Drought in Gallatin County
Drought is one of Montana’s most common and far-reaching natural hazards. While drought develops more slowly than floods, wildfires, or severe storms, its impacts can affect residents, agriculture, businesses, water supplies, recreation, wildlife, and ecosystems for months or even years.
Montana’s climate is naturally prone to periods of drought, and Gallatin County has experienced recurring drought conditions throughout its history. Extended dry periods, below-average snowpack, reduced streamflows, hot temperatures, and increased water demand can all contribute to drought conditions. Recent statewide drought assessments have shown that many areas of Montana continue to experience varying levels of drought and water supply concerns.
What is Drought
Drought occurs when an area experiences significantly less precipitation than normal over an extended period of time. Unlike a single hot day or a short dry spell, drought develops gradually and can have lasting impacts on water availability.
Drought can be measured in several ways:
- Meteorological Drought – Below-average precipitation for a prolonged period.
- Agricultural Drought – Insufficient soil moisture to support crops, rangeland, and vegetation.
- Hydrological Drought – Reduced streamflows, groundwater levels, reservoirs, and water supplies.
- Socioeconomic Drought – Water shortages that affect communities, businesses, recreation, and public services.
In Montana, drought conditions are monitored using precipitation data, streamflow measurements, reservoir levels, soil moisture, snowpack conditions, and local impact reports. The statewide drought monitoring process helps decision-makers identify emerging drought conditions and respond appropriately
Why Drought Matters in Gallatin County
Drought can affect nearly every aspect of life in Gallatin County, including:
- Reduced water supplies for homes, farms, and businesses
- Lower streamflows and impacts to fisheries
- Increased wildfire risk and longer fire seasons
- Stress on crops, livestock, and rangelands
- Impacts to outdoor recreation and tourism
- Increased costs for irrigation and water management
- Reduced groundwater recharge and well production
Hot temperatures, low humidity, and dry vegetation can also increase the likelihood and intensity of wildfires throughout Southwest Montana. Drought and wildfire are closely linked hazards that often occur together.
How to Prepare for Dought
Conserve Water Year-Round
Using water efficiently during normal conditions helps build resilience during drought periods.
Consider:
- Fixing leaking faucets, toilets, and irrigation systems
- Installing water-efficient appliances and fixtures
- Watering lawns and landscaping during cooler hours
- Choosing drought-tolerant plants and landscaping
- Using mulch to reduce soil moisture loss
- Collecting and utilizing rainwater when appropriate and legal
Prepare Your Home Water Supply
If your property relies on a private well:
- Have your well inspected regularly
- Monitor water production and pressure
- Maintain pumps, pressure tanks, and electrical connections
- Identify alternative water sources in case supplies become limited
Residents using municipal water systems should stay informed about local conservation measures or water use restrictions during drought conditions.
Reduce Wildfire Risk
Drought significantly increases wildfire potential. Homeowners should:
- Create and maintain defensible space around structures
- Remove dead vegetation and combustible materials
- Keep roofs and gutters free of debris
- Store firewood away from homes and buildings
- Develop a family evacuation plan
Learn more on our wildfire preparedness page.
Prepare Farms and Ranches
Agricultural producers can improve drought resilience by:
- Monitoring soil moisture and weather conditions
- Developing contingency grazing plans
- Evaluating livestock water sources
- Maintaining stock ponds and water infrastructure
- Planning for supplemental feed or water supplies
- Working with local conservation and extension agencies on drought adaptation strategies
Stay Informed
Early awareness allows individuals and communities to take action before drought conditions worsen.
Monitor:
- Snowpack and runoff forecasts
- Local water supply conditions
- Fire danger ratings
- Streamflow reports
- Drought declarations and advisories
Drought Resources
Montana Resources
- Montana Drought Management Portal – Current conditions, drought monitoring, impacts, and preparedness resources.
- Montana DNRC Drought Planning and Management – State drought planning, monitoring, and resilience information.
- https://climate.umt.edu/ – Climate data, outlooks, and weather resources.
- https://drought.climate.umt.edu/ – Drought Dashboard
- https://www.montana.edu/extension/ – Agriculture, landscaping, and drought adaptation resources.
National Resources
- U.S. Drought Monitor – Weekly drought maps and classifications.
- Drought.gov – Montana drought conditions, forecasts, and preparedness information.
- https://www.drought.gov/ – Drought monitoring and early warning information.