Meet 2 River Rockstars: Tim Polich and Beth Schenk

clark fork coalition holiday party 2015
December 22, 2015

As Montana’s mountains fill up with snow—storing up water to replenish our streams come spring—we are full of gratitude for the many people who gave so much to the Clark Fork watershed in 2015. Here’s a year-end shout-out to all of you!

In particular, we want to say thank you to two river rockstars who have given their all for the river since 2009. Meet Tim Polich and Beth Schenk, both of whom are finishing their six-year terms on the Clark Fork Coalition’s board of directors*.

We are proud of their service on behalf of making the Clark Fork clean, healthy and whole. Learn more about why they contributed to the cause for clean water:

Tim Polich, Vice President/Commercial Lender, First Security Bank

Tim Polich opens the headgate at Racetrack Lake.
Tim Polich opens the headgate at Racetrack Lake.

What’s your favorite memory from serving on the board?

Our annual field trips definitely stand out. I loved being able to get out on the ground to see what’s been accomplished in different areas of the watershed. And the most memorable field trip for me was going up to Racetrack Lake near Anaconda. We had to take bikes or ATVs several miles up forest roads to see the reservoir where CFC leases water for Racetrack Creek. Each of us took turns twisting the headgate open. It was pretty cool to see the creek fill up with cold water that summer!

What inspired you to volunteer for the river?

Well, I started out on the Montana Water Trust board a decade ago, back in 2006. First Security Bank is a big proponent of community service, and I’m a big fan of rivers and streams. It was a natural fit. When the Water Trust merged with the Coalition in 2010, I was excited to continue serving on the board to provide continuity. It’s been a good run, and a great cause to be a part of.

Do you have a favorite creek or stream in the watershed?

My main hobby is whitewater rafting, but I enjoy all kinds of recreation around water. I love the West Fork of the Bitterroot, and I definitely frequent the Alberton Gorge. For fishing, I hit up Rock Creek and the upper stretch of the Blackfoot.

What’s the next volunteer opportunity on your plate?

I’ve been involved in Griz Kids for years, which is a board made up of ex-Griz football players. We hand out 50 tickets to to disadvantaged kids during each home game. I played for the Griz from 1985-1989, and it’s been really fun to help kids engage with the sport, and to be able to take care of them at the games.

Why would you ask others to contribute to the Clark Fork Coalition?

It’s pretty simple. Water is important. We always need it. In fact, we’re only going to need more of it—for agriculture, recreation, our communities. Donations to CFC make all the difference, especially for accomplishing the all-important job of getting the next generation in tune with keeping the watershed clean and healthy.

 

Beth Schenk, WSU-Providence Nurse Scientist/Sustainability Coordinator

Beth Schenk sits behind Traci Sylte during a field trip for Clark Fork Coalition board members.
Beth Schenk sits behind Traci Sylte during a field trip for Clark Fork Coalition board members.

What’s your favorite memory from serving on the board?

I really enjoyed the five-year strategic planning event in 2012. The board and staff got to spend two full days together. It was neat to see the broad scope of CFC’s work in one fell swoop, and to be able to vision what might be possible for the future. And it’s also been great to see everyone to stick to the plan—that makes it feel like a meaningful document, as well as a valuable experience to have helped create it.

What inspired you to volunteer for the river?

Community service is something I strongly believe in. Engagement is our civic duty. Here’s why I chose the Coalition: one, because it’s a solid and effective organization. Two, because the river is a thread of life in our region, and so important to the people who live here. Three, because I think about health a lot, and know that keeping our aquifer and rivers healthy contribute to keeping humans healthy, too.

Do you have a favorite creek or stream in the watershed?

I’ve lived near Rattlesnake Creek for 25 years, most of my adult life. I have a real connection to this tributary, and love watching the seasons change it. Right now, I’m watching deer walking along the creek through my window. That’s the great thing about water: it’s the unifier across all species.

What’s the next volunteer opportunity on your plate?

I’m actually involved in three other organizations right now. I’m the Co-Chair for the Institute of Health and Humanity, housed out of the University of Montana and St. Pat’s Foundation. I’m also on the national board of the Alliance of Nurses for a Healthy Environment. And one of my favorite projects right now is serving on the leadership group for Climate Smart Missoula, a new initiative in our community to foster partnerships and action that address climate change impacts.

Why would you ask others to contribute to the Clark Fork Coalition?

Because the Clark Fork River and its tributaries connect all of us. Water is crucial, it’s dwindling, and it’s something we need to protect and restore and educate people about. People can rest assured that they’re money is well-used if they donate to to the Coalition.

Make your year-end donation to the Clark Fork Coalition today!

 

*Stay tuned for the upcoming ballot in February, when CFC members can elect new directors for our board.


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