- 98 - 

 influence water quality; however, there are several wet areas in the valley 

 that are particularly sensitive to poor timber harvesting practices. 

 There is also an area of erosive bentonitic soils in the area of California 

 and Oregon Creeks (T3N, RllW). Past logging in this area has enhanced 

 erosion and sediment contribution to these streams; natural beaver dams 

 have helped to prevent extensive downstream deterioration of water 

 quality (DF&G - Butte, pers. conin. ). 



There is active timber harvesting in the Mt. Haggin area northwest of 

 Wise River, Montana. In a recent land sale, the DF&G and USPS have purchased 

 an area of former checkerboard ownership (private and USPS). Although 

 former timber contracts must be honored (Louisiana Pacific), DP&G has 

 placed some BMP's into effect. These measures should protect stream 

 water quality in most cases; however, DP&G has limited control of how 

 much acreage will be harvested before 1988 (contract termination). Due 

 to these circumstances, this area should be considered as a potential 

 problem. 



Agriculture-related activities have probably had the largest impact upon 

 the Big Hole River drainage (DHES, 1974; DP&G - Butte, Bozeman, pers. 

 comm. ) . 



Table VI-Cl outlines known or suspected water quality problems associated 

 with silvicultural activities in the Big Hole River Valley; Plate I 

 shows locations of problem areas. 



At present, the Big Hole River retains a high water quality rating. How- 

 ever, it is threatened by several aspects of agricultural and forestry 

 operations within the watershed. A comprehensive basin-wide management 

 plan employing appropriate practices for silvicultural activities will 

 help maintain the water quality of the Big Hole River. 



