Governor Steve Bullock today announced Montanans earning minimum wage will see the rate increase to $8.75 per hour beginning January 1, 2021. "By tying the minimum wage to inflation, we can ensure Montanans earning the minimum wage see a modest increase and have the same buying power, instead of falling further behind,” Governor Bullock said. “We must continue to do more to help working families succeed by bringing in quality jobs, supporting Montana businesses, and investing in education and workforce training, especially as we continue to work toward economic recovery due to the pandemic.” In 2006 as a private citizen, Bullock led ballot initiative I-156 to raise the minimum wage and require that it be adjusted annually for inflation. Approved by Montana voters, Montana Code Annotated 39-3-409 requires the Montana Department of Labor & Industry to adjust the Montana minimum wage for inflation using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Consumers (CPI-U). An estimated 8,000 to 10,000 Montana workers, or 2 percent of the workforce, received hourly wages less than $8.75 per hour in 2020 and are likely to receive higher wages due to the 2021 minimum wage increase. In 2019, the industry with the largest number of workers earning minimum wage was the accommodations and food services industry. Many minimum-wage workers are front-line workers who are at the greatest risk of COVID-19 exposure.   The minimum wage is determined by taking the current minimum wage of $8.65 and increasing it by the CPI-U increase from August of 2019 to August 2020. The CPI-U increased by 1.31% (unadjusted) over the year ending August 2020. To keep the minimum wage at the same purchasing power as the prior year, the wage should increase by $0.11 per hour. However, since state statute requires the wage to rounded to the nearest 5 cents, the 2021 minimum wage rate will be $8.75.  In 2020, the District of Columbia and 29 U.S. states, including Montana, have minimum wage rates that exceed the federal rate of $7.25 per hour. A map of state minimum wage laws is available on the U.S. Department of Labor’s website at http://www.dol.gov/whd/minwage/america.htm . For more information on minimum wage in Montana, visit DLI’s Research and Analysis Bureau’s website at http://lmi.mt.gov/Publications/minimum-wage-fact-sheet-3 . Additional information can also be found on DLI’s Labor Standard’s Bureau at http://erd.dli.mt.gov/labor-standards .

The Montana DPHHS has a new way of releasing Covid numbers. This gives you a more detailed look at how the cases breakdown in schools, nursing homes, and hospital use and bed capacities. This information will be updated every Wednesday by the state of Montana. Hopefully by providing this information it will help with the questions many people in the public have been asking for. Numbers in Beaverhead County are as follows: University of Montana Western 30 cases Beaverhead County Schools High School - 1 positive case among students, 0 positive cases with staff Dillon Middle School - 1 positive case among students, 0 positive cases with staff Parkview Elementary school - 1 positive case among students, 0 with staff For more detailed breakdowns please see the photos below. You can also follow the link provided below as well. https://dphhs.mt.gov/publichealth/cdepi/diseases/coronavirusmt/demographics

After a few glitches with Zoom, the city council started off with the swearing in of Dillon's newest Police Officer. Officer Bowman is the newest addition to the Dillon Police force. Officer Aaron Bowman came to Dillon four years ago to attend college at the University of Montana Western. He decided he wanted to take a different path in life and worked as a patrolman and jailor for Beaverhead County. He is a fourth-generation law enforcement. Next was the approval for the revising the request of distribution of funds for bridge and road safety. The discussion was interrupted with Council Person Rich Wassell asking a question. 13 min mark "Mr. Mayor was there a delay in getting Zoom up this evening." Then asking for the record to show that he attempted to join the meeting three times, before the meeting started and someone made a setting change to let him in. At the 16min 30 sec mark Discussion of lease of property to Highschool for use of parking lot. Council person Mary Jo O'Rourke brought up the question why lease this ground why not sell it. The reason for leasing the property was in case the city needed the property for future use. The high school did not have the extra money to purchase said property and finding an appraisal on this would be almost impossible. 20 min mark Request from Jack Eddie to paint a blue line down Montana street and Helena street. Council person Wassell asked if this should be assigned to the street and alley committee. Mayor Klakken stated the requestors wanted to get approval before the winter. Whole discussion can be seen on the video. 40 Min Mark Hearing on October 13th to discuss new zoning for a agricultural bulk storage classification. Council person Mary Jo O'Rourke asked the question if they would want to revisit this with the active cases of Covid-19. Council person O' Rourke stated: "We are here in a room with most people without mask. At least 50 percent." Southwestern Montana News observed three people not wearing mask. Council person Wassell interjected with the numbers of cases the state had this day, and they should reconsider to a different day as well. Council person Wassell also stated he was dissatisfied with Zoom and he had to wait to be let in, and this is unacceptable. The whole exchange can be seen on included link. 1-hour 7 min mark The heated discussion of the night approve amendment to council rules of procedure, this is involving the need for a council person's to vote in person, and not via Zoom. Many council members interpret the law as the only way you can vote via Zoom is if an emergency is declared. When the state moved to phase one it allowed the City Council to use Zoom to hold meetings. After the state moved to phase 2 we were no longer in an emergency state. Many council members see using Zoom now is against the law and a person needs to be in physical attendance to cast a vote. Council person Graham believes from reading the Attorney Generals guidelines is that it states Zoom should only be used for emergency meetings, and if you are going to hold nonemergency meetings then you need to attend them in person. The only essential meeting then that the City of Dillon should have met for was to approve the budget, and what else is essential to keeping the City of Dillon open. This discussion has a few heated exchanges, between a couple council members. We would recommend you watch this as it does affect the way the City holds meetings and what could be a possible violation of law by holding a Zoom meeting and making votes via Zoom. This gives you a clear unbiased view on what the city is trying to implement and why they want to pass this ordinance. 2-hour 12 min mark Council Person Russ Schwandt talks about Oct 16th county health board meeting as well as "action a foot" statewide, with health boards having more power to deal with air quality, septic tanks, and water quality. There is legislation coming before the state, and the only opposition is negative impact health boards have had because of COVID. 2-hour 16 min mark Council person Wassell wants the tree board minutes to show that he attended the meeting. Mayor Klakken as well as Council person O'Rourke stated they did not have the meeting on the bus, and the meeting was held when they got back to council chambers. Council person Wassell wanted to have the minutes show even though he was fallowing the bus in his own car he was at the meeting. Again, this is another problem with using Zoom or calling in on what the definition of a meeting would include. The whole exchange can be seen on the link provided. Our next scheduled live stream is the City Zoning on 10/13/2020, followed by the County Health Board on 10/16/2020. Be sure to follow us on all our social media platforms, as we have livestreaming, and all the news that is happening in Southwestern Montana.

In anticipation of next week’s two-day youth deer hunt, Oct. 15 and 16, as well as the general season opener on Oct. 24, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks encourages mail-in certification for eligible Apprentice Hunters. COVID-19 safety protocols are in place at FWP offices and lobby occupancy is limited, therefore wait times outside may be longer than in years past. If you can, please get your apprentice hunter certified well before the youth hunt and/or the general season opener. It’s not too late to complete the certification process by mail if you act now. The apprentice certification process must take place at the FWP regional offices. Once the certification process is complete, licenses may be purchased at any license provider that may be convenient for you. If you have questions about how to get your apprentice hunter certified ahead of the rush, please call your regional office as listed below. The "Apprentice Hunter" law allows anyone 10 years of age or older to hunt two license years without completing hunter education. An apprentice must recertify through an FWP office if taking advantage of this program for a second year. An apprentice hunter may not obtain a big horn sheep, black bear, mountain lion, wolf or elk license if under the age of 15. The cost of the certification is $5, once that process is complete then you may purchase the applicable licenses. Apprentice hunters, ages 10-15, may hunt in the two-day youth deer hunt and throughout the general season. FWP recommends that people interested in this program read the Apprentice Hunter Program packet before seeking certification through your regional office. The packet outlines guidelines for both the apprentice and the required mentor, including what apprentices can and cannot do, who can act as a mentor, and how the certification process works. The application packet is available on the FWP website . Regional Headquarters Region 1 (Kalispell) 406-752-5501, 490 N. Meridian Rd, Kalispell, MT 59901 Region 2 (Missoula) 406-542-5500, 3201 Spurgin Rd, Missoula MT 59804 Region 3 (Bozeman) 406-577-7900, 1400 S. 19th Ave, Bozeman, MT 59718 Region 4 (Great Falls) 406-454-5840, 4600 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405 Region 5 (Billings) 406-247-2940, 2300 Lake Elmo Drive, Billings, MT 59105 Region 6 (Glasgow) 406-228-3700, 1 Airport Rd, Glasgow, MT 59230 Region 7 (Miles City) 406-234-0900, 352 I-94 Business Loop, Miles City, MT 59301 FWP Headquarters front desk 406-444-2535, or Helena Licensing 406-444-2950. P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620.

Doubling Montana Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund will provide significant relief for 43,000 Montana businesses Governor Steve Bullock today announced he is directing $200 million in state Coronavirus Relief Funds to effectively double the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund and prevent the thousands of Montana businesses who pay into unemployment insurance from experiencing an 85 percent spike in their tax rate. “Montana businesses have already been hit hard once due to COVID-19 and its economic impacts. The last thing we want is to see them hit hard twice by significantly increasing unemployment insurance rates,” Governor Bullock said. “Boosting the trust fund will have a real impact on the ground for tens of thousands of Montana businesses next year and for years to come and will play a key role in the state’s economic recovery.” “Business owners in Montana are doing all they can to navigate the economic challenges presented by COVID-19,” Todd O’Hair, president and CEO of the Montana Chamber of Commerce, said.  “Every bit of assistance helps, and this smart use of Coronavirus Relief Funds will bring some needed predictability to unemployment insurance rates as we emerge from the pandemic.” Montana has one of the strongest unemployment insurance trust funds in the country, but the fund has been significantly tapped due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The unemployment insurance tax rate is typically set at the end of October each year and this year’s rate would have resulted in an increase in the average employer contribution rate of at least 85 percent. Paying $200 million into the trust fund will bring the total to nearly $400 million and ensure the department can continue paying unemployment insurance to those who need it without overwhelming Montana businesses. Current estimates projects this will save Montana businesses millions in tax increases over the next several years, relieving them from a required rate increase under state law to ensuring funding is available for benefits. Montana’s UI Trust Fund is financed through a tax on eligible wages from employers, using a multifaceted rate schedule. A lower balance in the UI Trust Fund results in higher UI rate schedules in adherence with state law to ensure the funds are adequate to meet demand. Without this infusion, projections estimate the rates would need to move to from Schedule 1 to Schedule 7. There are 11 possible schedules. After the Great Recession, it took rates approximately eight years to return to Schedule 1, reaching a height of Schedule 7 in 2009 and 2010, slowly ramping down over that time. As with any year, individual businesses may still see changes in their contribution rates based on their specific experience, such as hiring additional employees. However, these shifts are minor compared to the avoided overall rate impact that would have occurred without this transfer. Governor Bullock committed an additional $4 million in Coronavirus Relief Funds that will be distributed to the Montana Department of Labor & Industry to pay the employer share of reimbursable entities such as non-profits, which do not pay unemployment taxes, but rather reimburse the state when a claim is charged against their account. Under the CARES Act, non-profits are eligible for a 50 percent reimbursement from the federal government. The $4 million will be allocated to cover the remaining 50 percent. By state statute, rates must be assigned by October 31. The $200 million in Coronavirus Relief Funds will be paid immediately to prevent the rate increase from going into effect in 2021. Rate schedules and employer contributions paid between 2009 and 2019 are available at http://uid.dli.mt.gov/Portals/55/Documents/news/UI_Quick_Facts_10_Year.pdf . As of September 28, 2020, 13 states had used Coronavirus Relief Funds to backfill their UI Trust Fund, 19 states are already borrowing from the US Treasury to pay UI benefits, and two more have advance authorization to begin borrowing.

Are you ready for hunting season? FWP can help. In addition to the following hunting forecast, FWP provides online information about hunting access, including our popular Block Management Program. Through the program, we coordinate with landowners to provide hunting access to more than 7 million acres of private land. The interactive Hunt Planner map allows users to look at information for various species, including hunting districts and regulations. The hunt planner interactive map is a great way to access our block management information, so if you’re planning a hunt in a certain area, you can see if there are Block Management Areas available to expand your opportunity. And, as always, you can contact our helpful staff at any of our regional offices around the state. They’re happy to help and can often get you pointed in the right direction with just a few simple tips. Montana has some of the longest hunting seasons in the West, healthy herds of game and access to millions of acres of public land. However, hunters must be mindful of fire danger and of private landowners who are facing grass shortages, poor crop production and fatigue from monitoring for fire. Hunter harvest helps to reduce wildlife densities on a stressed landscape, and perhaps to help lessen winter depredation on haystacks or winter range.  Here are a few things hunters can do to show respect for private landowners during this dry season: avoid vehicle use in areas with dry grass in the median use caution when parking in areas with dry vegetation report smoke or any signs of fire to local officials carry a fire extinguisher or water to quickly snuff any potential fires. Destination: NORTHWEST MONTANA Northwest Montana experienced a mild winter last year, which resulted in good adult and fawn survival for white-tailed deer . Overall numbers should be similar or slightly higher than last year. There should also be an increase in the number of yearling bucks on the landscape.   In 2019, FWP detected chronic wasting disease in white-tailed deer, mule deer, and moose in the Libby area. Hunters need to be aware of the Libby CWD Management Zone, which includes portions of HDs 100, 103 and 104. Testing for CWD is voluntary, and harvested animals can be checked at the Libby Special CWD Hunt Sampling Station (Montana Department of Transportation shop on US Hwy 2, mile marker 35) during certain days of the week. Please check fwp.mt.gov for details. This fall, hunters without game will be directed to quickly move through FWP check stations. The mild winter resulted in increased adult and fawn survival of mule deer . Overall numbers should be similar last year with an increase in young bucks. Hunters are reminded to check the regulations as only antlered bucks may be harvested in Region 1 and there are areas in HD 103 and HD 109 that require a permit to hunt mule deer.   In areas where surveys were conducted, elk calf recruitment was higher than it has been in the last three years. Overall, elk numbers should be similar to last year. Elk hunting is challenging in northwest Montana due to difficult terrain, heavily forested areas and densities relatively lower than other area in Montana. Elk distribution will likely change from now through the archery season. Hunters are advised to do their homework and look for areas in the back country away from roads and high hunting pressure.   This fall, hunters without game will be directed to quickly move through FWP check stations. Following decreases in moose harvest in Hunting District 105, FWP reduced the total number of licenses available to 12. Despite these statistics, FWP has consistently seen a much higher number of moose, including moose with calves, during collaring efforts (which happen to occur a little later than surveys each year). Rather than rely solely on survey and harvest data to tell us about trends in moose numbers, FWP began collaring moose in HD 105 (and in two other study areas) in 2013. Thus far, the study has revealed that none of the study areas’ moose populations are in dire straits, and the HD 105 study area has high adult cow survival rate. Overall, black bear numbers appear to be steady in northwest Montana. Great berry crops this summer and fall could mean bears are dispersed, which may make them more challenging to find this fall. Look for areas with abundant food sources like huckleberries, service berries, choke cherries and mountain ash.   All successful bear hunters will be required to report their bear harvest through the FWP Harvest Reporting Line 1-877-FWP-WILD (1-877-397-9453) within 48 hours of harvest. Unlike in years past, FWP will not require or conduct a carcass inspection, hide seal or tooth collection. This fall season, FWP is asking successful bear hunters to voluntarily submit a bear tooth of harvested bears to FWP. The tooth will be sent to a laboratory where the age of the bear will be determined. FWP biologists use this age information, along with the sex of the bear, to manage bear populations in Montana. For more information, visit fwp.mt.gov. Northwest Montana has abundant wolf numbers. Record harvests in the 2018 and 2019 seasons likely reduced numbers to some extent, but overall populations are healthy. Wolf license costs were reduced for the 2020 season. Despite good numbers, wolves can be difficult to find and often move long distances. If hunters want to be successful, scouting and understanding wolf behavior is important.   For information on hunting safely in grizzly country, please visit igbconline.org/hunters /. Destination: WESTERN MONTANA Elk aerial surveys in western Montana were interrupted by the COVID virus this spring. While counts were completed in the Upper Clark Fork before the COVID shutdown, elk counts using aircraft were not done in the rest of Region 2. Upper Clark Fork elk were found in good numbers, including the reappearances of elk that had been missing in the 2019 counts due to the hard winter. The mild winter of 2020 contributed to a rebound in overwinter calf survival, which was observed widely across Region 2, whether documented using aircraft or in ground surveys conducted in most of the region. Hunters hoping to participate in elk shoulder seasons this fall or winter are reminded to review the hunting regulations closely. Shoulder seasons over the past few years achieved their desired effect in many places, which means that elk regulations were adjusted this year to shorten or remove shoulder seasons in many districts. In most hunting districts, elk hunters will not find an over-the-counter B-License available this year for shoulder seasons. White-tailed deer numbers have been on an upward trend in general, but previous hard winters have dampened fawn survival. The mild winter in 2020 was a welcome relief and fawn production looks good this summer. Good moisture and excellent forage production should benefit all deer. Opportunities to hunt mule deer are somewhat limited in western Montana. Many districts require a permit or B-license, awarded through the statewide application and drawing process earlier this year. Mule deer hunters should plan to go high in the mountains for the best opportunity at bigger bucks. An emerging opportunity for hunters in Region 2 is to hunt mule deer on private lands, where numbers generally are growing. Again, pay close attention to the regulations to make sure you are properly licensed to hunt mule deer. There are only a few antelope hunting opportunities in western Montana, where the population of antelope is around 400. Hunting is limited to a few hunters who received a license through a special drawing. For more information on antelope, deer and elk numbers and hunting opportunities in western Montana, check out the FWP Region 2 Wildlife Quarterly, available online at fwp.mt.gov/regions/r2/wildlifeQuarterly.html . Destination: SOUTHWEST MONTANA As with most years, overall elk hunting success is expected to be influenced by snowfall. If early-season snow accumulation occurs, seasonal migrations toward winter range will soon follow, and more hunter harvest can be expected. If dry conditions continue through the fall, hunters should expect difficult elk hunting and average to below-average harvest. Elk numbers are good around Helena , including hunting districts (HDs) 318, 335, 339 and 343. While no survey was completed for mule deer this spring, given two years of poor fawn recruitment, overall numbers are expected to be low for the area compared to past seasons and likely still below the long-term average. Doe licenses remain low in all these districts. Elk numbers in the Big Belts (HDs 390 and 391) remain above objective, with a mild winter last year and low harvest last fall. Large numbers of elk can be found on private land where hunters must first secure landowner permission before hunting. National Forest land in HD 391 is open to brow-tined bull elk-only on a general license this year, which is a change from recent years. Also, elk shoulder seasons in HDs 390 and 391 will only run through Jan. 1 this year. Deer numbers in HDs 390 and 391 have been down from long-term averages, particularly on National Forest land, with numbers being better on private land. This year there is no unlimited mule deer buck permit in these two districts; this was replaced with allowing hunters to harvest any antlered buck with a general license. Please consult the current regulations for updates. Biologists observed lower-than-expected fawn production in antelope HD 371. But overwinter survival appears to be good, and antelope fawn production was good in districts 380 and 390. Deer and elk numbers in the east Pintler, Beaverhead and Highland ranges (HDs 319, 321, 334, 340, 341 and 370) are stable, and hunters should expect comparable opportunities to last year. For HD 350, the liberal elk season in recent years has been effective in reducing the population, so the season is now back to a standard regulation with brow-tined bulls on the general license and limited antlerless harvest opportunity allocated through the drawing. Antelope hunting districts managed by the Butte area wildlife biologist are surveyed every other year. This year HDs 341, 350 and 370 were flown. Populations in HDs 341 and 370 are robust while in HD 350 numbers are down slightly with a noticeable decline in fawn numbers, while the buck segment appears robust at 40 bucks per 100 does. Hunters with antelope HD 318 and 329 licenses are reminded that the boundary between these two districts has been changed and should check the regulations for the new boundary. The Tendoy elk management unit (HDs 300, 302 and 328) continued to exceed management objectives after the 2019 hunting season, and long-term data trends indicate a stable population. Post-season 2019 counts in the Pioneer Mountains elk management unit (HDs 329, 331 and 332) were lower than last year and slightly below management objectives. However, counts remained slightly above the long-term average. Across the Pioneer elk management unit, the population appears relatively stable over the long term. However, the distribution of elk has changed over time. Elk in HD 331 have traditionally wintered largely within this district, but in recent years have opted to winter in adjoining districts. These sorts of distribution changes are a continuing challenge for elk management and for hunters looking for opportunities to harvest elk. Hunter success will continue to be influenced by snow accumulations that are sufficient to induce elk migration to accessible areas. Spring mule deer counts in the East Pioneers (HD 331) and Lima Peaks (HD 300) were higher in 2020 than the previous year. Counts in both areas indicate population growth in recent years; however, counts in the East Pioneers continue to be lower than the long-term average. Post-hunting season classification surveys show above-average buck-to-doe ratios in recent years in the East Pioneers, Tendoy Mountains and Lima Peaks (HDs 331, 302 and 300). Buck harvest in Upper Horse Prairie (HD 328) has remained relatively stable since the mid-2000s. Recent buck harvest in the Horse Prairie/Bannack area continues to improve over the lows observed in the mid-2000s. The West Pioneer (HD 332) has seen a reduction in buck harvest over the past two years, similar to lows seen in the mid-2000s. Recent pronghorn counts in the Lima Peaks (HD 301) and East Pioneers (HD 310) have been above average, and the long-term trend indicates stable (HD 301) to increasing (HD 310) numbers. Fawn production counts are highly variable but do show an increase over time in HD 301. In contrast, fawn production counts have been slightly below average in HD 310 in recent years. Recent pronghorn surveys in HD 300 and HD 329 show continued population declines. These declines are associated with similar declines in fawn production. Definitive information concerning the causes for declining pronghorn numbers and fawn production is lacking. However, these declines may be related to habitat degradation. Conifer encroachment into sage brush habitat may be reducing habitat quality and/or quantity. The 2019-20 winter was lighter than in 2018-19, so ungulate survival was generally robust in the Bridger, Gallatin and Madison ranges ( deer and elk HDs 301, 309, 310, 311, 321, 360, 361 and 362; and pronghorn HDs 311 and 360). For the Bridger, Gallatin and Madison ranges, elk counts are within or above objective for all areas except HD 310, which continues to be below objective. Mule deer and white-tailed deer are trending at or above average in most areas. Pronghorn numbers are within long-term averages for HDs 311 and 360, but due to low survival through the winter of 2018-19, doe/fawn licenses have been reduced in both areas. Winter conditions in the east Gallatin, Absaroka and east Crazy mountain ranges ( deer and elk HDs 313, 314, 315, 317, and 393) did not result in substantial winter mortality. Elk numbers are generally at or above objective, and deer numbers remain within long-term averages. Antelope numbers were up in antelope HD 340 and down slightly in HD 339. Antelope numbers were down in HD 313, and the license quota was reduced in order to maintain a conservative harvest opportunity while continuing to allow the population to expand. Following the 2019 hunting season, elk populations in the Tobacco Root (HDs 320 and 333) and Gravelly (HDs 322, 323, 324, 325, 326, 327 and 330) elk management units remain above management objective. Most elk and elk harvest in HD 333 will be distributed outside of National Forest lands. Holders of the 333-01 elk B-license should be aware that the license is valid only outside of National Forest lands. Hunters will need to obtain private landowner permission to access many of these elk. White-tailed deer populations in the Ruby Valley increased from two years ago. These deer are found primarily on private land, so landowner permission will be required to get to them. White-tailed deer hunting throughout public lands and tributaries will be opportunistic and subject to weather. Mule deer population surveys in the Tobacco Root (HD 320) and Blacktail (HD 325) mountains showed population growth relative to 2019, while the survey in the Sweetwater Hills (HD 326) showed a stable population. The number of mule deer observed by hunters in these areas is expected to remain relatively comparable to the past two years. The pronghorn population on the west side of the Tobacco Root Mountains (HD 320) remained low following significant winter mortality during early 2019. Pronghorn hunting licenses remain reduced in response to the change. The majority of pronghorn in the hunting district will be found in the southern half of the district between Sheridan and Virginia City. Pronghorn surveys of HD 321 showed some decline relative to two years ago. However, the population remained above the long-term average. Hunters may encounter some changes to how some Bureau of Land Management and Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation motorized routes are signed around Dillon. Agencies are making efforts to sign roads that are not open for motorized travel as closed. This is part of an effort to improve public understanding of public lands travel routes. Before you drive out to this area, inquire with the local BLM office to get maps and current information for open and drivable roads. Hunters who plan to hunt in the Gravelly, Centennial, Greenhorn, south Tobacco Root, Madison, Gallatin and Absaroka ranges should be exceptionally cautious of grizzly bear activity. For information on hunting safely in grizzly country, please visit igbconline.org/hunters /. Destination: NORTH CENTRAL MONTANA Hunters can generally expect to find average or slightly above average numbers of most big game species along with good hunting opportunities in north central Montana during the upcoming hunting season. Last winter’s mostly favorable weather conditions led to good survival rates among deer, elk and antelope, although populations in some areas are still recovering from severe winters in the past. Near Great Falls , biologist Jake Doggett reports that elk are doing well in the Highwood Mountains and Devils Kitchen areas, where numbers remain above long-term averages. Overwinter calf survival was also good, resulting in good recruitment into the population. Elk numbers are slightly below average in the Little Belts (hunting district 413). Mule deer numbers in the agricultural areas near Great Falls are generally doing well, while populations in the mountainous areas are still rebounding from lower numbers of the past few years. White-tailed deer numbers remain strong and should provide good opportunities for hunters. Surveys suggest that antelope are recovering from the tough winters of 2017 and 2018 across the area. Numbers are still below long-term averages, but fawn production was good, especially in areas with more cropland. Jay Kolbe, FWP Wildlife Biologist based in White Sulphur Springs reports that mule deer in his area are still recovering from significant declines seen about 10 years ago. Mild weather during the 2019 big game season led to lower than average elk harvest in the area, which should result in a few more bulls for hunters to chase in the upcoming year. Antelope fawn production has been good in the last few years and herds have either been steady or increasing around the Little Belts and east Big Belts . Brent Lonner is FWP’s wildlife biologist for the southern Rocky Mountain Front , and his winter/spring 2020 surveys of the Sun River elk herd showed strong numbers of bulls, with a calculated brow-tined bull to cow ratio of approximately 25:100. Harvest and survey data portray overall Sun River elk numbers near the lower end of objective range (2,250 to 2,750 elk) along with continued low calf recruitment, so antlerless harvest opportunity has been reduced for this herd in the 2020 hunting season. In other districts along the southern Rocky Mountain Front, elk numbers are at or above long-term averages. Hunting District 422 remains well above its population objective levels of 450 to 550 elk. Lonner’s recent winter/spring survey data portray just over 1,100 observed elk with fair calf recruitment into the population. Liberal harvest opportunity remains in this district to include early and late shoulder season hunting opportunity on both a general license and or elk B licenses. The Birdtail Hills area (districts 421 and 423) remains above its population objective of 400 – 600 elk with just under 700 elk observed in surveys this past winter. As a result, early and late shoulder season hunting opportunities will also be available for this hunting season. Mule deer numbers along the Southern Rocky Mountain Front , and overall hunting opportunity remains the same as in recent years. Buck to doe ratios are considered good at 24 bucks per 100 does. Fawns born in 2019 were aided in their overwinter survival by mild weather, and subsequent 2020 spring recruitment was near average at 35 fawns per 100 adults. White-tailed deer numbers remain strong in the area, especially along river corridors and in agricultural grounds, with spring 2020 observed numbers in the lower Sun and Teton rivers at 47 percent and 23 percent above long-term averages. Lonner reports continued improvement of overall antelope numbers for districts 440 and 444, although some areas are doing better than others. Within hunting district 444, strong buck numbers and fair to good fawn production led to an increase in either-sex licenses for the first time in several years. Along the northern Rocky Mountain Front , biologist Ryan Rauscher reports that elk numbers are generally above their long-term average, with bull to cow ratios at or near average. In the Sweetgrass Hills, elk numbers remain well over objective, giving hunters opportunity to harvest antlerless elk. Although fawn numbers appear to be down slightly, mule deer populations remain above average overall. White-tailed deer numbers are increasing across much of Rauscher’s area, although the lower Marias and Teton still have localized pockets of lower numbers due to previous outbreaks of EHD (epizootic hemorrhagic disease) and habitat changes. In the western portions of his districts, Rauscher reports that white-tailed deer numbers are robust and should provide good harvest opportunities for both bucks and antlerless deer. Antelope population numbers in the Golden Triangle are mixed. Near the Sweetgrass Hills, antelope are well under long term averages, resulting in no increase in license numbers, but sufficient to provide good hunting opportunities for those fortunate enough to draw a license, especially in the southern half of district 401 on private land where permission to hunt from the landowner is required. In the heart of the Golden Triangle district of HD 404, antelope numbers have seen a steady increase from lows in 2017, and license numbers have been increased to reflect that rise. Destination: SOUTH CENTRAL MONTANA Elk populations throughout south central Montana remain robust. The number of elk accessible by hunters on national forest and other public lands is small, however. The biggest concentration of elk is on private land where access and associated harvest opportunities are limited. Mule deer numbers in hunting districts 502, 510, 520 and 575 – mostly in Carbon and southern Stillwater counties – are at record lows. Seasons have been liberalized in some areas along the Wyoming border since 2017 in response to chronic wasting disease being discovered in deer for the first time in Montana. Based on limited ground observations and last fall’s harvest data, it appears that mule deer numbers remain slightly below average in the Boulder River area and north of the Yellowstone River in hunting districts 570 and 580. In the Musselshell River and Flatwillow Creek corridors, mule deer numbers are similar to last year and the number of fawns seems good. White-tailed deer numbers east of the Crazy Mountains and in the Musselshell River and Flatwillow Creek are above the long-term average. In the Boulder River area and north of the Yellowstone River numbers are near average. Along the Beartooth front, white-tailed deer numbers are quite low with some improvement as one moves north. Generally, opportunities in south central Montana will be similar to last year. Antelope numbers measured by biologists this summer are generally below average – but stable and similar to last year – throughout south central Montana. The exception is hunting district 570 between Columbus and Harlowton, where antelope numbers remain slightly above average. Destination: NORTHEAST MONTANA Mule deer populations are high across the region but vary depending on the hunting district. Overall, post-season surveys showed the region-wide population at 79 percent above average. Winter mortality was likely minimal across the region during the 2019-2020 winter based on observations and reports. Due to increasing quota numbers, there may be surplus tags still available in some districts. Please look at the fwp.mt.gov website for the most up-to-date information on surplus licenses. White-tailed deer densities continue to remain stable across the region. The 2020 survey showed white-tailed deer density averages of 10.6 deer-per-square mile across the trend areas, which is right at the long-term average of 10.7 deer-per-square mile. The surveys did see a decrease from the 2019 survey of 9 percent. Late summer did bring epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) to parts of the region, and this may impact populations in some areas. A single-region antlerless whitetail B-license will again be available for over the counter purchase, with a limit of one per hunter. Additionally, some whitetail B licenses may be available in surplus. Please look at the fwp.mt.gov website for the most up-to-date information on surplus licenses. Elk surveys in the Missouri River Breaks in 2020 found similar number of elk compared to the 2018 survey, which is around 15 percent below the long-term average. Elk numbers in the Bears Paw area were above the 15-year average based on the 2018 aerial survey. In general, antelope populations have been slowly increasing across the region. While some survey areas have observed increased numbers and are at or above their long-term averages, there are still a few areas where antelope are still below their long-term average. Antelope licenses are distributed through the drawing system. Major reductions in licenses were seen following the winter of 2010-11, however some increase in licenses have been seen since that time. Those who have drawn licenses should have a good opportunity to harvest an antelope. Remember to ask first for permission to hunt on private land. Destination: SOUTHEAST MONTANA Southeast Montana experienced another summer with good rainfall, but conditions are rapidly drying out and fire restrictions are being implemented. The past couple of summers the region has received good rainfall followed by mild winters, creating favorable conditions for wildlife.  Rifle deer hunters should expect to spend time glassing this season, since high vegetation offers better concealment. Aerial surveys of deer populations in southeast Montana indicate that both mule deer and white-tailed deer remain above long-term average numbers.  “Abundant precipitation last year made for good forage conditions and deer going into winter in good body condition,” said Wildlife Biologist Melissa Foster. “The winter was mild for southeast Montana, so deer had enough 'gas in the tank' to make it through to spring green-up.”  FWP received no reports of widespread winterkills of deer.   “Mule deer are looking good,” Foster said, “Numbers are about 15 percent above last year and 33 percent above long-term average.”  Foster determines long-term average by tracing survey data back to the 1996-97 season and harvest figures back to 1976. Surveys show mule deer population density in southeast Montana has been increasing since about 2012, when deer numbers began to rebound from a crash following back-to-back bitter winters. In 2016, deer reached the highest density recorded in the past three decades. The recruitment rate for mule deer fawns is also solid, climbing steadily since 2010. “This spring we saw a recruitment of 61 fawns per 100 adults,” Foster said. “Similarly, mule deer buck harvest is 17 percent above long-term average.”  The spring surveys conducted by Region 7’s four area biologists indicated buck-to-doe ratios remain at a strong 37 bucks per 100 does. “We’ve had good precipitation again this year, although the summer has been hotter and drier than the last couple years, but still mule deer look to be in good shape with respect to fawn production and survival,” she said. “Deer should again be going into the hunting season and winter in good body condition.”  It is a balancing act to keep deer numbers at a level that provides opportunity but doesn’t exceed the land’s carrying capacity. High deer numbers can mean inadequate winter browse and thermal cover, and harsh winters can compound this effect. Whitetail populations are also about average. “Whitetails counts were overall 11 percent above last year, but trend areas in different parts of the region had mixed results,” Foster said. “Whitetails in core river bottom habitat were generally well above long-term average, whereas whitetails in upland agricultural/brushy habitats were right at long-term average or a little bit below long-term average. Buck harvest was 5 percent above long-term average last fall. Recruitment is still good, averaging 53 fawns per 100 adults.”  “All in all, I'd say whitetail numbers are about average for our neck of the woods, and as is typical for whitetails, numbers are booming in some spots and down in others, on a very localized scale,” she said. “Buck-to-doe ratios for whitetail are at 34 bucks per 100 does.” Archery antelope hunters targeting water holes should expect fewer encounters since there are more options for critters to water. “Antelope populations are variable across southeastern Montana,” according to Wildlife Biologist Ryan DeVore. “Herds in central and eastern Montana were hit hard by harsh winters in the late 2000s and early 2010s. The rate of recovery since then has been mixed in southeastern Montana. Antelope numbers in the southern half of the region (primarily HDs 704 and 705) continue to be strong. During summer surveys, biologists observed over eight antelope per square mile in the very southeast corner of the state, which transitioned to approximately three to four antelope per square mile in the more northerly portions of HD 705, and fewer than two antelope per square mile throughout most of HDs 700, 701, 702 and 703. The average buck ratio across Region 7 is 48 bucks per 100 does prior to this hunting season; however, buck ratios are variable, with better ratios in the southern portion of Region 7. “For example, in the antelope trend area north of Hysham, 32 fawns per 100 does were observed, which is quite low,” said Wildlife Biologist Steve Atwood. “While that area has a strong complement of bucks in the population, unless a landowner in that specific area is requesting does harvested, I encourage hunters to seek out areas of the region with higher antelope numbers to fill doe licenses. “The message here is that the extra windshield time to reach the southeast corner of Region 7 is absolutely worth it,” Foster said. “Hunters will find better densities and good public land opportunity in this remote portion of Region 7.” FWP is offering similar numbers of Region 7 either-sex and doe/fawn rifle licenses as in the last few years. Region-wide, doe/fawn licenses (007-30) remain relatively low at 1,500, where they have been since 2016. In order to take advantage of better populations in the southern portion of Region 7, a newer opportunity is the 799-30 doe/fawn license, which is valid only in HDs 704 and 705 . It is a second opportunity license that is available only to those hunters who drew a 007-20 and/or 007-30 antelope license (which are valid in all of Region 7). The 799-30 license is available one per hunter. Hunters may hold up to three antelope licenses in a given year, only one of which may be an either-sex license. Again, those wishing to harvest an antelope in southeastern Montana, especially a doe or fawn, will have the greatest opportunity in the southern portion of the region. These are good times for elk hunters, as Montana elk populations continue to be strong across most of the state. In many hunting districts, however, access to private lands can be difficult, which can affect hunting success given landownership patterns and distribution of elk. Even if you didn't draw a special permit this year, remember that Montana offers numerous opportunities to hunt for elk with just a general hunting license. In recent years, winter surveys indicated that elk populations in southeast Montana are continuing moderate growth and gradual expansion into unoccupied available habitat. FWP biologists typically observe strong calf recruitment and an excellent composition of bulls. The Missouri Breaks (HD) and Custer Forest Elk Management Unit (HDs 702, 704, 705) remain the two “core” elk populations. Outside of these areas, elk numbers across the region are low, distribution is spotty and elk are primarily found on private land, where public hunting access is limited. Bull hunting is by permit only in HDs 700, 702, 704, 705 and the far western portion of 701. In HD 703 and in the rest of 701, hunters can pursue either-sex elk with a general license. Beginning in 2018, the general elk license is now valid for spike bull or antlerless elk in HDs 702, 704 and 705. Previously, it was only valid for antlerless elk. This change provides more opportunity for sportsmen, reduces accidental harvest of spike bulls, and is not expected to have a measurable impact on bull numbers. See regulations to determine which lands the general elk license is valid for during the archery and general seasons. Additional antlerless opportunities exist in the region via a general and/or B-license, and hunters are encouraged to review the regulations for more details on those opportunities. It is important for hunters to note that there are no elk shoulder seasons in any of the Region 7 hunting districts.

Governor Steve Bullock today visited critical infrastructure projects to improve the Lockwood Sewer and Water District and the early construction of the Yellowstone River Bridge segment of the Billings Bypass to highlight how infrastructure investments across the state are supporting economic vitality and fostering good-paying jobs. “We are making long-term investments in urban and rural communities across Montana that bring quality jobs to the area and make critical updates that will sustain economic growth,” Governor Bullock said. “These projects are making our communities safer and build a strong future for Montana that will benefit generations to come.” The Lockwood sewer project was made possible in part by a suite of infrastructure bills signed by Governor Bullock in 2019 to fund nearly $400 million in long overdue sewer, water, bridges, buildings, and other public works projects. The legislation marked the first time the legislature has agreed to a comprehensive statewide bond package in over a decade. Last week, the state sold $52.2 million in bonds at historically low rates to continue moving forward with infrastructure projects. Over $32 million in existing bonds were refinanced to take advantage of lower interest rates and save taxpayers $7 million. The legislation included investments in a new Montana Heritage Center, the renovation of Romney Hall at Montana State University, a new Dental Clinic, Assisting and Hygiene Lab at Great Falls College, 14 replaced or repaired bridges, and 51 water, wastewater and storm system projects. The Billings Bypass is a $100 million project funded with a federal and matching state funds. The project is led by the Montana Department of Transportation. Construction on the Yellowstone River Bridge segment has just recently commenced and will finish in 2021. There are currently over 70 infrastructure projects under construction across the state.

Governor’s Proclamation I hereby order all flags flown in the State of Montana to be displayed at half-staff on Sunday, October 4th, 2020 for “Fire Prevention Week” and for the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. We take pause to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty protecting lives and property from fire and renew our appreciation for those who put themselves in harm’s way to serve their community and state each and every day. Dated this 3rd day of October 2020. STEVE BULLOCK

The Montana Department of Commerce and the State Complete Count Committee are reminding Montanans that there is still time to respond to the 2020 Census. Recent actions by the federal government have created confusion about when the U.S. Census Bureau will end its decennial counting operations. “The most important thing to know is that Montanans can and should respond to the 2020 Census now while there’s still time,” said Lt. Gov. Mike Cooney, the chairman of the Montana Complete Count Committee. “The next ten years of Montana’s future depend on a complete count – our fair share of federal funding, accurate representation in local school and voting districts, and even the addition of a second U.S. House seat. So don’t wait: do it now!” On September 24, a U.S. District Court judge ordered the U.S. Census Bureau to continue its 2020 operations through October 31. As of today, that order stands despite attempts to appeal the ruling . On Monday, the U.S. Census Bureau announced it intends to defy that court order and wind down operations by October 5, but the federal district court today ruled that the Bureau must comply with the court’s order and continue operations through October 31. That means the deadline for the 2020 Census remains October 31 per the federal district court’s order – but Montanans should not wait to respond. The state of Montana will continue to support outreach and promotional efforts to make sure Montanans know why it’s so important to respond to the Census. Using a total of $660,500 in funding allocated by Governor Bullock from the Coronavirus Relief Fund, the Montana Department of Commerce and its statewide Census partners are hosting Census Be Counted drive-thru events , have launched multiple, targeted and statewide marketing campaigns, including the ongoing 2020 Census State Championship , and conducted direct outreach to low-response communities across the state. Disruptions from COVID-19, continued changes to the U.S. Census Bureau’s counting operations, the size and rural nature of Montana’s landscape and other factors have put Montana behind other states in the decennial count. Currently, Montana’s self-response rate is 60.1 percent, compared to the national average of 66.6 percent, according to the U.S. Census Bureau . Including door-to-door counting by federal Census workers, the total number of Montana households enumerated so far is 96.6 percent, compared to the national average of 98.9 percent. Montanans who have not yet filled out the 2020 Census should respond now and check in with friends, family and neighbors to encourage them to respond today at MY2020CENSUS.GOV or by calling 1.844.330.2020.

It has been a slow couple weekends, so we haven't done a rundown in a couple weeks. But we are back. As always if you have an event and want to get the word out call us at (406) 660 -7041 or email at southwesternmtnews@gmail.com Friday Oct 2nd Reckless Abandon 8 PM to 11 PM at Rocky's Roadhouse in Sheridan. Saturday Oct 3rd Expedition 12K 9 AM to 12 PM The Expedition 12K is now rescheduled for Saturday, October 3. If you are a current registered runner, please check your email for a message from our Events Team. https://mailchi.mp/fdb7bc504a13/enews-0ot7kpa8y5-2671120?e=[UNIQID] ------- Location ​The race will start and finish at the pavilion area located at the entrance to the Lewis Clark Caverns State Park in Cardwell, MT. Cost The race entry fee is $52. This includes a $3 park entrance fee, a race shirt, and a post-race lunch at the finish line. Top finishers will receive an award. Please note, there is a registration cap limited to 200 runners due to COVID-19. BIB PICK UP / WAVE START TIMES There will be 4 separate wave starts. Arrive to the Caverns at the following times, based upon your estimated race finish time (hour:minutes). *there is no early bib pickup Wave 1 - Runners with a finish time of 1:00 - 1:30 Bib pickup 8:30 AM Start time 9 AM Wave 2 - Runners with a finish time of 1:30 - 1:45 Bib pickup 9 AM Start time 9:30 AM Wave 3 - Runners with a finish time of 1:45 - 2:00 Bib pickup 9:30 AM Start time 10 AM Wave 4 - Runners with a finish time of 2:00 - 3:00 Bib pickup 10 AM Start time 10:30 AM AID STATIONS There will be no aid along the course. All runners are required to supply their own water and fuel. This is in an effort to reduce contact and exposure. COVID-19 POLICIES The following policies are mandatory for all participating runners. This event would not be able to take place without these policies in place, so please respect and follow the below instructions on race day: - Face coverings are mandatory at the start line and in any area where there is a large group (bib pickup area, etc.). Once you cross the start line and runners begin to spread out, you may remove your face covering for the remainder of the race. Please be mindful of runners around you if you need to pass them. - Temperature checks will take place at bib pickup. If your temperature read is 100.4 or higher, you will be asked to leave and not participate in the event. - All race officials, volunteers and runners are required to wear a mask where social distancing is unable to take place - No spectators are allowed at this event. Please do not bring your family, aunts, uncles and cousins. - Hand sanitizer will be available for use at bib pickup and in every port-a-potty. Please sanitize your hands upon entering and exiting the bathrooms. POST-RACE There will be no finish line gathering or food buffet. All runners will receive bottled water and pre-packaged snacks at bib pickup. Please bring your own lunch if you would like to enjoy it at the Caverns. COURSE DETAILS The majority of the race will be on single track trails that cover over 1,200 feet of vertical gain. The trails at Lewis and Clark Caverns are typically dry and clear of snow in early October. Be prepared for climbing, sharp turns, and beautiful views! DIRECTIONS TO THE CAVERNS From Bozeman, drive west on I-90 to the Hwy. 287 exit west of Three Forks. Drive south on Hwy. 2/287, and at the Y intersection, bend right onto Hwy. 2. Travel west along the Jefferson River until you reach Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park. Parking is on the north side of the highway. CHIP TIMING Chip timing for this event is provided by Competitive Timing Dillon History Hunt 10 AM to 4 PM Dillon History Hunt 2020 is brought to you by The Andrus Hotel. Calling all Dillon pirates! Learn some of Dillon's historic places as you hunt for clues to win your own treasure. Entry Fee is $10 per pirate. Enter at The Andrus Hotel lobby. Oktoberfest 5 PM to 12:30 AM Dillon Tap House, Games....Prizes....Food Keg Toss, Pint Relay, Stein Challenges Das Boot, Cornhole and more!!!!

The Montana Department of Commerce announced Thursday it has been awarded a federal grant of more than $525,000 to help Montana-made businesses export and promote products to international markets. Granted by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grant will be used to sponsor Montana businesses at international tradeshows to help develop partnerships between Montana businesses and international buyers, leading to business growth. The grant will also support training and technical assistance including foreign language translation and international product certification for small business exporters. “Montana’s innovative products are sought after,” Commerce Director Tara Rice said. “This STEP grant will support Montana businesses as they grow and thrive through global exposure, all the way from being a start-up business to becoming an international exporter.” During the 2019 legislative session, lawmakers passed and Governor Steve Bullock signed HB 52 which allocated $300,000 for Commerce’s Export Montana program. It’s this state appropriation which is used as the required STEP grant match. During the last fiscal year, nearly 400 Montana businesses were supported through grants, training and consultation made possible by this funding. Those business in turn generated more than $25 million in sales from market development activities.  In 2019, Montana exported more than $2.5 billion worth of commodities and bulk agricultural goods, strengthening the state’s economy and fueling business growth. Montana’s top five commodity trading partners last year were Canada, South Korea, Mexico, Japan and China. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, international trade has been disrupted. In response to this, the SBA has adapted its STEP grant to include marketing activities for business, so they can continue to promote their products through digital channels. This year, Montana’s STEP grant has updated its guidelines to support those marketing activities including: International website globalization and e-Commerce fees are now eligible grant activities with a maximum grant of $10,000. International digital marketing fees is another new eligible activity with a maximum grant of $6,000. The new activities, along with all previous activities, are now eligible for up to a 75 percent reimbursement, an increase from the previous 50 percent reimbursement. Learn more at EXPORTMONTANA.COM .

The University of Montana Western head men's basketball coach Mike Larsen has announced that Patrick Jensen , who served as an assistant on Larsen's staff for the past two seasons has been promoted to associate head coach.   Jensen has been an integral part of the rebuilding process of the Bulldogs men's basketball program. Over the last two years, he has had is hand in all aspects of the program including player development, recruiting, scouting, and game planning. "Coach Jensen has been a huge part of our programs development over the past couple of years," head coach Mike Larsen said. "His work ethic and the development of our players makes him very deserving of this title." A native of Missoula, Mont. Jensen earned all-state honors at Missoula Loyola High School. Collegiately he was a part of two regular and postseason Frontier Conference Championships at MSU-Northern. He made four trips to the NAIA National Tournament and was a three-time NAIA Daktronics Scholar-Athlete (Academic All-American). "I'm very honored and thankful to Bill Wilson and Coach Larsen for this promotion and opportunity," Jensen said. "I work with an amazing coach and even better person in Coach Larsen and I'm very excited to continue building this program with him." Prior to UMW, he spent three seasons with Idaho State University. Two years as a graduate assistant, and the 2017-18 season as Director of Player Development. As part of his duties at ISU, Jensen facilitated on court workouts with guards and forwards, opponent scouting reports, and analytics

Montana law allows residents and nonresidents to donate their hunting license and or special permit to a disabled military veteran or disabled active duty service member. This year, there is a higher interest among veterans to take advantage of this program, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is asking for more hunters to donate licenses. The disabled veteran or active armed forces member must be working with an organization that uses hunting as part of the rehabilitation process. While one cannot choose the organization to receive a donated license, the disabled veteran or armed forces member who receives the license must be a Purple Heart recipient and have a 70 percent or greater disability rating. Each license must be donated or surrendered before the beginning of the general hunting season. The deadline to donate your license is Oct. 23 at a FWP office or postmarked by Oct. 23. After donating the license, a hunter cannot repurchase the same license again during the license year. For more information on the program, visit FWP’s website at fwp.mt.gov. Click Disabled Veterans Hunt License Donation or call Licensing at 406-444-2950.

Montana businesses are now eligible to apply for workforce recovery grant dollars to help companies refill jobs that were lost due to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Montana Department of Commerce has launched a temporary Workforce Recovery grant program as part of the Big Sky Economic Development Trust Fund (BSTF). “Businesses across the state are managing through a variety of challenges and complications because of the pandemic,” Montana Department of Commerce Director Tara Rice said. “The Department of Commerce’s Workforce Recovery program is meant to assist those businesses that are ready to bring jobs back and to provide a little extra support to allow the business to sustain that rehired worker into the future.” The Big Sky Economic Development Trust Fund Workforce Recovery program will reimburse a business for the wages of full-time, permanent jobs that are created and retained for at least six months, up to a maximum of 25 jobs per business. Businesses apply directly to the program. A reimbursement of up to $7,500 per job is available to businesses in high-poverty counties . The business must match $3,750 per job. A reimbursement of up to $5,000 per job, with a $5,000 match, is available for businesses in all other counties. The Workforce Recovery program is in direct response to supporting businesses impacted by the economic effects of the pandemic. The ability to create the temporary program has been made possible by a governor’s directive which allows for flexibility in the Big Sky Economic Development Trust Fund program. Funding for the temporary program comes from reverted BSTF Job Creation awards, it is not a replacement for or pausing of the well-established business development program. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds have been committed or December 31, 2020; whichever comes first. Apply at MARKETMT.COM/BSTF/WorkforceRecovery .

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks released a draft version of the Madison River recreation administrative rules as well as the environmental assessment (EA) for public comment Friday. The documents can be found online at  fwp.mt.gov . The comment period will be open until Oct. 30. The draft administrative rule is derived from two rule-making petitions sent to the Fish and Wildlife Commission, one from the Fishing Outfitters Association of Montana (FOAM) and another from a collaborative of the George Grant Chapter of Trout Unlimited, the Skyline Sportsmen Association and the Anaconda Sportsmen Association. The petitions were heard by the commission at their August meeting and were approved to move into the rule-making and EA process. Under state statute, the rule-making process starts with draft rule language and is followed by public hearings and a public comment period. The public hearing for the draft rule will be Oct. 20 at 6 p.m. via the Zoom meeting platform, due to social distancing restrictions given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, written or emailed comments will be accepted for the duration of the comment period. The EA analyzes three alternatives – each of the petitions, along with a no-action alternative that would maintain the status-quo. The analysis looks at each alternative for effects on recreation, natural and physical resources, heritage, and economics of the Madison River. Additionally, the EA predicts the potential of the alternatives to effectively meet  the desired recreation goals for the Madison River: 1) ensure long-term health and sustainability of the fisheries; 2) diversify angling opportunity while reducing conflicts; and 3) sustain the ecological and economic benefits of the river to Montanans and our guests. “With these draft documents, we now have something very tangible for the public to comment on,” said FWP Director Martha Williams. “Managing recreation on the Madison River has a long and contentious history. We’re anxious to hear from the public about the draft rules and EA.” The public will be able to watch the public meeting streamed on the FWP YouTube channel and will have a dedicated phone line to call in and provide public comment. Details on how to participate will be on the FWP website. The commission will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who wish to participate in this rule-making process or need an alternative accessible format of this notice.  If you require an accommodation, contact the department no later than Oct. 9 to advise FWP of the nature of the accommodation that you need. For questions about the hearing, please contact Jessica Snyder at FWP, P.O. Box 200701, Helena, Montana, 59620-0701; telephone 406-444-9785; or e-mail jesssnyder@mt.gov .

With the COVID-19 a ffecting this year’s Labor Day festivities the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department opted out of having their annual breakfast/ fundraiser. The Dillon Elks Lodge stepped in and offered Labor Day breakfast to those headed to the parade Monday morning. Serving around 124 hungry guests. With a mission to give back to the community they felt it was right to donate a portion of the proceeds back to the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department. They also want this gesture to open the door to future fund-raising events. On Wednesday Sept 23rd Elks Leader Gerald Penn made arrangements to meet with newly elected fire Chief BJ Klose to give him a check. Unfortunately, duty called, and the fire department had to respond with a call. A few hours later they were able to meet back up and Gerald was able to present them with a check for $250.

Governor Steve Bullock today announced $4.2 million in additional funds have been awarded through the Montana Meat Processing Infrastructure Grant (MMPIG) program to aid small and medium-sized meat processors in responding to the COVID-19 crisis through the adaptation and advancement of meat processing infrastructure and capacity in Montana. “The meat processing infrastructure grant program received an incredible amount of interest, which goes to show just how crucial these investments are for Montana,” Governor Bullock said. “Our hardworking producers need to have viable markets for selling their livestock. These grants allow meat processors to expand their capacity to meet increased demand for local meat and protect consumers from future supply chain disruptions.” The grant program previously awarded $7.5 million to 62 different processors across the state in early August, making the total awards for meat processing nearly $12 million. Meat supply chains across the nation were stressed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The MMPIG program builds community resilience and bolsters food security statewide. Businesses are using the grants to purchase equipment to immediately increase their storage and processing capacity. Many are modifying their facilities to include slaughter floors and other business adaptations that give producers the option to sell their meat locally rather than shipping them out of state. Funding for the MMPIG program is derived from the state’s allocation of federal relief dollars made available through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, with a maximum award of $150,000. The 40 businesses awarded had already submitted applications to the MMPIG program. As with all coronavirus relief programs, funds must be utilized before December 31, 2020. Due to this confined timeframe, the application process for meat processing will not be reopened. The Montana Department of Agriculture and Department of Livestock worked together to ensure projects adhered to meat processing rules and regulations. A list of additional recipients is included with this release and a full list of MMPIG program recipients is available on the Montana Department of Agriculture’s website . Additional Montana Meat Processing Infrastructure Grant Recipients Arneson Processing – Belgrade, MT $76,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. B Bar Ranch – Big Timber, MT $73,500 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. Barney Creek Livestock – Livingston, MT $29,000 to assist with purchase of a building and equipment to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Bonanza Meat Company – Glendive, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases for a new processing facility. Burger Boys – Malta, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Clean Cut Packing – Laurel, MT $150,000 to assist with purchases of a trailer and equipment for a mobile meat processing unit. Cold Spring Grass Farm – Plains, MT $150,000 to assist with the purchase of a Plant in Box shipping container poultry processing facility. Custer Processing – Miles City, MT $141,500 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Custom Cuts – Lewistown, MT $14,300 to assist with equipment purchases to increase storage and processing capacity. Cut Above Meat Processing – Plains, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications for a new processing facility. Dahl Ranch – Boulder, MT $25,435 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Daniels Gourmet Meat and Sausages – Bozeman, MT $115,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Devils Fence Beef – Boulder, MT $25,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Double K Ranch – Darby, MT $150,000 to assist with slaughter floor installation and equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. Eagle Creek Colony – Chester, MT $94,250 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. H and D Meat Processing – Ronan, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. Hamilton Packing Company – Hamilton, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Happel’s Clean Cut Meats – Bozeman, MT $43,051 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Heggelund Ranch Meats – Anaconda, MT $50,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. Hi line Meats – Glasgow, MT  $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases to for a new processing facility. Integrity Oil and Gas – Eureka, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications for a new processing facility. Kayle Distributing – Bozeman, MT $148,431 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. KC Meats – Lewistown, MT $90,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. KW Beef – Sunburst, MT $52,536 to assist with equipment purchases and to increase cold storage, transportation and processing capacity. M&S Meats – Kalispell, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. Mariahs Meats – Harlowton, MT $35,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Montana Farmers Union – Great Falls, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases for a new mobile slaughter unit. Nicole Wines Livestock – Lewistown, MT $150,000 to purchase mobile meat processing trailer. O’Connor Crops and Cattle – Ekalaka, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases for a new processing facility. Perfect Cuts – Columbia Falls, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Riley’s Meat Company – Butte, MT $91,980 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Ruby Valley Meats – Sheridan, MT $50,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Smith Wild Game Cutting – Malta, MT $7,918 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Stahl’s Processing – Grass Range, MT $74,260 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. Stampede Packing Company – Kalispell, MT $142,700 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase processing capacity. Stillwater Packing Company – Columbus, MT $31,950 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Terminal Meats – Butte, MT $74,920 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. The People’s Partner For Community Development – Lame Deer, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. Tizer Meats – Helena, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. White’s Wholesale Meats – Ronan, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity.

25,000 masks will be distributed to Montana’s Convention and Visitors Bureaus and Tourism Regions The Montana Department of Commerce today announced that six Made in Montana program members will produce 25,000 masks as part of the state’s “ Montana Aware ” initiative to promote safe and responsible fall travel. The following six companies will produce the masks at their Montana-based facilities: Montana Robe Company in Belgrade, Glacier Clothing Company in Columbia Falls, Rebekah Jarvey in Havre, 406 Creative Vibe in Missoula, REcreate Designs in Polson, and Red Ants Pants in White Sulphur Springs. “Made in Montana companies across the state have stepped up during the pandemic to provide goods and services to keep people healthy and safe,” Commerce Director Tara Rice said. “This partnership is an opportunity to support local small businesses, promote the important Montana Aware message to visitors, and continue to encourage responsible public health practices.” The Department of Commerce will use a portion of its tourism safety allocation of Coronavirus Relief Fund dollars to make the masks available to Montana’s 19 Convention and Visitors Bureaus and six tourism regions. The CVBs and regions can then distribute free masks to travelers during the fall season. Montana Robe Company Founder and CEO Jenny Thuen says her business started making and donating masks in March. “We saw a local need and wanted to rise to the challenge to help,” Thuen says. “Now, with the award of this Made in Montana mask program, this opportunity to help has never felt more empowering. We're expanding our seamstress network, boosting our production and making more masks than ever. We're so thankful and excited for the opportunity to help on a greater scale!” There are more than 2,300 members of the Made in Montana program, which promotes Montana-made products and small businesses. Visitors and Montanans alike seek out authentic Made in Montana products. According to the Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research, visitors to Montana spent an estimated $81 million on Made in Montana products in 2019.

Montana’s young hunters and their hunting mentors will have a special treat the weekend of September 26 and 27, when they can take advantage of a statewide youth-only waterfowl and pheasant hunt. Licensed hunters or apprentice hunters, 15 and under, will be able to hunt ducks, mergansers, geese, coots and pheasants statewide on these two days. The two-day youth hunt is open to: legally licensed 12- to 15-year-olds who have completed Hunter Education and who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult at least 18 years of age. properly certified and legally licensed apprentice hunters 10-15 years of age who are accompanied by a non-hunting adult "mentor" at least 21 years of age. Pheasant hunters in north central Montana can expect to work a bit harder for birds this year as numbers appear to be down a bit. However, pheasant numbers are solid on the eastern side of the state. Waterfowl hunters can expect to encounter drier conditions in most places around the state, which could mean a shift in tactics and a reduction in wetland areas for hunting. However, this is balanced with what is expected to be good numbers of waterfowl beginning their flight south. With the youth opportunities, all  regulations  apply. The  Canyon Ferry Wildlife  Management Area is an exception — only to the youth waterfowl season shooting hours being one-half hour before sunrise to  noon .

The Montana State Library, in partnership with the Montana Department of Commerce and State Complete Count Committee, is launching a week of activities at public libraries across the state to encourage Montana residents to be counted in the 2020 Census before the deadline of September 30. “It’s Not Too Late to Be Counted…at the Library” week will run from Monday, September 21 through Saturday, September 26. “Montana’s public libraries have been there since the beginning, working to get Montanans counted in the 2020 Census,” said Lt. Gov. Mike Cooney, chair of the State Complete Count Committee . “In these final days of the 2020 Census count, our public libraries are stepping up in an even bigger way, ensuring Montanans have a place to fill out their Census form online if they don’t have Internet connectivity at home, and providing fun activities and even some incentives for participating in this once-in-a-decade effort.” Libraries across the state will be hosting activities like a Census-themed story time for kids featuring counting books, and an online census trivia game, and will be providing incentives to Montanans who self-report during “It’s Not Too Late to Be Counted…at the Library” week. Montanans who visit their local library can use their own digital devices to access the library’s free WiFi or make an appointment with their local librarian to use a library computer station to complete the nine-question Census form online. Librarians will provide information on how to get started on submitting a Census form.    Public libraries in Montana have been an important part of the state’s Census informational and outreach efforts, with 119 libraries designated as “Be Counted” locations and many making computers, tablets or phone available to the public for Census responses. Find out more about the activities planned for “It’s Not Too Late to Be Counted…at the Library” week at libraries across the state here . The Montana State Library helps all organizations, communities, and Montanans thrive through excellent library resources and services. For more information about the Montana State Library, visit MSL.MT.GOV .  Montana’s self-response rate to the 2020 Census is below the national average, with 59.4 percent of Montanans having self-responded to the 2020 Census, compared to the national average of 66 percent, according to the U.S. Census Bureau . Even with door-to-door counting by U.S. Census workers, Montana’s overall response rate is below the national average, and tribal nations and rural counties in Montana are at risk of an undercount. To encourage counties and tribes in Montana to compete for the highest increase in self-response rates to the 2020 Census, the Montana Department of Commerce earlier this week launched the Montana 2020 Census State Championship , which will run through the current Census deadline of September 30. Montanans should respond to the 2020 Census today at MY2020CENSUS.GOV , by calling 1-844-330-2020, or by mailing in their paper Census form if they received one.