Flathead Rivers Alliance kicks off 2026 river season with spring events

Flathead Rivers Alliance (FRA) is proud to announce the official kickoff of the 2026 river season, marking a milestone year: the 50th anniversary of the designation of the Flathead Wild and Scenic River. This year-long celebration brings the community together through a dynamic lineup of volunteer opportunities, educational programming, river safety initiatives, and community events designed to inspire stewardship and safe recreation.  

Designated in 1976, the Flathead River system spans 219 miles and remains one of the most ecologically intact river systems in the lower 48 states. As river use continues to grow, FRA is expanding its efforts to engage the public in protecting this treasured resource.  

Flathead Rivers Alliance invites community members, river users, and visitors to participate in a series of spring events designed to build knowledge, connection, and stewardship:  

FRA will host its annual volunteer interest meeting on Thursday, April 16 from 6–8 p.m. at Glacier Outdoor Center. RSVPs are recommended and dinner will be provided. Attendees can learn about opportunities including River Ambassadors, citizen science monitoring, and water quality programs that special projects agency partners are working on and key initiatives that support stewardship throughout the busy summer season.  

A cornerstone event of the spring season, the River Safety Fair on April 26 from 2-5 p.m., brings together river professionals, outfitters, and public safety partners to provide hands-on learning opportunities. Participants can explore essential safety gear, learn rescue techniques, and build confidence for early-season river conditions. With spring runoff creating cold, fast, and unpredictable water, this event is a critical opportunity for both new and experienced river users to prepare for a safe season on the water.  

The Rivers Rundown Speaker Series will run April–May. This engaging speaker series brings local experts together to share insights on river history, wildlife, fisheries, and recreation. Open to all, these sessions also serve as training opportunities for FRA volunteers and deepen understanding of the river’s outstanding values.  

Celebrate Earth Day by giving back on April 25 with a river cleanup. Volunteers will help clean up river access sites along the Flathead Wild and Scenic River, supporting a healthier watershed for the season ahead.  

Kick off paddling season at the 21st annual Paddling Film Festival on May 2, co-hosted with Montana Kayak Academy. This community-favorite event features world-class paddling films, raffles and opportunities to connect with the river community.  

FRA’s volunteer programs run throughout the summer, with training starting in mid-to-late April. Volunteers play a vital role in river stewardship, serving as on-the-ground educators, collecting data, and helping promote safe, responsible recreation. FRA emphasizes the importance of river safety through seasonal workshops, outreach, and events like the River Safety Fair, helping river users understand changing conditions and make informed decisions before heading out.  

The 50th River Fest is July 10. The family-friendly celebration honors five decades of protection. Interactive booths, live music, food, and so much more.  

The 50th anniversary celebration will continue throughout the summer with additional events including community river cleanups and stewardship days, educational talks and storytelling events and volunteer action projects. 

For more information visit flatheadrivers.org/events.