Neighbors recently spoke with a hydrologist conducting groundwater testing next to the proposed 64 acre gravel pit site near the Blackfoot River corridor.
The hydrologist stated the testing was being conducted for Riverside Contracting’s gravel pit mine.
In December 2025, Missoula County informed Riverside Contracting that any future gravel pit proposal in this location would be subject to a formal zoning compliance review and would require additional operational details to be submitted for evaluation.
Hydrology testing is often part of the early groundwork used to evaluate groundwater conditions before projects move forward. Seeing this type of testing occurring now raises questions about whether preparations related to the project may still be underway.
This is a reminder that the proposal to build a large industrial gravel operation in the Blackfoot River corridor has not simply disappeared.
Thousands of Missoula County residents and more than 60 local businesses have already expressed serious concerns about groundwater protection, air quality, traffic safety, and the long term health of the Blackfoot River corridor.
When projects appear to move forward despite widespread community concern, it can leave many feeling that their voices, and their health, safety, and way of life, are not being fully considered.
Montana is a very special place, but our state also carries a long history of resource extraction that has left lasting harm to the land and the communities who depend on it. That pattern has gone on long enough. It is time for communities to have a stronger voice in protecting the places that define where we live.
We will share updates as we learn more.
In the meantime, if you care about the Blackfoot River, you can help by:
• Sharing this update to raise awareness
• Signing and sharing the community petition
• Talking with friends and neighbors about what is happening
• Signing up at our website to receive our newsletter or requesting a lawn sign
The conversation about the future of the Blackfoot River corridor is far from over.
The Blackfoot River gives so much to all of us.
Now it is our turn to stand up for it.
The Blackfoot River and all lifeforms Thank You for your support. 🌊♥️🌲