About Us

The Flathead Lake Biological Station (FLBS) is a University of Montana Center of Excellence that conducts ecological research with an emphasis on fresh water, particularly Flathead Lake and its watershed. The Bio Station offers summer field ecology courses for students from across the nation, and trains graduate students year-round. FLBS also provides scientific data and interpretation to help resolve environmental challenges and inform public policy. Founded in 1899, FLBS is one of the oldest active biological field research stations in the United States. Originally established in Bigfork, it was re-located to Yellow Bay on the East Shore of Flathead Lake in 1908.  Our 80-acre campus includes laboratories, classrooms and meeting rooms, boats, commercial kitchen, dining hall and housing for over 100 people. Facilities are available for educational conferences, seminars, courses and professional meetings. The Bio Station regularly hosts public events, including speakers and our Annual Open House which is typically the first week of August.