05/14/2026
“Forever chemicals” are showing up in Montana fish, including some of the waters many Montanans know best. A recent piece from Montana Free Press highlights growing concern around PFAS contamination in fish across Montana, including Fort Peck Reservoir, the Yellowstone River, the Missouri River, and the East Gallatin.
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are human-made chemicals used in products like firefighting foam, waterproof materials, stain-resistant coatings, and industrial manufacturing. They persist in the environment for hundreds to thousands of years, earning the name “forever chemicals.” Lab results found at least one type of PFAS present in 78% of the samples submitted.
In April, Montana agencies updated statewide fish consumption advisories following fish tissue sampling conducted in 2023 and 2024. The testing found PFAS present in fish tissue at 12 of 14 sampled locations (second slide). Some of the highest concentrations were found in Fort Peck Reservoir walleye, Yellowstone River fish, and the East Gallatin system.
The article also raises broader questions around public transparency, long-term exposure, and how communities - particularly Tribal communities and families who regularly harvest wild fish for food - are informed about contamination risks. Fish consumption advisories are not bans on eating fish, but they are important public health tools meant to help people make informed decisions. Exposure to certain PFAS compounds has been associated with increased cancer risk, immune system impacts, developmental concerns, and other health effects.
At Montana Freshwater Partners, we believe healthy watersheds are directly tied to healthy communities. Conversations like this underscore why long-term watershed stewardship, monitoring, science-based policy, and public access to information matters.
Click the link in our bio to read the full reporting from Montana Free Press and learn more about Montana’s updated fish consumption guidance through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. 📸MTFP, MTFWP, and Getty |
