Year 2002 Watershed Stewardship Award recipients

• Bitter Root Water Forum
• Ron Pierce, a fishery biologist with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

The Bitter Root Water Forum was honored on July 9th at 11:00 AM on at the state Capitol in Helena for their local leadership and effective efforts to inspire and coordinate cooperative community involvement in decisions that affect the well being of the Bitterroot River watershed. Their accomplishments are far too numerous to list here but a few examples of their work include: coordinated with state, federal and local agencies to identify and resolve surface and groundwater quality issues in the basin; encouraged legislation to temporarily close the Bitterroot Basin to new water use applications so as to help preserve water for existing uses; developed a plan to protect groundwater resources in the valley; conducted watershed assessments and developed restoration plans key tributaries to the Bitterroot River; developed and offered neighborhood stewardship workshops; continue to conduct monthly education programs at the Bitterroot Public Library and are presently working on a “citizens guide to understanding the Bitterroot watershed.” The Bitterroot Water Forum is a shining example of local involvement in watershed stewardship and their effective leadership has resulted in measurable benefits to their community. It was an honor to give them the recognition that they deserve.

Ron Pierce was recognized for his quiet leadership and stream restoration work in the Blackfoot River watershed over the past 15 years. The Blackfoot watershed story is considered by many to be the flagship example of citizen involvement and accomplishment. Certainly no one individual can take credit for the Blackfoot watershed successes; however, it is locally acknowledged that Ron is one of the essential ingredients. Ron’s unpretentious personality, enthusiasm and commitment have helped inspire others to become involved with the Blackfoot effort. He organizes kids fishing days, conducts field and classroom lectures to valley citizens and school groups at all levels, and helps organize professional training workshops for agency professionals and watershed leaders. Ron has helped implement and complete over 300 miles of restoration on 38 streams. Many of these streams provide important spawning and rearing habitat for native bull and cutthroat trout. Former Secretary of Interior, Bruce Babbitt called the Blackfoot effort “the best example of bull trout restoration within the range of the species.” Ron is clearly deserving of this special recognition.


Congratulations!