Swan Ecosystem Center to host water quality session with experts

The Swan Ecosystem Center will host an informal program to provide more information to those in the Seeley-Swan area who are interested in reclaiming or maintaining their water quality on Jan. 17 at 7 p.m. at the U.S. Forest Service Condon Work Center.

Three experts will discuss numerous Seeley-Swan water quality issues and water quality in general. Opportunities to be proactive at a local level will be discussed including the logistics for testing water quality.

First, Bruce Rieman, retired fisheries research biologist, USFS Rocky Mountain Research Station and board member of the Clearwater Resource Council will present on the science of water quality including how lakes work.

Second, Walt Hill, retired University of Montana biochemistry professor, now in research for UM, adviser to the Seeley Lake Sewer Board and President of the Seeley Lake Water Board, will present an overview of the development of Seeley Lake water issues including the cost and challenges, and the differences between ground and surface water.

Third, Erik Englebert, Environmental Health Specialist II, Missoula County Environmental Health Department and Department Lead for the Onsite Wastewater and Sanitation in Subdivision Programs, will address the county’s role in water quality and discuss the difference of the various septic systems.

Each of these presenters will be asked to discuss the implications for communities like Condon and Seeley Lake and what actions local residents can take to be proactive in protecting or improving their drinking water.

People interested in participating in water quality testing should leave their contact information at SEC after the program.