Giving Wetlands A Helping Hand
Wetlands are among the richest of ecological
communities. The gradual change from
upland forest to standing water creates a
diversity of habitat where plants, insects,
birds, fish, and other wildlife flourish.
The wetlands before you was created in 1993
through the cooperative efforts of various
federal, state, and private groups. This
project is an example of how we
can preserve our fish and wildlife
resources through public participation
and interagency cooperation.
Please avoid disturbing wildlife by viewing
and taking pictures from a distance. Anglers,
be gentle wild wild trout in complying with
the "catch and release only" regulation.
Wetlands adjacent to open meadows
are prime feeding and roosting areas
for the sandhill crane. Listen for their
distinctive call late in the evening and
watch as they dance-stretching, bowing
and throwing sticks in the air.
This pond provides a haven
for wild rainbow trout. Feasting
on a diet of freshwater scuds
and insects, the fish are growing
fat. Look for the ripples of
rising rainbow trout as they
feed during early morning
and evening.
Canada geese use lush wetlands in the
spring to nest and raise their young.
Can you spot the elevated nesting
platform in the center of the pond?
Adult dragonflies and damselflies are
the aerial predators of the insect world.
They are often seen flying above the
water in search of insects to eat. In
contrast, their young or "nymphs" live
underwater and feed on aquatic insects.
Look for small freshwater
scuds along the banks of the
Beaver Creek ponds. They are
an important food source for
the wild trout and numerous
birds that live here.
Watchable Wildlife Area
Gallatin National Forest
Montana Department of Fish
Wildlife & Parks
Montana Department
of Transportation
The Montana Trout Foundation
