Miller Colony Pond License Review FWP-CEA-FSH-R4-25-021

May 27, 2025 9:46 AM

A private landowner is applying for a Private Fish Pond License and proposes to stock rainbow trout, brown trout, and westslope cutthroat trout in a private pond. The pond is roughly 4 surface acres and is located on 5130 US Hwy 89 Choteau, Mt. The reservoir is filled by diverted water from the Teton River. This pond was previously permitted for rainbow trout stocking but it has not been stocked since 1976. It likely has some fish entrained from the El Dorado diversion from the Teton River. The outlet structure is ditched and would eventually would flow to Foster Creek and eventually into Muddy Creek but it is not well connected. Escapement is unlikely. Muddy Creek is seasonally dry due to heavy irrigation demands. Northern redbelly dace have been documented Muddy Creek and is the only documented Montana Species of Special Concern. Most trout species are not native to the Muddy Creek drainage; however, risk of escapement is low and associated risks are minimal. Westslope cutthroat trout are native to MT, but conservation populations are not present in drainage, presenting no adverse genetic effects with wild fish. Fish could be removed from the pond via chemical treatments or stocking can be stopped to let the fish age out. The project is sponsored by the private landowner and the license would be active for a period of 10 years from the year of issuance (2025). The license can be renewed for additional 10-year intervals at the end of each term and the license is transferable.

- Duration of Public Comment Period: The public comment period begins on the date of publication on the FWP website. Written or e-mailed comments will be accepted until 5:00 p.m., MST, on the last day of public comment, as listed below:

Length of Public Comment Period: 15 days

Public Comment Period Begins: May 27, 2025

Public Comment Period Ends: June 10, 2025

Comments must be addressed to the FWP contact, as listed below.

- Where to Mail or Email Comments on the Draft EA:

Name: Katie Vivian Fisheries Biologist

Email: kvivian@mt.gov

Mailing Address: PO Box 1398 Choteau, MT 59422