Monitoring Montana Waters, Whitefish Lake Institute, Flathead Biological Lab, American Geophysical Union and more

Thanks to training and equipment from Whitefish Lake Institute, TCLSC members have volunteered to monitor our lakes by sampling for invasive species, as well as measuring temperature and clarity.

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​Through an ongoing grant from Monitoring Montana Waters and Flathead Lake Biological Lab, volunteers from our group conduct sampling of the 3 of the most vulnerable kettle lakes to measure levels of nitrates, phosphates, and chlorophyll, establishing a crucial scientific baseline for future research on these aquatic ecosystems.

Our organization is proud to have been recognized in the Montana Watershed Coordination Council's publications for 2024 and 2025 as a dynamic and effective nonprofit focused on water resource management.

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Through a grant from the American Geophysical Union, we are launching a project in early 2026 to investigate the aquifer(s) in the Thompson Chain of Lakes to better understand the sustainability of ground water development related to existing and future residential development and its potential impacts to the spring-fed lakes in the area.​

Margaret Cargill Philanthropy and CDC Foundation

Through a grant from CDC Foundation and Margaret Cargil Philanthropy, 53 properties were treated (in 2025 and more in 2026) with pheromone packets to combat Douglas-fir bark beetle infestations. This intervention is crucial for maintaining tree health, as it helps prevent wildfires and reduces erosion, particularly in areas near shorelines. By preserving these trees, the treatment also mitigates sedimentation into water bodies, thereby protecting aquatic ecosystems.

American Geophysical Union

The project aims to investigate the aquifer(s) in the Thompson Chain of Lakes (TCL) to better understand the sustainability of ground water development related to existing and future residential development and its potential impacts to the spring-fed lakes in the area. Through this grant, a geohydrologist, will use analysis of major ions, trace metals, and stable isotopes (hydrogen, oxygen, and tritium) from water samples and nearby wells, to identify the source of water feeding the lake. This data could then be used to investigate whether fluctuations in the lake level are related to annual fluctuations in precipitation, or main aquifer development, and if future development could negatively impact lake levels and water availability.

Western Montana Resiliency Hub through Anthropocene Alliance Grant

Thompson Chain of Lakes Stewardship Coalition is excited to announce that we've received a grant to establish a collaborative hub for like-minded organizations in our area. As the lead organization, we will work closely with esteemed partners including The Confederated Kootenai Salish Tribes, Whitefish Lake Institute, Monitoring Montana Waters, Kootenai Climate Group, and Cabinet Resource Group. Together, we aim to foster stewardship and promote sustainable practices that protect our precious resources. We look forward to the positive impact this initiative will have on our community and environment. If you have ideas for projects, let us know - join us by sending an email to tclstewardshipcoalition@gmail.com

Montana Loon Society

The Thompson Chain of Lakes Stewarship Coalition (TCLSC) is committed to preserving the presence of loons in our beautiful lakes for generations to come. By partnering with the Montana Loon Society, our dedicated volunteers will gain training to effectively monitor and report loon sightings across the Chain of Lakes. Together, we will ensure loons continue to thrive in our area. Join us in our mission to protect and celebrate the loons of Thompson Chain of Lakes!

Join Us

Join the Thompson Chain of Lakes Stewardship Coalition, where friends and neighbors unite with a shared commitment to preserving and conserving our cherished lakes for generations to come. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on our environment and ensure that the beauty and health of the Chain of Lakes endures. Become part of a movement that values sustainability and clean and healthy lakes —join over 100 of us in making a difference today!