Big Sky Tackles Costly Water Infrastructure Challenges

Community's growth and environment demand more from water and wastewater systems

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Big Sky, Montana is facing critical infrastructure decisions as it works to build a water system that meets the needs of its growing, seasonal population while protecting the local environment. The Big Sky County Water and Sewer District is operating a high-performing water treatment facility and exploring options to address aging septic systems in the Gallatin Canyon, all while maintaining a rare zero-discharge wastewater system that reuses 100% of treated water.

Why it matters

Big Sky's unique environment and rapid growth have placed significant demands on its water infrastructure, requiring the community to make major investments to safeguard public health and the local ecosystem. The district's approach highlights the tradeoffs and complexities involved in building sustainable water systems for fast-growing mountain towns.

The details

The Big Sky Water Resource Recovery Facility, now in its first full year of operation, is performing exceptionally well, consistently meeting or exceeding all regulatory requirements. However, the zero-discharge system that reuses 100% of treated wastewater for irrigation and snowmaking comes at a substantially greater cost to the community. The district is also exploring a proposed Gallatin Canyon Sewer Project to replace aging septic systems near the Gallatin River with centralized treatment, which could reduce nutrient loading and protect groundwater, though the project is still in the planning phase.

  • The Big Sky Water Resource Recovery Facility began operations in 2025.
  • The proposed Gallatin Canyon Sewer Project is currently in the planning and review phase.

The players

Big Sky County Water and Sewer District

The local government agency responsible for managing water and wastewater infrastructure in the Big Sky community.

Johnny O'Connor

The executive director of the Big Sky County Water and Sewer District.

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What they’re saying

“Big Sky's water future depends on thoughtful planning today. Whether it's operating a high performing treatment facility, maintaining a rare zero-discharge system, or evaluating long term solutions for sensitive areas like the Gallatin Canyon, the District remains committed to transparency, stewardship and serving the community's long-term interests.”

— Johnny O'Connor, Executive Director, Big Sky County Water and Sewer District (explorebigsky.com)

What’s next

The Big Sky County Water and Sewer District will continue evaluating the proposed Gallatin Canyon Sewer Project, including conducting further engineering studies, cost-benefit analyses, and public engagement, before making a final decision on whether to move forward with the project.

The takeaway

Big Sky's water infrastructure challenges highlight the difficult tradeoffs and significant investments required to build sustainable water systems in fast-growing mountain communities with unique environmental constraints. The district's commitment to transparency, environmental stewardship, and serving the community's long-term interests is crucial as it navigates these complex issues.