From Our HOA to Montana's Stream Banks: A Shared Act of Stewardship
- West Winds HOA
- Apr 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 21
As presented by the Board at the HOA's Annual Meeting on April 8, 2025.
2025 Project: Trout Unlimited and Gallatin Watershed Council are Harvesting Willows from the West Winds HOA's stormwater facilities
This spring, something exciting is happening in our neighborhood—and you can be a part of it. On April 24, 2025, volunteers from West Winds and beyond will join forces with conservation leaders to selectively harvest willows from the West Winds HOA's stormwater facilities. But this isn't just yard work—it's a win-win for our community and for Montana’s treasured waterways.
Why Harvest Willows?
Our HOA's stormwater facilities (including DF-4.2, near Santa Ana Court, and DF-2A, near Buckrake Avenue) are essential for managing runoff and protecting water quality. Over time, dense willow growth can clog these systems, reducing their function and increasing maintenance costs.
By partnering with Trout Unlimited, the Gallatin Watershed Council, and the City of Bozeman’s Parks Dept and the City's Utilities Division - Stormwater Program, the West Winds HOA is addressing that challenge in a smart and sustainable way—removing select willows to improve drainage and function, while donating the healthy cuttings to support river restoration projects throughout the region.
The Power of Partnership
This project was inspired by a novel proposal from Russ Smith, the Project Coordinator for the City of Bozeman’s Stormwater Program, last fall (2024), which gained momentum quickly this spring (2025). After months of collaboration, site visits, and planning meetings, a coordinated effort is underway. The Gallatin Watershed Council and Trout Unlimited are leading the charge—together, they will use our willows in habitat restoration projects along rivers and streams throughout Gallatin County.
Together, the stakeholders involved are turning our HOA's stormwater maintenance into a meaningful act of environmental stewardship.
Volunteer and Make a Difference
We invite all West Winds residents to register to volunteer on the Gallatin Watershed Council's website. Please note that spots are limited. Volunteer to roll up your sleeves to help a great cause taking place right here in our community:
Thursday, April 24 from 1:00–4:30 PM
Backup Date: Thursday, May 1 from 1:00–4:30 PM
Volunteers will help cut and collect willow stems, clear debris, and support this community-wide effort. No prior experience needed—just a willingness to help and get a little muddy.
Learn more -> Sign up now at: www.gallatinwatershedcouncil.org/events
Safety and Sustainability First
All work will be led by the Gallatin Watershed Council and Trout Unlimited to comply with City of Bozeman safety standards and site access protocols. Harvesting crews will cut willows to ground level and leave mature trees and perimeter vegetation untouched to preserve our green spaces. Debris will be cleaned up, and areas will be restored once work is completed.
Benefits Beyond the Cut
This project supports four key goals:
Support Local Conservation: Willows from our HOA lands will be used to restore banks and wildlife habitats.
Enhance Functionality: Removing excess vegetation keeps our stormwater facilities working as designed.
Improve Aesthetics: Selective cutting maintains the beauty of our open spaces.
Save HOA Costs: By collaborating with local partners, we reduce stormwater maintenance expenses for 2025.
Let’s harvest for good.
By giving a little time and effort this spring, we’re protecting our HOA infrastructure, supporting Montana’s rivers, and showing what’s possible when HOAs, nonprofits, city park departments, city stormwater programs, and nature work together.
Special thanks to:
Connor Parrish, Gallatin Project Manager - Trout Unlimited Madison-Gallatin Chapter
Jared Trilling, Project Manager - Gallatin Watershed Council
Russell Smith, Project Coordinator - City of Bozeman Stormwater Program
Stay tuned for updates on this and other initiatives at www.westwindshoabozeman.org
