Montana’s Yellowstone Rivers Get Wild and Scenic Protection: Madison and Gallatin Segments Designated

The “Greater Yellowstone Recreation Enhancement And Tourism Act” is essentially a big conservation move for some of Montana’s most famous rivers. This bill officially adds specific stretches of the Gallatin, Madison, and several smaller creeks (Hyalite, Cabin Creek) to the national Wild and Scenic Rivers system. The goal is to lock in federal protection for about 98 miles of water, safeguarding them for clean water, wildlife, and, critically, the massive recreation economy they support.

The Great Outdoors Gets Protected Status

For anyone who fishes, rafts, or just enjoys the outdoors in the Greater Yellowstone area, this bill is a major win for long-term access and conservation. The designation covers about 42 miles of the Madison River and nearly 40 miles of the Gallatin River, labeling them as “recreational rivers” or “scenic rivers.” This status is intended to prevent major industrial development or dam construction that could ruin the natural flow and quality of the water. The bill explicitly notes that these rivers are essential for the region’s $1.4 billion tourism industry, ensuring that the scenic backdrop for your next vacation or fishing trip is federally protected.

Water Rights and Private Property: The Fine Print

While this is a public lands bill, it has some important caveats for private citizens. First, the designation does not change existing water rights. If you’re a farmer or rancher relying on water from these rivers, the bill explicitly states that existing federal rights, Tribal rights, and state-held water rights are preserved. Second, if your private land borders one of these newly protected segments, the federal government cannot buy your property or acquire rights to it unless you voluntarily agree to sell (Sec. 3). This is a crucial detail that respects private property ownership while still providing river protection.

The Energy Carve-Out: Dams Stay Put

Here’s where the bill gets specific about infrastructure. The Madison and Hebgen Dams, which generate hydropower, are located outside the newly designated segments. The bill makes it crystal clear that this new protection will not interfere with the operation, licensing, or relicensing of these two existing dams by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). In fact, the bill allows for the addition of new hydropower generation facilities at the existing Hebgen Dam. However, it draws a hard line: any expansion of the Hebgen or Madison Developments is prohibited from extending into the newly designated river segments (Sec. 3). This means current energy operations are safe, but future expansion that might encroach on the protected river segments is blocked.

What It Means for the Everyday Person

If you’re a recreational user, this means the quality of the water and the scenery you enjoy are now secured by federal law. If you’re a local business owner, this designation supports the tourism economy that relies on these resources. If you’re a landowner, your existing property rights and water rights are affirmed, but you should be aware that the adjacent public land is now under a higher level of conservation management. The bill acknowledges that this protection comes with a cost, authorizing necessary funding to the Secretary of Agriculture to manage these new segments, ensuring the conservation goals are actually met on the ground.