Scientists at the Flathead Lake Biological Station strive for discoveries that advance understanding of natural and cultural inter-relationships in an ecosystem context. We test hypotheses about how and why animals and plants are distributed within landscapes at various spatial and time scales and how productivity of organisms is controlled by complex, often non-linear, biogeochemical processes. FLBS research is focused on freshwater: rain, snow, lakes, ponds, reservoirs, rivers, floodplains, wetlands, groundwaters and watersheds. Much of our research is done locally in the Crown of the Continent Ecosystem. Our studies take us around Montana and around the world.

At FLBS, our mission requires us to use our knowledge to help conserve natural resources, solve environmental problems, and promote human well-being.