Lower Yellowstone Fish Conservation Bill

Official: Lower Yellowstone River Native Fish Conservation Act

IntroducedDecember 10, 2025

Why This Matters

This bill makes it clear that the Bureau of Reclamation is responsible for a fish passage channel designed to help endangered fish. It protects both the fish and the local irrigation project from unnecessary costs.

If you live near the Lower Yellowstone River, this bill helps protect local fish without burdening your irrigation costs.

Affects: Local farmers and residents relying on the Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Project.

What changes is this bill making?

1. This bill confirms that the Bureau of Reclamation owns and controls the Lower Yellowstone Fish Bypass Channel. 2. It ensures the channel helps endangered pallid sturgeon and other native fish species thrive. 3. The bill protects the Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Project from financial burdens related to this conservation effort. 4. It clarifies that the irrigation district is not responsible for the channel's maintenance or costs. 5. The legislation aims to prevent future attempts to shift operational costs to the irrigation district.

Who is affected?

Local farmers and residents relying on the Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Project.