Sponsor
Ryan Zinke
Representative · R-MT
Representative · R-MT
The bill improves summer predictability of Flathead Lake to benefit recreation, local economies, and shoreline infrastructure, at the cost of reduced reservoir flexibility, potential downstream water and power impacts in other seasons, and higher federal implementation burdens.
Residents, businesses, and recreation users on and around Flathead Lake will get more predictable lake levels from June 15–September 15, supporting boating, tourism, waterfront access, and local economic activity.
Homeowners and small business owners with shoreline property will see reduced risk of sudden drawdowns or flooding during the peak season because the lake will be operated within a narrow summer elevation band, helping protect private docks and shoreline infrastructure.
Utilities, irrigation users, and downstream communities could face reduced water availability or constrained reservoir operations in other seasons because mandated releases and withholding at Hungry Horse Reservoir prioritize a summer elevation band.
Local governments, rural communities, and regional emergency responders may lose flexibility to respond to floods, droughts, or other ecosystem needs because operating to a strict 1-foot summer band limits the Secretary's ability to manage systemwide conditions.
Federal managers and Bureau of Reclamation staff could face increased administrative and operational burdens and costs to implement and enforce the mandatory operations.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Requires the Interior Secretary to keep Flathead Lake between 2,892 and 2,893 ft MSL from June 15–September 15 each year using Hungry Horse Reservoir releases or inputs.
Official title: To direct the Secretary of the Interior to ensure full pool levels of Flathead Lake in Montana in accordance with certain requirements, and for other purposes.
Introduced January 23, 2025 by Ryan Zinke · Last progress January 23, 2025
Requires the Secretary of the Interior to manage Flathead Lake's water level each year between June 15 and September 15 so the lake remains at or above 2,892 feet mean sea level and at or below 2,893 feet mean sea level by supplying water from Hungry Horse Reservoir as needed and releasing excess water downstream. The direction fixes a narrow one-foot seasonal operating band for lake elevation during the summer recreation and ecological period.