Low Montana rivers could mean more hazards for floaters

Montana — River levels across Montana are running lower than usual for this point in the year, which could change what people find on the water as the season goes on.

The U.S. Geological Survey says the Clark Fork River in Missoula is "Below Normal" and the Yellowstone River in Billings as "Much Below Normal." For people who spent Memorial Day on the water, conditions still appeared manageable for now.

Josh Schulze, a rafter, said his time on the Clark Fork went smoothly.

"[The] water was great. It was fast, but not too muddy or anything like that. We fished a little. We swam a little, had a nice time. But I think Clark Fork [peaked] the first week of June, so in a normal year, we're actually probably still a little bit early, but it seems like we're already on the way back down. I don't think it's getting any higher than it is now," said Schulze.

That matched state data released in March that showed many parts of Montana had snow levels more than 20 percent below normal. Because much of the state's river water comes from snowmelt, that could create issues later in the season.

Schulze said people floating later on could start noticing more shallow spots and tougher launches.

"It's definitely gonna be something to keep your eye on. Some sections where you're used to floating over it, you might be bumping and especially for the tube floaters, might be hitting bottom a little more than usual. Even the rafters, some of the boat landings, it might be a little bit further to back down the ramp to get the raft in the water," said Schulze.

As river levels fall, more rocks and other hazards could become exposed and damage boats or tubes. Anyone heading onto the river is urged to watch for hazards and wear a life jacket.