About Us
Starting in 2010, Montana residents, business owners, sportsmen and sportswomen, and conservationists joined forces under the banner of Montanans for Healthy Rivers to identify and conserve the last, best free-flowing rivers in Montana.
Through a decade of public outreach over 3,000 Montanans and more than 1,000 Montana businesses have voiced support for these new Wild and Scenic River designations.
Reflecting on over a decade
of progress
Since our conception in 2010, we have dedicated ourselves to the vision of protecting Montana’s most cherished rivers through the Montana Headwaters Legacy Act. This legislation sought to secure Wild & Scenic designation for some of our state’s most iconic waterways, safeguarding their free-flowing character and ecological integrity for future generations. In 2024, the Montana Headwaters Legacy Act reached further than ever before. Through tireless advocacy, grassroots organizing, and collaborative partnerships, we built a broad coalition of supporters, elevating the importance of river protection across Montana and beyond. We engaged with communities, worked alongside landowners and river users, and ensured the Act reflected the values of the people who call this state home. While the legislation did not ultimately pass, its legacy is one of profound impact. We sparked meaningful conversations about the value of our rivers, united diverse voices to champion conservation, and laid the groundwork for future efforts to protect Montana’s lifeblood—our waterways. This is not the end of our story. The progress we made serves as a testament to what is possible when we work together for something greater than ourselves. With gratitude for the journey so far and renewed determination, we remain committed to the vision of protecting Montana’s rivers—because they are essential to the land, the people, and the legacy we hold dear. Thank you to everyone who stood with us on this journey. We will continue to fight for a future where Montana’s rivers remain wild, free, and thriving.
American Rivers
American Rivers protects wild rivers, restores damaged rivers, and conserves clean water for people and nature.
Scott Bosse | Northern Rockies Regional Director
Lisa Ronald | Western Montana Associate Conservation Director
Mike Fiebig | Southwest River Protection Program Director
KynsLee Scott | Contractor
American Whitewater
Protecting and restoring America's whitewater rivers and enhancing opportunities to enjoy them safely.
Kevin Colburn | National Stewardship Director
Gallatin River Task Force
To partner with our greater community to lead conservation and inspire stewardship of the Gallatin River Watershed.
Kristin Gardner | Chief Executive and Science Officer
Greater Yellowstone Coalition
People protecting the lands, waters, and wildlife of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, now and for future generations.
Charles Drimal | Director of Conservation
Erin Steva | Montana Conservation Associate
Our steering committee organizations and members
