Water Supply Update and Spring 2025 River Forecast
We are nearing peek snow load for the season in the headwaters of the Milk and St Mary Basin, with conditions currently near 70% of average. This is similar to 2024 conditions and might be problematic for sustained late season natural flow. In the absence of “Letter of Intent” water, irrigators will be entirely reliant on natural flow allocation (maximum 25% of Milk River natural flow under International Joint Commission Treaty) through this season. Additional efforts are being made to closely monitor water use and protect the aquatic environment.
The winter weather has been favorable for uninterrupted construction of the St Mary Siphon Replacement Project NW Construction and Pro Pipe have installed all pipe on both sides of the bridge up to the inlet and outlet. Installation of the pipe along the bridge is ongoing with the last sections to be installed will be the direct ties to the inlet and outlet.
The first significant placement of concrete for the inlet was on March 18th. Concrete placements will continue over the next month to complete the inlet, before transitioning to the outlet structure.
Sletten Construction is nearing completion of the bridge construction, with final pieces to be installed post pipe installation.
St Mary River restoration will be complete by the end of April.
The good news is that construction activities are ahead of schedule, and the anticipated completion date is early July 2025.
Until then, we will continue to be fully reliant on natural flows only to sustain conditions on the Milk River. Currently spring flows with localized runoff and a return of flow from the South Fork Milk River are near 3m3/s. With warmer temperatures in the long range forecast we may see that increase though we will be entirely reliant on consistent rainfall this spring to maintain similar or increased flow volumes. Soil moisture has largely stabilized to near or slightly above average levels in the watershed.
Recreational activities – conditions can change quickly depending on rain events, the Milk River is not recommended for paddling when flows are lower than about 12m3/s, as additional hazards are exposed and navigation is often hazardous. Access is limited and safety will be compromised. There are shorter reaches available in some locations that are enjoyable for tubing even with only natural flow including near and within Writing on Stone Provincial Park. Signage is located at all public access points. When diversion is initiated in July, approximately 16-18m3/s of water will be available for paddle activities. Always check conditions prior to making your trip arrangements and understand your limitations and plan for a safe and enjoyable paddle.
