In recent years, the Gallatin River has experienced algae blooms that experts say have been beyond what happens during normal natural conditions. Contributing factors are lower and warmer flows caused by climate change as well as elevated levels of nitrates and phosphorous from human developments, like Big Sky. Citizens concerned about water quality in the state say recent laws passed by the state legislature and signed by the governor have weakened regulations aimed at minimizing pollution from both human development and agricultural sources. Photo courtesy Gallatin River Task Force
In recent years, the Gallatin River has experienced algae blooms that experts say have been beyond what happens during normal natural conditions. Contributing factors are lower and warmer flows caused by climate change as well as elevated levels of nitrates and phosphorous from human developments, like Big Sky. Citizens concerned about water quality in the state say recent laws passed by the state legislature and signed by the governor have weakened regulations aimed at minimizing pollution from both human development and agricultural sources. Photo courtesy Gallatin River Task Force