RECREATION + SAFETY

Gibson Dam at the top of Sun Canyon “spilling” water to lower reservoir levels.

KNOW THE FLOW BEFORE YOU GO

Flows on the Sun River can change quickly and dramatically, especially during the irrigation season (between May and September). The river may rise rapidly to dangerous levels without warning. When flows are low, obstacles may be uncovered that present safety hazards. Low flows can also mean you may need to portage in dewatered or very low-flow sections. To be as prepared as possible:

CHECK FLOWS. Make sure the river has adequate flows for the type of recreation you have planned and is not running at a dangerous level. USGS has real-time gages at Simms and below Diversion Dam that can inform you of flows in the more popular - and frequently fluctuating - sections.

CHECK RESERVOIRS. When Gibson Dam is close to full and a rain or snowmelt event is anticipated, it may be necessary for the dam operators to quickly “spill” the reservoir to make room for more water. This puts more water in the river below Gibson very quickly. Avoid recreation when the dam is close to full and rain or warm weather that may melt snow pack is anticipated.

Also consider checking snow pack and use your favorite app or website to check the weather for your trip. Remember weather can change quickly in the mountains so bring gear and clothing for all seasons!

And finally, even seasoned boaters can get into trouble - don’t forget to wear your life preserver and consider keeping a pin kit and throw bag in your boat at all times - just in case.

BE BEAR AWARE

The Sun River Watershed is grizzly country. Grizzlies spend a lot of time in riparian areas as well as ranch and farm land. Recreationists, farmers ranchers, and homeowners are encouraged to practice bear safety. Take precautions when on the river, hiking, camping, and anywhere in the watershed to reduce encounters with bears:

• Don’t forget your bear spray and know how to use it. Bear spray is a highly effective, non-lethal bear deterrent.

• Keep your distance, NEVER run from a bear, and NEVER feed wildlife, especially bears.

• Know your bears. It’s possible to encounter black bears and grizzlies in the Sun River watershed.

• Stay alert for bear activity, especially when visibility or hearing is limited in riparian, woody, and brushy areas.

• Make noise whenever possible to avoid surprising a bear.

• Travel in a group and avoid traveling at night, dawn, or dusk.

• Avoid carcass sites and scavenger concentrations.

• Properly store all attractants.

• If you see a bear or detect fresh bear sign, leave the area the way you entered.

• Visit FWP’s Bear Aware site before you visit the Sun River for more tips.

• Report bear encounters to the FWP Great Falls office at (406) 454-5840.

KNOW THE RULES

No matter how you recreate in the Sun River watershed, it’s important to know and follow the rules.

“Hoot owl” closures typically happen in the summer and prohibit fishing each day between 2 pm and midnight. Closures will be displayed on the SRWG River Conditions site and FWP’s website.

Hiking and antler collection are popular activities on the Sun River Wildlife Management Area - however this WMA is closed December through mid-May to protect wildlife.

Make sure you know hunting and fishing regulations and have the proper licenses if you’re coming to the Sun River watershed to hunt or fish.