WATER 



Water, according to many experts, soon, if not now, 

 will be the most valuable resource received from Montana 

 forest lands. Management of forest land to improve 

 quality and quantity of useable water is therefore one 

 of the most important tasks of land managers. 



Forest management on watersheds can profoundly affect 

 production of water, maintenance of soil stability, 

 sedimentation, regulation of stream flow, pollution, fish 

 habitat, and streamside values. 



Soil conditions in well managed forests are partic- 

 ularly effective in reducing erosion and producing consistent 

 water flow. Also important is the reduction of flood peaks 

 due to short, intense rain storms. Forests influence the 

 quantity, quality, and the timing of water yield. 



Management of the forests for water is usually 

 compatible with management for other purposes. Where- 

 ever water is a key value, forest landowners must recognize 

 that it is their responsibility to employ land-use practices 

 which benefit watersheds. 



Studies indicate that the use of water in the U. S. 

 will double by 1980, and triple by 2000, and that this 



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