Published by BS Central

515 2nd Ave. S • Glasgow, MT 59230

406-228-4558 • fax: 406-228-4578
bscentral@nemont.net

Preparedness Vo
l. 12
, Tu
esda 2 3
y, April 11, 20

Brandon Bigelbach of the National Weather
Service in Glasgow (at left) gave a briefing this past
Thursday to a roomful of tri-county officials (Phillips,
Roosevelt and Valley) who will be prepping for an
upcoming flood. But we’ve been there done that on
numerous occasions as Dick Britzman, the self-
proclaimed “old Milk River Rat”, said. Farming and
ranching south of Glasgow along the Milk River,
along with being a former Valley County Sheriff,
he’s dealt with lots of flooding over the years. As
for that Thursday update, things are a-changing
rapidly as we just got off the phone with Rick Seiler
(11:00 this morning). A few details inside.

Important meeting this Thursday night

By Mike Brandt
I urge everyone to attend the
Scottie Field Recharged Community
Session that will be held Thursday
night at the Glasgow High School
Auditorium at 7 p.m.
The meeting is to talk about the
Scottie Football Field, among other
things, which is the track and a
possible softball field.
First off is the football field.
If you played football for Glasgow
then you know how bad that field is
to play on. It’s considered the worst
football field in Montana. GHS and
the football coaching staff would
love to see a new field. The best way
to go is artificial turf. That is a lot
easier to maintain than a grass field,
which would mean no watering and
mowing.
The turf field is more economic
and nicer to play on. Baker has one
and the Scotties do play on that field
every other year. Even Winifred, a
class C school, has a turf field.
Also the track needs
upgrading. This track is used a lot
every spring. Glasgow has its meet
and the Top Ten every year. Saco-
Whitewater and Hinsdale have
their meets on the track. Then
there’s the District 2B and 3C meet
and every other year the Northern
B meet.
continued inside
 The Rising Recharged
of the
continued from front
Another field that GHS needs is a softball field.
Murky Milk There is plenty of land where this field could be built.
Currently the Scotties use the Jeff Jurgens Field until
Hmmm.... might have to check out the air little league baseball starts. Then the Scotties move down
conditioning on the route today! to Sullivan Park. But what do the Scotties do when those
Snow melt runoff will continue to bring flooding fields flood? This spring could be one of those years.
across Northeast Montana in areas north of the Missouri The meeting is to discuss the reasons behind the
River. The Milk River continues to rise across the region effort; public revealing of professional plans; projected
and flood warnings for the Milk River are likely in the cost and time-line of the project; and a question and
near future. answer session.
It should make for a good drink for them catfish! Kris Koessl with A&E Design out of Billings and
Today: Sunny, with a high near 71. South southwest wind Jared Petrino with FieldTurf - Calhoun Manufacturing
11 to 20 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon. Winds and U.S. Installation of Wyoming will be at the meeting.
could gust as high as 26 mph. So, I strongly encourage and urge you to attend
Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 33. Breezy, with this meeting.
a west northwest wind 17 to 24 mph, with gusts as high If you have any questions, then ask a football player
as 37 mph. about the field.
Wednesday: Partly sunny, with a high near 48. West
northwest wind 13 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29
mph.
Snowmelt: too late, too fast
Wednesday Night: A 30 percent chance of rain after
That headline is
midnight. Cloudy, with a low around 32. Northwest wind how Brad Michelson
around 9 mph becoming northeast after midnight. of the National
Thursday: Rain likely before 9am, then rain, possibly Weather Service in
mixed with snow between 9am and 3pm, then rain after Glasgow, shortly
3pm. High near 41. East northeast wind 10 to 14 mph, before 11:30 this
with gusts as high as 22 mph. Chance of precipitation is morning, summed
80%. Little or no snow accumulation expected.
up some changes
Thursday Night: Rain likely, possibly mixed with snow from last Thursday’s
before midnight, then rain likely between midnight and
3am, then snow likely after 3am. Mostly cloudy, with a low
meeting regarding
around 30. North northeast wind 8 to 11 mph. Chance of flooding that is going
precipitation is 70%. New snow accumulation of less than to occur.
a half inch possible. Using data from
Friday: Snow likely before 9am, then rain likely. Mostly the Missouri Basin River Forecast Center based out of
cloudy, with a high near 43. North wind around 9 mph. Kansas City, Glasgow can expect minor flooding (25
Chance of precipitation is 60%. New snow accumulation feet) by this Thursday afternoon, and possibly about
of less than a half inch possible.
six inches below (give or take) major flooding which is
Friday Night: A 20 percent chance of rain before midnight. expected to crest Saturday afternoon.
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. West northwest wind
Another emergency response team meeting is
around 9 mph.
scheduled for this Thursday
Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 52. West wind 7 to 10
“We’ll let it stew and we’ll se where we are sitting at
mph.
that time,”Michelson said.
Saturday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 29. West
Thanks to the National Weather Service and the
wind 8 to 10 mph becoming southeast after midnight.
entire crew up on the hill for the awesome job they are
Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 59. East southeast
doing in monitoring the situation.
wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Yep, we’re once again going to see water coming
Sunday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 33. down from the hills and lots of it. Just remember: Turn
Monday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 61. around, don’t drown!
 BUZZIFIEDS
BUZZ
STORAGE UNITS FOR RENT IN ST. MARIE: 4’x6’ $24; 10’x12’ $65;
12’x25’ $95. CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION 406-270-2522
BUZZ
FOR RENT 3 bedroom, 1 bath condo in St. Marie. Single car garage,
washer & dryer. Tenant pays gas, electric & water. $600/mo. CALL
HELLAND AGENCY 406-228-2114. hellandagencyinc.com
BUZZ
GLASGOW SCHOOLS: Maintenance Coordinator: Competitive
wage (DOE). Irle School Secretary ($16.58-$18.91 DOE). Route Bus
Driver - $22.34 - $23.29/hr. (DOE). Substitutes needed in all areas. For
more information and to apply go to: www.glasgow.k12.mt.us and click
on employment tab. FOR QUESTIONS CALL 406-228-2406. (EQUAL
OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER)
BUZZ
POSITION VACANCY NOTICE Glasgow Mosquito District has 1 full
time seasonal position open for the 2023 spray season. **Starting wage:
$16.00** A Laborer is needed for mosquito control. Applicants must be
18 years or older and have a valid driver’s license. Looking for applicants
that are willing to work outdoors and are able to lift up to 65lbs. Position
will start late May early June and wrap up by the end of August or early
September. Work shift will be the evening mosquito fogging and control.
Generic Applications available online at the Montana Job Service
website under employment applications or by stopping the Valley County
Extension Office. APPLICATIONS CAN BE DROPPED OFF AT THE
EXTENSION OFFICE WITHIN THE VALLEY COUNTY COURTHOUSE.
BUZZ
VALLEY COUNTY REFUSE DISTRICT #1 has an opening for an
Operator. Performs a variety of routine and complex semi-skilled tasks
in sanitary landfill operations. Must have High school diploma or GED.
Valid Montana driver’s license. Applications need to be turned in at the
landfill by April 7th at 4:00 PM and the application can be found on the
Valley County website or you can pick on up at the landfill. ANY OTHER
QUESTIONS CALL 406-228-4730 Valley County is an equal opportunity
employer
BUZZ
SUNNYSIDE GOLF COURSE is seeking a Head Bartender. Duties
include but not limited to scheduling of bartenders and clubhouse staff,
Ordering of All Beverages, Beer and Liquor, Ordering of regularly stocked
food items, answering phone calls and booking tee times, Schedule
and Organize all Parties and Weddings and Keeping the Clubhouse
and surroundings neat, clean and stocked as needed. This is a full time
seasonal position wage dependent on experience. We will also be hiring
part time bartenders for the season. PLEASE CONTACT DAN DAUBNER
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND AN APPLICATION 406-230-2539
BUZZ
THE WOOD RESTAURANT has an opening for a Server. Ensure that
all guests are served to the hotel’s standard in the restaurant areas and
room service. Display highest standards of hospitality at all times. Take
orders for, prepare (where applicable) and serve food and beverages
to guests as per the hotels standards in a friendly, timely and efficient
manner. Wage $12.00 per hour. PLEASE STOP BY AND PICK UP AN
APPLICATION.
BUZZ
POSITION OPENING Opening for a Full Time Motor Vehicle Clerk
at the Valley County Treasurer’s office. Position requires computer
skills, ability to perform clerical duties in processing of documents and
receipts, and ability to work with the public and co-workers. Pay starts
at $15.00 hr or higher DOE. Full Benefit Package. FOR A COMPLETE
JOB DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE
VALLEY COUNTY TREASURER’S OFFICE AT 501 COURT SQUARE
#3, GLASGOW, MT 59230 OR CALL 406-228-6230. Position is open
until filled.
HELP WANTED Plumbing & Heating fields. Labor, possible opportunity
for apprenticeship. Experience preferred but not mandatory. Valid driver’s
license, must be able to lift heavy objects, and maneuver in tight spaces.
CALL LEE RIDDICK FOR MORE INFO 406-228-4753
BUZZ
D&G SPORTS & WESTERN: 3 positions available. Sales Clerk in clothing
department full or part time. Clothing Manager in clothing department.
Sporting Goods Sales Clerk. $14-20/hr. DOE. APPLY AT D&G SPORTS
& WESTERN. ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE CALL (406) 228-9363
BUZZ
POSITION AVAILABLE Remote Blade Operator Position for Hinsdale
Area. The Valley County Road Department is looking to hire temporary/
seasonal blade operator for the Hinsdale area. Information and details
can be obtained stopping by or calling the VALLEY COUNTY ROAD
DEPARTMENT AT 406-228-4233 ask for Todd Young Valley County Road
superintendent or Curt Storlie Asst road foreman.
BUZZ
FORT PECK COMMUNITY FCU: Currently accepting applications for a
Membership Representative. Duties include performing transactions for
the membership, setting up new accounts, and some back-office duties.
Position may require some travel between the Fort Peck office and the
Branch office in Glasgow. Wage DOE. APPLICATIONS CAN BE PICKED
UP OR DROPPED OFF AT FORT PECK OR GLASGOW, OR MAILED TO
FORT PECK CREDIT UNION, P.O. BOX 214, FORT PECK, MT 59223.
BUZZ
VALLEY VIEW HOME is looking for a new Full Time Housekeeper! If
you are interested in this position and looking for financial stability and
employment with staff that truly work like a team PLEASE COME BY
VALLEY VIEW HOME AND PICK UP AN APPLICATION
BUZZ
MILK RIVER INC. WORK SUMMARY: Responsible to the Executive
Director for clerical work needed in all areas of Milk River, Inc. This
includes, but is not limited to, filing all information in the individual’s main
files, typing letters, forms and reports, making copies for group homes, etc.
Answer and direct phone calls to appropriate staff and individuals. Greet
customers and assist them with laundry, ironing, can, etc. Empty money
from pop machines and prepare for deposit. Balance petty cash boxes.
Prepare deposits. Attend monthly staff meetings and weekly management
administration meetings. Work with Administrative Assistant in preparing
policies and chair the Safety Committee. Position is PT, but will work into
FT. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: At least a high school
diploma or equivalent. Must have the ability to perform secretarial duties,
be competent in the use of office equipment (i.e. copier, computer, printer,
typewriter, and calculator) and have the ability to work with the public, as
well as DD individuals. Must be self-motivated and organized.
BUZZ
JOIN A FUN TEAM! THOMPSON & SONS Looking to hire a Mechanic.
Pay is competitive, wages DOE. PICK UP APPLICATION AT THE SHOP
OR CALL 406-228-4801
BUZZ
MILK RIVER INC. is looking for a Night Shift Direct Support Specialist.
CALL 406-228-8412 FOR MORE INFO
BUZZ
VALLEY VIEW HOME is looking for CNAs for day shift. High paid wage
for CNAs with long term care experience. We can train and certify anyone
who wants to become a CNA as well. Starting wage for trainees is $15.00
hourly. PLEASE SWING BY VALLEY VIEW HOME ADMIN OFFICE FOR
AN APPLICATION AND JOIN OUR TEAM!
BUZZ
VALLEY VIEW HOME is looking for a new full time Activities Aide to work with our
residents on daily activities and outings. As an Aide you will be joining a unique
and awesome department that works like a family while working with you on
building your schedule. VISIT VALLEY VIEW HOME FOR AN APPLICATION
 BS
CENTRAL
&
FMDH EMS

Home of the BS Buzz

FIRST AID, AED
CPR TRAINING
FMDH EMTs are hosting a
community Heartsaver CPR /
AED / First Aid class!
Get Certified in First Aid,
CPR & AED for 2 years!
Cost: $30
Register today by calling Connie
Saturday, April 15th
at FMDH Ambulance Barn
310 Mahon Street
Full Color Printing
from 9:00am - 1:00pm Envelopes • Brochures • Business Cards
Advertising in the BS Buzz
Training includes:
Learn about Emergency
Situations

at (406) 228-3648.
You can leave a message.
Registration deadline is Thursday,
April 13th at 5:00 pm.
Passport Pictures
Basic Life Support
Get Started with CPR
Get Started with AED
Get Started with First Aid
Demonstrations bscentral@nemont.net • 515 2nd Ave. S • (406) 228-4558

Whoop, whoop! track underway, Hambria leads Lions in Glendive

By Mike Brandt
It’s finally here. The first track and field meet
was held in Glendive where the Wibaux Invitational
was held Friday.
Lustre Christian finished third on the boys
side. The Lions scored 74 points, behind Havre with
93 and Glendive with 76.5. Nashua was 16th with 8
points.
Nashua girls were 15th with 9 points.
Plentywood won the girls’ meet with 80 points,
followed by Scobey with 75 and Savage with 55.
Jasiah Hambria led the Lions winning the high
jump with a leap of 6-feet, 2-inches, long jump,
going 21-feet, 5.75-inches for a Personal Best, and
triple jump with a 42-8,75. He also took second in
the 200 with a time of 23.92 for a PR. Hambria also
ran a PR in the 200, running a 53.27 for second.
Johnslee Pierre ran a 17.59 for a PR and second
in the 110 hurdles. The freshman also had a PR of
44.46 for fourth in the 300 hurdles and went 20-
03.25 in the long jump for fourth and a PR.
Terron Josephy went 20-4.75 in the long jump
for third and a PR.
Braden Ewing was third in triple jump with a
leap of 39-11.24.
The Lions 4X100 relay team of Braden and
Byron Ewing, Ife Aniobi, and Joseph ran a 48.45 for
eighth. Take out Havre, Sidney and Glendive and
the Lions would be fourth. The 4X400 rean a 4:07.68
with Elijah Lenihan, Pierre, Olfert, and Cayden
Klatt running a leg.
Nashua senior Xander Pugh took second in the long
jump, going 20-08.
Tia Dees scored for Nashua, taking third in the
discus, going 94-feet, 1-inch to tie for second with
Emily Nentwig of Glendive. Dees was fifth in shot
put, going 32-06.
Nashua’s 4X100 relay team of Gracyn Sibley,
Guinevere Abern, Marlo Schultre, and Madison
Harris, all freshmen. They ran 58.59.
At the Cut Bank Pre-Easter Invitational,
Whitewater finished second with 50 points. Conrad
had 71.33 to win the girls’ meet. Saco was tied sith
Cut Bank for seventh with 30 points. Belt won the
boys’ meet with 132.33. Cascade took second with
44.75 and Chinook third with 44. Saco tied with
Browning for 14th with 15 points.
Shelbi LaBrie was a double-winner, taking the
1,600 and 3,200. The sophomore ran a 5-minute,
38.63 in the 1,600 and a PR of 12:19.59 in the 3,200.
Paige Wasson won the javelin with a throw of
111-feet, 6-inches.
Kendall Scheffelmear won the triple jump,
leaping 32-feet, 2.5-inches.
Samantha Wisher was fourth in the 1,600,
running a 6:21.96 and in the 3,200 with a 13:34.78.
The Penguins 4X400 relay team of Kora LaBrie,
Scheffelmear, Shelbi LaBrie, and Wasson was fourth
with a time of 4:42.17.
Josie Brown scored all of Saco’s points and was
a triple-winner. The junior ran a 13.11 in the 100,
28.09 in the 200 and a PR of 1:04.37 in the 400.
Blaine Downing led the Panthers, winning the
pole vault by clearing the bar at 11`-feet, 5-inches.
Marshall Caves was third, going 9-5.
 FOR ALL YOUR
ELECTRICAL NEEDS
CALL 263-2724
Applications Available For Jeff
Jurgens Memorial Scholarships
The Scottie Booster Club is currently accepting
applications for 2023 Jeff Jurgens Memorial Scholarships.
The competitive annual scholarships are awarded to
Valley County’s graduating seniors (Class of 2023) who
played basketball in high school or who plan to pursue
a degree in a medical or health-related field. Other
considerations for scholarship awards are community
service, academic achievement, and financial need.
Deadline for 2023 applications is Friday, May 5.
Applications are available from guidance counselors in
Glasgow, Hinsdale, Nashua, Frazer, Lustre, and Opheim
schools. Prospective applicants can also request an
application directly from Andrew McKean by emailing
montanamckean@gmail.com or calling 406-263-5442.
The Jeff Jurgens Memorial Scholarships are funded
by proceeds from the annual Jeff Jurgens Memorial
Basketball Tournament, the booster club’s largest
fundraiser. The 23rd JJMT was held in mid-March in
Glasgow, and hosted over 60 youth basketball teams
from across eastern Montana.
Besides awarding JJMT Scholarships, the Scottie
Booster Club helps purchase team uniforms, equipment,
and otherwise supports Glasgow School District
athletics and extracurricular activities. For information
about becoming a Booster Club member or the benefits
of membership, contact president Mike Pehlke at 406-
263-9899.
Feeling overwhelmed?
Moving to Prairie Ridge, The
Manor, or Valley View?
LET US HELP.
Helping Senior Adults with their move
RATES:
$100/hr: Room to room in the same location
$200/hr: Moving from home to Prairie Ridge,
The Manor or Valley View
$250/hr: Moving from home to a different house
Call Shawn Beard • 230-1025
Glasgow / Fort Peck Chapter
We would like to extend a “Huge Thank
You” to all who participated & donated in
our Annual Walleyes Unlimited Banquet.
5th Ave Pharmacy • Albertsons
Bakers Jewelry • Blend 10 C&B Operations
Cottonwood Inn • D&G Sports & Western
Deb Elletson’s Crafts
Edward Jones Aaron Franzen/ Bethanie Keim
Edward Jones Bryan Krumweide
Ezzies • First Lutheran Women’s
Fort Peck Marina • Fossum/ Century Company
Gateway Club 8 Glasgow Auto Safety Center
Glasgow Auto Sales • Hi-Line Ford
JR’s Party Store • Wade Krauth
Markle’s Ace • Markle’s Warehouse
Mary Kay - Mary Humbert
Missouri River Realty - Jarrol Shock & Deb Henry
Mon-Dak Marine - Matt Cowen
Nemont Beverage • Page Land & Cattle
Prairie Travelers • Red Barn & Gifts
Red Chair Salon • Robyn’s Nest
Team Lake Ridge • The Loaded Toad
Thrivent Financial - Shelly George
T&R Trucking • Thompson & Sons
Valley Builders • Renee Bishop • Jake Newton
Todd Young • Joe Yeoman
Ricky Olsen • Elk’s Lodge • Toodies Cafe
Jamie & Jackie Meies • Joe Herbold
Jace & Hayley Young
Again, we would like to give a
“Big Thank You” to all the business
& volunteers for all your support.
You are an important part of making
Walleyes Unlimited such a successful
part of our community.
We sincerely apologize if we missed anyone.
St. Raphael’s
412 3rd Ave. N
228-9800
RUMMAGE SALE
POSTPONED UNTIL JUNE 8-10
WE ARE STILL ACCEPTING DONATIONS
DROP OFF ITEMS MONDAY - THURSDAY 10 AM - 4 PM
PLEASE LEAVE TREASURES ON THE STAGE.
PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE OUTSIDE
SPRING FLING
BAZAAR
SATURDAY, APRIL 15 • 9AM - 3PM
VALLEY EVENT CENTER
54141 US 2, GLASGOW, MT
Home based business to hand crafted items.
Mother’s Day • Graduation • Weddings • Father’s Day
Call Joan Burris at 406-263-8985 for more information

BURGER

NIGHT
Wednesday Nights
Serving 5:00-7:00 PM
with Sam Waters at the Grill,
and the Elks crew in the kitchen
Accepting TO-GO Orders
Elks Hours:
Wednesday - Friday
4:00 - 10:00 PM

SLAM THE DAM

Rescheduled for
APRIL 15, 2023
Registration: 9-10 AM
Walk/Run: 10:00 Start
Cost: $5.00/person
(Donations accepted)
Listen to radio and/or watch for signs to
see from which side of the dam the race
will start. Each participant receives a
finish souvenir.
Water and fruit will be provided.
Sponsored by Fort Peck Senior Citizens.

GLASGOW
Eg
SCHOOL MENU
WEDNESDAY
Breakfast Chicken
Egg & Cheese Sandwich • Ham
Apple • Milk
Lunch
Chicken Burger w/ Lettuce & Ch
Ranch • Dill Spear
Peaches • Chocolate Pudding
Milk
 WEDNESDAY
SOUPS: Tomato ∙ Chili Tonight in BECOME A Reserve Deputy
The Valley County Sheriff’s Office is now taking
SPECIALS: Hot Hamburger
Grilled Bacon & Cheese on NASHUA applications for volunteers as a Reserve Deputy.
Are you interested in learning more about law enforcement
Sourdough Nashua Our and serving the community of Valley County as a volunteer
Redeemer Lutheran law enforcement officer?
Dine at the “O” Contact Sheriff Boyer by
Church will have their email tboyer@valleycountymt.gov
monthly Indian Taco or by phone 406.228.6277
228-8006 Supper Tuesday, April to learn how you can be an integral part of the team
11th, from 4:30 - 6:30p.m. of law enforcement in Valley County.
This is a free will offering,
take-outs available and
everyone is welcome.
Thrivent has provided
APRIL 5 - 11, 2023 supplemental funding.
Sugar Tree Previously Frozen
SPIRAL SLICED HAM .................. $1.99 lb
Kentucky Legend Hickory Smoked Boneless
WHOLE OR HALF HAM ............... $5.99 lb There is a subtle
Cooks Bone-In but important difference
SPIRAL SLICED HAM .................. $2.99 lb
Farmland 4 lb. between the words
WHOLE BONELESS HAM........... $13.99 lb “complete” and “finished.” DIGITAL PICTURE & SOUND
Family Pack Certified Angus Beef® 93% Lean
When you marry DAILY MATINEES • $6.50/PERSON
GROUND BEEF .......................... $4.99 lb CURBSIDE POPCORN DAILY
Family Pack Certified Angus Beef® Boneless the right one, you are
NEW YORK STEAKS .................$13.99 ea All Tuesday showings are $5
Willamette Valley Beef Bacon Wrapped or Reg.
complete. 406-228-9239 • www.polsontheatres.com
TENDERLOIN STEAKS............... $12.99 lb When you marry
Bone-In Pork the wrong one, you are
SHOWING: APRIL 7 - 13, 2023
PICNIC ROAST ........................... $1.99 lb Rated PG 92 min. Rated PG-13 134 min.
Jenny-O Frozen Bone-In finished.
TURKEY BREAST ....................... $1.99 lb And if the right
40 Knots 20 oz.
SHRIMP RING ........................$12.99 ea one catches you with
Food Club 8 oz. Original the wrong one, you are
CREAM CHEESE ........................... 87¢ ea
completely finished. Fri. & Sat. 4:25 • 7:00 • 9:00 Fri. & Sat. 4:20 • 6:45 • 9:25
Sun. - Thurs. 4:25 • 7:00 Sun. - Thurs. 4:20 • 6:45

&
Read more on page:
Performance
Concrete
Construction
• Residential &
Commercial Concrete
Fort Peck, Montana • New Construction
Cell 406-263-8054 & Remodels
Fax: 406-367-5257
mudman@nemont.net Rod Lambert
Fort Peck Reservoir walleye spawn
FWP crews waiting for ice-off
by Marc Kloker, FWP Region 6 Information Officer
The winter and spring of 2023 is proving to be
tenacious, with roughly 30 inches of ice remaining
in some areas on Fort Peck Reservoir and nighttime
temps in the single digits well into early April. It begs
the question: what’s happening with the walleye spawn
operation on Fort Peck this year?
In most years, FWP fisheries crews start setting trap
nets in early April. Traps are set to collect walleye that
are beginning the spawning process. While photoperiod
(day length) plays a role in walleye spawning activity,
water temperature is the most important influencer in
triggering the spawning process.
Mother nature dictates when fisheries crews can
start, and it has varied through the years. April 22, 2018
is the latest date on record that crews were able to set
traps. Since 1937, there have been four years on Fort
Peck when the ice didn’t go off until May. The latest
recorded ice off was May 9, 1950.
What happens if fisheries crews are not able to get
traps in the water until late April or early May?
• Keep in mind that the water in the Big Dry Arm
warms up to optimal spawning temperatures more
quickly compared to other portions of the reservoir
such as the dam area. This is the main reason that
FWP established the spawn operation in the Big Dry
Arm. Walleye spawning typically peaks when water
temperatures near 50 degrees.
• There may be a very short window for the spawning
collection to take place. In addition, there is a chance
that crews will collect fewer eggs than they would on
a “normal” year, because some fish may have already
attempted to spawn or started to reabsorb (or hold)
their eggs by the time operations are set up.
What would a reduction in eggs collected mean to
walleye production?
• A reduction in total number of eggs collected would
equate to fewer walleye produced in the hatchery and
thus less available for stocking. The goal on a year like
this is to collect enough eggs to ensure all the rearing
ponds at the Fort Peck and Miles City hatcheries
get stocked to maximize production of fingerling
walleye. The number of walleye fry produced could
be significantly lower.
Fort Peck is 31 feet below full pool. How does this
affect the spawning operation?
• Access to boat ramps becomes really challenging
under low water conditions. Currently, the Nelson
Creek boat ramp is unusable, and crews may have
to use the Rock Creek boat ramp which will require
longer travel distances (10-12 miles) to reach favorable
trap netting areas daily.
Is there a silver lining to this story?
• Even with lower reservoir levels in recent years,
the Fort Peck walleye fishery is in relatively good
shape (fisheries biologists use the word “balanced”).
Standardized sampling in 2022 indicated a record
high number of walleye per net, with both a strong
number of large fish in the system, and two very large
year classes of younger walleyes measuring 10-15
inches in length.
• Studies show that strong year classes of walleye are
not produced every year throughout much of their
range. This may be nature’s mechanism to allow prey
species and other predatory species to rebound and
take advantage of the conditions.
What about the public volunteer effort?
One of the best aspects about the walleye spawn is
the opportunity for public volunteers to help and work
together with FWP staff.
Due to the probable narrow window for the
spawning effort, FWP staff are asking volunteers to
be patient and flexible. Staff will try to accommodate
as many folks as possible, but prospective volunteers
should know that space will be limited.
For more information on volunteering, contact
Fort Peck Reservoir biologist Heath Headley at 406-526-
3471, Ext. 206. Volunteers will receive an information
packet containing a self-addressed envelope and
volunteer form, which must be completed and signed.
Parents or guardians must sign the form for minors.
“Folks should list the dates they desire,” said
Headley. “We will call to confirm dates, so it’s important
for volunteers to provide us with phone numbers where
they can be reached both day and night. Also, it should
be noted that weekends fill quickly.”
MT VAPES
MOORE THOMPSON
& OTHER TOBACCO PRODUCTS
GRAND OPENING
April 15th, 2023 • 11 am - 7 pm
New Inventory / Great Sales
54092 US HWY 2 • Glasgow, Montana
Must be 21 to Enter