A recent study of Missoula’s aquifer reveals levels trending down in recent years.

An analysis of Missoula’s water table shows from 2000 to 2023, the average water level is up, according to the company Adaptive Hydrology. However, the more recent 10-year period since 2014 shows water levels declining or staying almost even to previous years.

Missoula is in a period of increased water demand, while supply via the Clark Fork River is also up, Nick Silverman, a scientist behind the analysis, told city council members this week.