneficial use of Montana’s water resources.

The Importance of Real-Time Streamflow Measurements

Accurate, real-time measurements of streamflow are essential for effective water management and distribution. The Montana State Water Plan (2015) has emphasized the necessity for the state to develop a comprehensive network of real-time stream gages on streams and tributaries not currently monitored by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

By expanding Montana’s existing streamflow monitoring network, DNRC aims to:

• Enhance Water Supply Management: Improve Montanans’ ability to manage water supplies effectively to meet growing demands.
• Plan for Climate Variability: Enable better planning and response strategies for climate variability and its impacts on water resources.

Through these initiatives, DNRC is committed to ensuring that Montana has the necessary tools and data to sustain its valuable water resources for future generations.

Technology: Leveraging Esri’s ArcGIS

As an Esri Silver Partner, GCS utilized Esri’s ArcGIS to develop the Stream and Gage Explorer (StAGE) application, which includes a variety of powerful features:

• Selectable Base Maps: Users can choose from multiple base map options for enhanced visualization.
• Symbolized Gage Layers: Access to symbolized, selectable gage layers with data sourced from USGS and DNRC.
• Interactive Map Symbology: Easy access to interactive map symbology that communicates vital information, including site name, site ID, and hyperlinks to detailed reporting pages.
• Detailed Report Pages: Comprehensive report pages featuring stage, discharge, and temperature readings over the past seven days.
• Data Downloading Capabilities: A user-friendly data downloader that allows users to query and download gage data and statistics as needed.

Benefits of StAGE Implementation

GCS was selected by DNRC to develop StAGE in 2020. Upon completion, the application empowered water users and managers to make informed distribution decisions based on real-time data. Key benefits include:

• Enhanced Water Resource Planning: Improved capabilities for short- and long-term water resource planning, including developing basin water budgets and evaluating local and regional water supplies.
• Opportunities for Increased Water Storage: Facilitated evaluations of potential opportunities for enhanced water storage.
• Support for Local Drought Management Plans: Provided critical support to Montanans in developing and implementing local drought management strategies.
• Public Awareness: Promoted public awareness of Montana’s valuable water resources, fostering community engagement and stewardship.

Client Testimonial: Success Stories from GCS Customers

“This is a great example of connecting water management professionals, recreationists, and the people of Montana to valuable data they need on daily basis, whether for work or play.” – DNRC Director Amanda Kaster

About Montana DNRC Water Resources Division: Managing Montana’s Vital Water Resources

The Water Resources Division is tasked with the comprehensive management and allocation of Montana’s water resources. By effectively coordinating the development and utilization of the state’s water supply, the Division aims to:

• Protect Existing Water Uses: Safeguard current water uses while promoting sustainable practices.
• Ensure Future Water Supply: Promote adequate future supplies for various needs, including domestic, industrial, municipal, agricultural, recreational, and other beneficial uses.
• Conserve Water for Ecosystems: Support the conservation of water for wildlife and aquatic life.

Organizational Structure

The Division is organized into five specialized bureaus:

1. Water Sciences Bureau: Focuses on research and data analysis related to water resources.
2. Water Rights Bureau: Manages the legal framework surrounding water rights and entitlements.
3. Water Operations Bureau: Oversees the operational aspects of water management.
4. State Water Projects Bureau: Coordinates state-funded water projects and initiatives.
5. Planning, Implementation, and Communication Bureau: Engages in strategic planning and outreach efforts.

Regional Offices

The Water Resources Division operates eight regional offices located in:

• Kalispell
• Missoula
• Helena
• Bozeman
• Glasgow
• Havre
• Billings
• Lewistown

These regional offices serve as satellite hubs for the entire Water Resources Division, acting as the most direct link to stakeholders and the public. They play a crucial role in facilitating communication, gathering feedback, and ensuring community engagement in water resource management.