Flathead commissioners approve letter asking Bureau of Reclamation to assume oversight of Camas Irrigation District

Flathead County commissioners voted May 13 to send a letter asking the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to assume oversight of the Camas Irrigation District, saying the change could help raise water levels at Bitterroot Lake and ease strain on county boat ramps.

The request, presented by County Administrator Pete Miller, seeks federal oversight to replace management currently under the Bureau of Indian Affairs. “This is a critical need for this change to be made by the Department of Interior,” a commissioner said during the meeting, adding that Secretary Bergin should “listen to this” on behalf of people who live around Bitterroot Lake.

Why it matters: Commissioners and staff said low lake levels have reduced usability of two county boat ramps and prompted consideration of expensive engineering fixes. County officials expressed the view that improved water management — and raising the lake level — would be a preferable remedy.

Details and process: Pete Miller, county administrator, introduced the letter and explained the oversight shift would relate to management that affects Bitterroot Lake and its levels. Commissioners debated briefly and then approved the motion and second to send the letter; the motion carried.

What commissioners said: A commissioner noted the request “impacts more than just the residents” because of two public ramps that are struggling because of low water. County staff said they will wait to see whether the Department of the Interior responds to the county’s request.

Next steps: The county will transmit the approved letter to the Bureau of Reclamation and await federal responses. No additional binding county action was taken at the meeting beyond the letter’s approval.