As 2024 comes to a close the Flathead Lakers are eagerly looking ahead to opportunities to protect and defend the Flathead watershed in 2025. Looming threats such as Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS), increased pollution, train derailments, and unchecked development grow more urgent each year, the work of the Lakers is more needed than ever. That’s why I’m asking you to make a tax-deductible end of year donation to the Flathead Lakers today. Your donation will be put to work defending the lake and the entire watershed by our experienced team here at the Flathead Lakers by: Advocating for Aquatic Invasive Species Detection and Prevention funding at the Montana Legislature. Increased safety measures and better disaster response plans for chemical trains traveling along the Middle Fork of the Flathead River where a train derailed in October. Science backed water quality testing standards by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality. Responsible development in the Flathead watershed. Long term solutions that hold polluters like Glencore, the owners of the Columbia Falls Aluminum Company, responsible for cleaning up the messes they make. Educating Residents and visitors about the dangers that Aquatic Invasive Species pose to our Lake and watershed. Residents, business owners, and partners to find collaborative solutions to complex problems like septic leachate and stormwater runoff polluting our waters. Local students in subjects including ecology, aquatic biology, and sustainability in partnership with the Flathead Lake Biological Station Lake users about the life cycle, detection, and prevention of common summertime issues like swimmers itch. New and longtime residents about strategies living responsibly in the Flathead watershed through our Living in the Flathead Guide. Conserving Critical lands that help sustain clean water, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities through partnership programs that have led to the conservation of nearly 9,000 acres along the Flathead River and the northshore of Flathead Lake. Over 1,200 acres of wetlands and riparian forests protected along the Flathead River in 2024. There has never been a better or more important time to support the Flathead Lakers because the Flathead Lakers have never been better suited to address those threats and build on our recent and historic successes. Enclosed with this letter is a pledge card that allows you to choose your giving level. Every donation, large or small, will make a big difference to the success of the Flathead Lakers in 2025. Thank you for your thoughtful consideration toward a year-end gift. Warm wishes for the holiday season! Sincerely, Coby Gierke Executive Director, Flathead Lakers