The Upper Yellowstone RiverNET program, now in its seventh year, provides critical real-time insights into the health of the Upper Yellowstone River Watershed. Healthy watersheds benefit our physical and mental well-being, our fish and wildlife, and our economy. So when we care about the health of our ecosystems - like the Upper Yellowstone River Watershed - we thrive together.

We operate RiverNET and our related programs out of our field station in Paradise Valley. This year, our monitoring efforts focus on seven priority sites along three critical tributaries of the Yellowstone River: Big Creek, Mill Creek, and Pine Creek. These sites encompass a variety of land use practices and diverse ecological habitats, representing the rich tapestry of Park County's environment. Key diagnostics include:

Songbirds: Monitoring songbird populations helps us gauge the overall health of our ecosystems, directly impacting local biodiversity. The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem serves as a summer home to many migratory birds from around the world. Understanding which birds settle where during the warm months enables us to replicate these habitats at other sites along Paradise Valley. Healthy bird populations also control insect pests and pollinate plants, benefiting our agriculture and gardens.

Soil Moisture: By understanding soil moisture levels, we can better manage water usage for agriculture, ensuring that crops receive adequate water while conserving this precious resource. This is essential for sustaining our farming community, especially during the dry months of August and September.

Water Temperature: Monitoring water temperature is essential for protecting our local fish populations, particularly trout, which are crucial for recreational fishing and tourism. Healthy fish populations are vital for maintaining the Yellowstone River's reputation as a world-class fishing destination, directly supporting our local economy. Healthy fish populations also support the food web, benefiting other wildlife and maintaining ecological balance throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

Water Discharge: Monitoring water discharge helps us predict and manage flood risks, protecting homes, farms, and infrastructure. It also ensures that there is a reliable supply of water for irrigation, drinking, and recreational activities.

Aquatic Insects: These insects are bioindicators of water quality. Monitoring them allows us to detect pollution early and take action to keep our water clean, which is crucial for the health and safety of our residents and wildlife. Again, this protects our world-class fishing industry. Vegetation Height: Understanding vegetation structure helps us maintain habitats for local wildlife, supports soil health, and prevents erosion. This is important for preserving the scenic beauty and ecological function of our landscapes.

Vegetation Biomass: Measuring the amount of plant life helps us assess the productivity of our ecosystems, which is important for carbon sequestration and combating climate change. It also supports local agriculture by ensuring that our lands remain fertile and productive.

Habitat Mapping: Detailed habitat maps allow us to plan effective conservation strategies and ensure that our diverse ecosystems are protected. This benefits the community by preserving natural spaces for recreation, tourism, and education.

Trout Monitoring: Trout are a key species in our rivers, and their health reflects the overall health of the aquatic ecosystem. Monitoring trout populations supports recreational fishing, which is an essential cultural and economic activity in Park County.

Essential Components of RiverNET:

Community Science: Brings the community together to participate in the collection and use of critical data for conservation decision-making, especially on private agricultural lands.

Tributary-Level Monitoring: Fills data gaps by focusing on key diagnostics of river health at the tributary level where human impacts occur.

Data-Sharing: Utilizes a cloud-based platform and mobile app designed to provide access to standardized, transparent, and repeatable data.

Predictions: Monitors diagnostics are streamed into short-term forecasts and scenario planning and prevention of drought, flood, and land-use impacts.