Serving Montana
A legacy of partnership and giving
Avista’s roots in Northwest Montana run deep. For over 70 years, we’ve responsibly managed hydroelectric facilities along the Clark Fork River. These resources are central to both the region’s energy system and its environmental heritage.
Beyond infrastructure, our presence in Northwest Montana is centered around partnership.
We work closely with local leaders, tribal nations and environmental organizations to protect natural and cultural resources, invest in education and workforce opportunities, and support community‑based initiatives.
As the energy system evolves, our commitment to Northwest Montana remains the same: showing up as a trusted, long‑term partner focused on reliability, stewardship, and community well‑being.
Scholarship opportunity
The Avista Community Scholarship is helping people reach their goals, whether they're headed to college or pursuing a craft, trade or certification.
This scholarship supports students in pursuing higher education with the hope that, after completing their degree or other postsecondary program, they will return to Sanders County, Montana, or Clark Fork, Idaho to contribute to their local community.
Stewardship
Avista has a long‑standing commitment to environmental stewardship in Montana, which is central to how we operate and care for the natural resources connected to our hydroelectric facilities along the Clark Fork River.
Through our federally licensed hydro operations and the Clark Fork Settlement Agreement, Avista works in close partnership with tribal nations, state and federal agencies, local watershed groups, and conservation organizations to protect and restore fish and wildlife habitat, improve water quality, and enhance recreational access.
This work includes stream and wetland restoration, habitat protection for native species such as bull trout, and long‑term land conservation efforts designed to preserve the ecological health of the region for future generations.
General community support
Avista supports Montana communities in a few philanthropic ways, including:
- Avista Foundation grant support: Non-profit organizations addressing the needs of communities and citizens served in Sanders County, Montana may apply for funding through this competitive grant program.
- Community partnerships: This ranges from events, volunteerism, other case-by-case needs, and more. Please email Davina Brown to inquire about opportunities.
- Some examples of our partnership include supporting:
- Montana Food Bank Network
- Sheriff’s Christmas Relief Fund
- Tree of Hearts for Sanders County
- Noxon School
- Volunteerism at various local nonprofits
- And more
Annual Avista Charity Golf Tournament
Since 2009, Avista has partnered with local nonprofits to host an annual charity golf tournament. The event raises funds that directly benefit the participating nonprofit in Sanders County, Montana.
It is held each August at River’s Bend Golf Course in Thompson Falls, Montana.
This tournament is powered by community sponsors, volunteers, and partners.
Interested in sponsoring the event, or being involved in another way? Please email Davina Brown.
Registration for the event typically opens in late spring.
Each year, Avista selects its charity golf tournament beneficiary through a careful review process focused on partnership readiness.
The selected nonprofit must demonstrate the capacity to co-plan and support a largescale event, align with Avista’s community impact goals, and actively participate in volunteer coordination, communications, and auction management.
Serving as the tournament beneficiary is a hands-on partnership that requires significant time, staff resources, and collaboration to ensure a successful and impactful event.