Water on the Move! Something Huge in Montana Just Got Flowing Again

Some call it the "Lifeline of the Hi-Line." And its importance to thousands of Montanans cannot be understated.

So, when there was siphon failure, it's understandable why so many citizens were in a panic. It took an intense effort, but Wednesday, June 25, authorities with the St. Mary Diversion Dam Project announced:  “Water is on the move! This morning we started up the St. Mary Diversion Dam in Babb, MT, and by this afternoon, water should be flowing through the newly replaced St. Mary Siphons!"

After months of hardcore teamwork and a whole lot of waiting, the Milk River Project is hitting a major milestone.

Also from the Milk River Project press release: "What a journey it’s been to get to this point. From emergency response to full rebuild, we’ve had an incredible team of partners, contractors, and supporters pushing every step of the way. THANK YOU to everyone who helped make this happen.

"Let’s just say… water is finally going where it’s supposed to!"

The Milk River Project is beyond remarkable. With over a century of successful operation, this engineering feat diverts water from the St. Mary River on the Blackfeet Reservation, flowing through northern Montana and Glacier National Park, and across southern Alberta, Canada. This project is a testament to the intricate canals, siphons, and diversions designed for a seamless flow of water.

The Milk River Project is essential to fulfill Montana’s water demands, catering to eight irrigation districts, Reclamation pump contracts, private contracts, the Blackfeet and Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, and other communities along the Milk River. The project has created numerous recreational opportunities for the surrounding inhabitants, contributing to the ecosystem’s prosperity and wildlife habitats.

Much more can be learned about the Milk River Project and its vital contributions to Montana's Hi-Line and beyond can be learned here.