Powell County and the City of Deer Lodge are collaborating with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) to update floodplain maps for several local waterways, including the Clark Fork, Blackfoot, and Little Blackfoot Rivers, as well as Cottonwood Creek and its tributaries. The updated maps will focus on providing more accurate flood risk data for these areas.
An open house event is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Avon Clubhouse in Avon, Montana. This session will center on changes related to the Little Blackfoot River and its tributaries. Attendees will have an opportunity to speak directly with DNRC staff about how the updates might affect their properties or communities.
According to organizers, many of the current floodplain maps rely on data from the late 1970s. The goal of this project is to protect taxpayers, landowners, and ecologically important zones by better identifying areas prone to flooding. The new maps are expected to eventually replace existing FEMA floodplain maps.
The public is encouraged to participate in upcoming open houses or contact officials afterward with questions if they cannot attend in person. Updated contact information will be provided following the meetings. A formal comment period is planned for later in the year, likely beginning in September.
Officials note that progress on this mapping project has been delayed due to uncertain federal funding and challenges associated with accurately mapping flood risks using limited state resources. Despite these setbacks, Powell County, Deer Lodge city officials, and DNRC reaffirm their commitment “to ensuring the community’s questions and concerns are heard and responded to.”
Further details about the project can be found on the project website.
Office hours for inquiries are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except holidays; offices close from noon until 1 p.m. for lunch.
