Governor Bullock to Allow Counties the Choice to Conduct Mail Ballot Election and Expand Early Voting for November General Election Governor Steve Bullock today issued a directive to ensure all eligible Montanans can safely vote in the 2020 November general election by allowing counties to expand voting by mail and early voting. Whether or not they provide mail ballots, all counties will be required to offer in person voting opportunities and take precautions to ensure Montanans have the option to register or vote safely. “I am in agreement with our bipartisan election administrators – who are the ones on the ground with the first-hand knowledge of how to successfully conduct an election – that we must protect Montanans’ right to vote, while protecting the public’s health,” Governor Bullock said. “Locally elected officials best understand the voting needs of their communities, and taking this action now ensures they will have the time to make the right decisions for their localities. With this approach we can protect that fundamental right to vote, while easing crowding and pressure on voting on Election Day.” The directive permits counties, at their discretion, to expand access to voting by mail and early voting. Counties that opt to vote by mail will still require counties to allow in person voting. All counties must ensure appropriate social distancing to provide safe voting and voter registration for all Montanans. For the primary election, county election administrators adeptly managed the change in procedures and held a safe election marked by an increase in voter turnout compared to previous primary elections. In July, the bipartisan Montana Association of Clerk and Recorders and Election Administrators as well as the Montana Association of Counties requested that Governor Bullock again give counties the option to conduct a mail ballot election in November. Their request stressed the ethical concerns with following standard election procedures, which would produce serious risks for voters and poll workers alike—effectively forcing Montanans to choose between their safety and the right to vote. The election administrators also stressed the chaos that could follow if polling locations are closed at the last minute or if counties are forced to consolidate polling locations in response to outbreaks. The option to provide mail ballots while expanding early voting will protect Montanans’ right to vote, while protecting the public’s health. The CDC has recognized that in person voting on election day increases the risk of transmitting COVID-19, and has urged states to use voting methods that reduce crowd size. Many Montana election workers are over the age of 60 and are often in close proximity to each other, large crowds, and interact with paper, pens, and other items that could be infected and exchanged frequently. Governor Bullock’s Directive contains three central components: Counties may choose to send mail ballots and expand early voting for the November 3, 2020 general election. Counties are encouraged to publicize available options and to work with nonprofit organizations to ensure that all Montanans will have access to a ballot, whether in person, early, or by mail. All counties must establish, implement, and enforce social distancing policies at polling locations, designated drop-off locations, or other public-facing portions of facilities involved in voting. The Directive largely mirrors the June 2020 primary Directive, but also reflects feedback from the bipartisan group of county election administrators, who studied the June 2020 primary. The Directive encourages election administrators to publicize mail and early voting options, to make options available to voters early, and to work with local nonprofit organizations to facilitate voting on reservations in particular. Based on county election administrators’ feedback, the directive also requests that the Secretary of State’s Office include designated place of deposit locations on voters’ “My Voter Page” profiles in addition to available polling places and recommends that Automark or Expressvote technology be made available at polling locations from Oct. 2 through election day. Additionally, the Directive provides expanded timelines for voter registration, ballot distribution, and early voting opportunities. The Directive extends the close of regular voter registration until 10 days before the election to minimize the need for in-person registration or lines. County election administrators will be able to make ballots available from Oct. 2 until the end of the election. Mail-in ballots will be sent on Oct. 9 and no postage will be required to return ballots by mail. Finally, the Directive requires that counties, regardless of their voting procedures, implement social distancing guidelines to make voter registration and voting safer for all Montanans and reduce spreading COVID-19 within communities. As CDC guidelines provide, counties must ensure a minimum of six feet of distancing between individuals at polling locations, designated drop-off locations, or public-facing portions of facilities involved in voting. The full Directive is linked here .

First weekend in August and a lot of fewer things to do, thanks to COVID. Still a few events hanging on for those looking for something to do. Also don’t forget if you go to the great outdoors be careful with your campfires. Friday August 7th Tai Chi (free classes) 9:30 AM – 10:20 AM Free Tai Chi classes continue. Please practice social distancing. Annual Community Lab Screening Event In August 7:15 AM – 12 PM Choose Prevention—Over Cure It’s simple: Preventative lab screenings can save your life. Barrett Hospital & HealthCare wants to make it as easy as possible for you to get the screenings you need. Join us for our annual Community Lab Screening event held August 3rd through August 14th. WHEN: Monday - Friday, 7:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. WHERE: Hospital Location Only •No appointment is necessary, walk-in anytime Monday-Friday from 7:15 a.m.-12:00 noon. •Easy access: Lab screenings conveniently located at Barrett Hospital. •A provider’s order is not needed to obtain lab screenings. •Payment by cash, check or credit card is required at the time of service. • Results become part of your electronic medical record, available through MyChart or they will be mailed directly to you. Lab Screening Tests and Their Cost Complete Metabolic Panel $16.00 Lipid Panel $15.00 Vitamin D $25.00 Insulin $16.00 A1C $15.00 TSH $23.00 CBC $15.00 Hepatitis C Screening (HCV Ab) $25.00 CRP $22.00 C-Peptide $19.00 Vitamin B12 $21.00 Blood Type & Rh (ABO & Rh) $25.00 Magnesium $12.00 PSA $23.00 Ferritin $20.00 Iron $13.00 Uric Acid, Blood $10.00 HIV 1/2 Ag/Ab 4th Gen $20.00 Free Yoga in the Garden 12 PM – 1 PM Free gentle yoga in the garden, taught by yoga instructor, Joan Hendrickson. Enjoy the beautiful creekside setting, and living things growing all around. Children welcomed. Dyce Creek Mahogany Project Aug 7 at 5 PM – Aug 9 at 12 PM Beaverhead Mule Deer Chapter Mahogany Project The Beaverhead MDF Chapter would like to invite you to a field day Friday August 7 - Sunday August 9. Schedule: Friday, August 7 - Evening - Campout Saturday, August 8 - 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM with Lunch Break at 12:00 PM. Potluck to follow work party on Saturday Evening - Potluck Style:Last name A-N, Bring Dessert, Last Name M-Z bring a salad. Sunday, August 9 - 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Finish up odds and ends and clean up. The Location- Road will be flagged The UTM's for the worksite are Zone 12 E:339376, N:5017908 and the camp site is on West Fork Dyce Creek at E:337244, N:5016769. You can access the worksite off HWY 278 via Taylor Creek road to Red Butte Rd #1876- approx 4.5 miles. For camping take HWY 278 to Taylor Creek Road at the top of Badger Pass to BLM Rd #1878 to the West Fork of Dyce Creek and turn left on Rd #1879 to the UTM's provided. approx 4.5 miles from Taylor Cr Rd. A combination of factors has played against mule deer populations, but a crucial piece of the mule deer’s winter food supply, mahogany, has been a critical player. We will be cutting Ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, and juniper that grow much faster than mahogany. And as they grow, their canopies can also block out the sun and choke out the mahogany. The species is shade-intolerant, meaning it will die if it doesn’t get copious amounts of sunlight. When it’s infringed upon by an overstory of conifers that block out the sun, it withers away. Please respond if you are able to attend. Items Needed- Gloves, loppers, pruning shears, Contacts: Ryan Nagle 509-939-0185 Cory Creighton 406-660-0518 Kelly Bocktin 406-683-8000 Saturday August 8th Dillon Farmers' Market 9 AM – 1 PM Hand made and home grown local specialties offered by up to 20 vendors. High Country Harmony 7 PM – 9 PM Bannack State Park proudly Presents High Country Harmony! Saturday August 8th @ 7:00pm Located at the pavillion Debi Zohner and Angie Hurley met in Bannack nearly 30 years ago and have been making music together ever since. The duo, High Country Harmony, has recorded 2 CDS and enjoy singing old time hymns and cowboy songs. They will be singing the sweetest music this side of heaven, your favorite cowboy, folk, and gospel songs. Plenty of space for social distancing! Sunday August 9th Madison County Youth Rodeo 10 AM – 5 PM This SW Youth Rodeo is one of the best in the west! We have lots of age groups, lots of events and lots of prizes including snow cone tickets and cash payouts for the kiddos! As always if you have an event coming up please email us at southwesternmtnews@gmail.com we will put it on our event calendar and if it’s on the weekend we will include it in the Weekend Rundown for free.

Several rivers in southwest Montana will close to fishing during the afternoon each day due to a seasonal rise in water temperatures. “Hoot-owl” restrictions prohibit fishing during the hottest times of the day. A hoot-owl restriction prohibiting fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight each day will go into effect on Aug. 6 for the following water bodies: The lower Gallatin River from the Highway 84 bridge near Four Corners to the Missouri River. The lower Ruby River from Duncan District Road to the Beaverhead River. The Big Hole River from the North Fork of the Big Hole River to Dickie Bridge west of Wise River, and from Maidenrock Fishing Access Site to the Beaverhead River, in accordance with the Big Hole Watershed Committee Drought Plan. The lower Beaverhead River from Anderson Lane to the Jefferson River. The entire Jefferson River, in accordance with the Jefferson River Drought Plan. Each of these areas have met their respective established requirements for hoot-owl restrictions, which include water temperatures exceeding 73 degrees for at least three consecutive days. Restrictions of this nature are designed to protect fish such as Arctic grayling and trout, which all become more susceptible to disease and mortality when conditions such as high temperatures combine with additional stressors. The restrictions for each river will be lifted when peak water temperatures stay below 70 degrees for three consecutive days, but no later than Sept. 15. A permanent yearly hoot-owl restriction also went into effect this year for the lower Madison River from the Warm Springs Boat Launch to the Jefferson River. That restriction will be in effect every year from July 15 through Aug. 15.

At its meeting on Aug. 13, the Fish and Wildlife Commission will hear two petitions regarding River Recreation on the Madison River. The Fishing Outfitters Association of Montana (FOAM) and the George Grant Chapter of Trout Unlimited (GGTU) along with the Anaconda Sportsmen Association (ASA) will present their petitions directly to the commission. Both petitions are requesting rulemaking to address recreation on the Madison River. Following the presentation of the petitions, FWP staff will answer questions but will not represent any support or opposition to the petitions. Pursuant to 2-4-315, Montana Code Annotated, the commission must either deny the petition or initiate rulemaking on the petition. If the commission chooses to propose rule language other than what is contained in the petition, the commission must deny the petition and then propose rule language. If the commission chooses portions of the petitions to adopt or deny, it must be clearly indicated on the record. FWP recommends the commission propose rule language regarding management of recreational use on the Madison River for public comment, whether based on these petitions or not.  Shortly after the canceled June Commission meeting on this topic two petitions were received and the decision was made to dedicate the August 13 meeting to just the required petition process, rather than FWP staff presenting an EA.  If the Commission moves forward with any proposed rulemaking, an appropriately focused EA would accompany that process.  This would include ample opportunity for the diverse public interests and perspectives to review and weigh in, ultimately helping to assemble an effective and enduring solution.    Both petitions are available on the commission page of the FWP website, fwp.mt.gov . The meeting will be held using the video conferencing platform Zoom. Details on how to access the meeting will be posted on fwp.mt.gov closer to the meeting date. The meeting will also be audio streamed online at fwp.mt.gov . The meeting begins at 8:30 a.m. The full agenda is available on the FWP website.

Hunters can get their 2020 Block Management Area (BMA) Hunting Access Guide, individual BMA map and rules information beginning Aug. 10. Hunters are strongly encouraged to request their 2020 BMA Hunting Access Guide and individual BMA maps and rules via mail, email, phone or by completing the online Access Guide request form and downloading or printing BMA maps at fwp.mt.gov/BMA . For those who’ve already have ordered one, guides will be shipped beginning Aug. 10. “Given our current situation with the COVID pandemic, we are trying to limit BMA walk-in traffic to our offices, and hunters are strongly encouraged to utilize our web resources,” said Jason Kool, FWP Hunting Access Bureau Chief.

MONTANA – Governor Steve Bullock and the Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA) today announced that over $7.5 million in grant funding has been awarded through the Montana Meat Processing Infrastructure Grant (MMPIG) programs. The grants are designed 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 impacts of COVID-19 have highlighted how fragile the nation’s supply chain can be, especially when it comes to meat processing,” said Governor Steve Bullock. “It’s crucial that our producers have viable options for getting their meat to market. Investing in meat processing infrastructure will help our Montana producers, strengthen local food systems, and bolster food security for Montanans in communities across the state from Plains to Circle.” The grant program received incredible interest which reflects the necessity for increased in-state meat processing capacity. Strengthening infrastructure and capacity will increase market options for Montana’s cattle, hog and poultry producers and protect consumers from supply chain disruption. Businesses received funding for equipment and infrastructure, such as additional cooler or freezer space, slaughter floor enhancements, and other business adaptation and diversification activities that will increase processing and/or storage capacity related to local meat processing. Funding for the MMPIG was 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. Over 60 businesses received funding. The Montana Department of Agriculture and Department of Livestock worked in conjunction to ensure projects adhered to meat processing rules and regulations. A list of recipients is included with this release. The Montana Department of Agriculture’s mission is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. For more information on the Montana Department of Agriculture, visit agr.mt.gov . Montana Meat Processing Infrastructure Grant Recipients 406 Processing – Great Falls, MT $120,428 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. 4th Avenue Meat Market – Billings, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. 5D Processing – Choteau, MT $54,500 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Amsterdam Meat Shop – Belgrade, MT  $138,140 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Auggie’s Processing Plant – Broadus, MT $145,000 to assist with equipment purchases and construction of a new processing facility. Bainville Meats – Bainville, MT $144,583 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. BCH Discount Meats – Great Falls, MT $87,160 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase processing capacity. Bear Paw Meats – Chinook, MT $103,585 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase processing capacity. Beaverhead Meats – Dillon, MT $90,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage capacity and upgrade waste management infrastructure and sanitization processes. Big Sandy Meat Shop – Malta, MT  $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to achieve federal inspection certification. Biiluuke Strong – Hardin, MT $115,129 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Black Dog Farm – Livingston, MT $88,046 to assist with construction of a poultry processing facility. Butcher Block Specialties – Miles City, MT $100,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. C&C Meat Processing – Browning, MT  $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases, slaughter floor installation and facility modifications for increased cold storage and processing capacity. Castle Mountain Grocery – White Sulphur Springs, MT $149,872 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Christiaens Meats – Valier, MT $33,974 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. Clark Fork Custom Meats – Plains, MT $140,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Cordova Farms – Choteau, MT $140,273 to assist with the purchase of a Plant in Box shipping container poultry processing facility. Cowboy Meat Company – Forsyth, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Craig’s Meat Processing – Sidney, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Dabucha’s Outdoors – Shelby, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases, slaughter floor expansion and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Diamond D Bar Processing – Geraldine, MT $97,896 to assist with the equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Eastern Montana Meats – Sidney, MT  $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and construction of a new facility. Farm-to-Market Pork – Kalispell, MT $140,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and expand processing capacity to include beef as well as pork. Feddes Family Meats – Manhattan, MT $147,490 to assist with and equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Hilger Meats – Lewistown, MT $139,711 to assist with equipment purchases, slaughter floor installation and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Judith Mountain Meats – Lewistown, MT $61,878 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. L and S Meat Processing – Lima, MT $99,065 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. K & S Meat – Helena, MT $145,830 to assist with the construction of a new facility for increased cold storage capacity and the purchase of a mobile slaughter truck for increased processing capacity. Lazy BK Ranch – Hamilton, MT  $41,900 to assist with equipment purchases and the completion of processing facility. Living River Farms – Stevensville, MT $140,000 to assist with equipment purchases and the construction of a poultry processing facility. Lolo Locker – Missoula, MT  $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Lower Valley Processing – Kalispell, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. M3 Meats – Sidney, Mt $125,259 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Matt’s Butcher Shop & Deli – Livingston, MT  $140,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Miles Community College – Miles City, Mt $117,397 to assist with training and educating Montana residents about meat processing. Millers Custom Processing – Red Lodge, MT $104,671 to assist with equipment purchases and facility upgrades to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Milligan Canyon Meats – Three Forks, MT $45,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Mission Mountain Food Enterprise Center – Ronan, MT $72,500 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. Montana Marbled Meats – Polson, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. North American Foods of Montana – Hamilton, MT $115,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage capacity. North West Montana Veterans Stand Down – Kalispell, MT $63,443 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase capacity for repackaging and distributing meat donations to veterans and their families. Pekovitch Meats – Malta, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases, slaughter floor installation and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Pioneer Meats – Big Timber, MT  $140,000 to assist with equipment purchases and renovation of an existing processing facility to increase domestic animal processing and cold storage capacity. Powder River Meat Company – Terry, MT $116,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to reopen facility. Project Meats – Billings, MT $50,000 to assist with facility upgrades and construction of an additional facility. Ranchland Packing – Butte, MT $140,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Rawhide Meats – White Sulphur Springs, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Round Butte Custom Cuts – Ronan, Mt $136,477 to assist with equipment purchases and mobile slaughter unit to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Ryan Grocery & Processing – Jordan, MT  $116,939 to equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. S Ranch Meats – Hardin, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases for a new processing facility. School House Meats (Missoula Schools) – Missoula, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. Superior Meats – Superior, MT  $140,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase processing capacity. T and A Ranch – Cascade, MT $150,000 to assist with construction of a new processing facility. T&G Processing – Circle, MT $148,105 to assist with equipment purchases, slaughter floor installation and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. The Butcher Block – Great Falls, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases, slaughter floor installation and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Treasure Trail Meat Processing – Glasgow, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Triple T Specialty Meats – Glendive, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Uncle Sweetie’s Processing – Jordan, MT $94,472 to assist with equipment purchases and facility modifications to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Vandevanter Meats – Columbia Falls, MT $150,000 to assist with equipment purchases to increase cold storage and processing capacity. Western Meat & Sausage Block – Butte, MT  $71,201 to assist with equipment purchases to increase processing capacity. Western Wildlife Art Taxidermy and Processing – Forsyth, MT  $133,500 to assist with equipment purchases to covert taxidermy storage facility to a processing facility.

The drawing for antelope and antelope B permits will be held Thursday, Aug. 6. To check your drawing results, login to myfwp.mt.gov.   Because so many hunters selected the 900-20 antelope archery only license as their first choice in the drawing, there will not be any 900-20 antelope archery only surplus licenses available. Surplus License List timeline reminder The Surplus License List sign-up timeframes referenced below are based on when the original drawing date for each species is scheduled to occur and are subject to change from year to year. Deer & Elk Permits, Deer B & Elk B License/Permits: July 21 through Aug. 7 Swan, Crane, Special Mountain Lion: Aug. 12 through Aug. 24 Nonresident Hound Handler License: Sept. 16 to Sept. 28 Nonresidents who hold a NR Native license, Youth Combo license, or NR College Student Combination license may purchase Deer B and Elk B licenses at half price. For more information, contact the FWP licensing office at 406-444-2950 or fwplic@mt.gov .

Hunters and their gun dogs have less than a month before the upland game bird season begins, so it will be a good time to dig into this season's hunting access guide. To get started, hunters can refer to the Projects Access Guide, published annually by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program (UGBEP). The guide contains all active projects administered through the UGBEP, including Open Fields, habitat management leases, food and cover plots, CRP enhancements, shelterbelts, and grazing systems. These project types are designed to enhance upland game bird habitats on lands open to free upland game bird hunting when permission to hunt is secured.  The guide includes tables that provide hunters with project-specific information such as project location, acres, and the method to contact landowners for permission.  Hunters should note that several private land projects are walk-in game bird hunting with no further permission required.  Many UGBEP projects are located on lands enrolled in Block Management, and hunters will need to refer to the Block Management guide for specific access and permission information.   FWP reminds hunters to obtain landowner permission before hunting private lands in Montana.  Beginning Aug. 10, hunters can find the new guide and the maps online at fwp.mt.gov . Click UGBEP Projects Access Guide .  FWP anticipates newly enrolled Open Fields projects available for game bird hunting this fall that won’t be included in the published access guide due to timing.  FWP will create an addendum available for download on the Access Guide web page as soon as the enrollment process is complete and will include maps and access information.  Printed access guides will be available at FWP headquarters and regional offices late August. Hunters can also request a copy of the access guide via FWP's website.  FWP will begin mailing guides to hunters the week of Aug. 17. FWP extends thanks to all partners who collaborate on habitat conservation and access opportunities that benefit wildlife and hunters. Through critical partnerships formed with private landowners, government agencies and conservation organizations, UGBEP enhanced nearly 370,000 acres of habitat while providing nearly 700,000 acres of access to upland game bird hunters. For more information, contact Debbie Hohler, UGBEP Coordinator, at: 406-444-5674, or by email: dhohler@mt.gov .

COVID-19 Cases continue to be confirmed in Beaverhead County Beaverhead County has a total case count of 50. At this time there are 14 active cases. We have identified community spread within Beaverhead County. Community spread occurs when cases do not have an identifiable origin. We’ve seen a major community surge in recent weeks. Please continue social distancing, frequent hand washing/sanitizing, and staying home when you feel sick. As public health becomes busier with contact investigation, it will take longer to identify and investigate contacts. We ask for the public’s patience while we work on cases and contacts. A close contact is considered someone who is within 6 feet for at least 15 minutes with a positive case. There may be times that the case does not remember all close contacts so if you feel you were a close contact and have not been called by public health after a couple of days, please call the health department at 683-4771. Please do not seek immediate testing at the hospital. The proper procedure for testing is a request to your health care provider or public health for a test. We do ask that if you have no symptoms or mild symptoms, that you wait until after the weekend to request a test. No courier is available on the weekend to take tests to the state lab. However, if you are experiencing severe illness, please seek care at the hospital immediately. It is important that you remain quarantined from the community for 14 days from last exposure to the positive case. If you are in contact with a positive case and receive a negative test result during quarantine, you MUST finish your 14 day quarantine. Beaverhead County Public Health is asking everyone to please do their part in keeping themselves and others in our community safe. Follow the Governor’s mask mandate unless you are exempt under the directive. The mandate can be found at https://covid19.mt.gov/joint-information-center .

Burning in wooded areas north of Bannack State Park, the Bon Accord fire is at 160 acres. The fire is at 30% containment with two Hot Shot crews, and air support fighting the fire. Fire fighters thought they had a handle on it but a down burst and thunderstorm came through with a shifting of winds pushing the fire in a different direction. No structures are threatened by the fire at this time.

A wildfire is burning Northeast of Bannack. The fire started around 4 PM and has burned an estimated 50 to 80 acres. Four Type 6 engines, 2 Type 2 helicopters, and 2 Type one air tankers are assigned to the fire, along with a ground crew of 35 firefighters. Crews have been facing directional changing wind and small thunderstorms with some lightning. Further personnel is expected to arrive Sunday morning. There has been no reports of injury or property damage.

The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission will meet Aug. 13 using the video conferencing platform Zoom. Details on how to access the meeting will be posted on fwp.mt.gov closer to the meeting date. The meeting will also be audio streamed online at fwp.mt.gov. The meeting begins at 8:30 a.m. The commission will hear the following petitions: Shields River Petition by Jeff Welch Madison River Petition by Fishing Outfitters Association of Montana Madison River Petition by GGC of Trout Unlimited, Skyline Sportsmen Association and the Anaconda Sportsmen Association The commission will make final decisions on the following topics: Nixon Bridge Gallatin River Temporary Closure MDT Clark Fork River Temporary Closure Future Fisheries Improvement Program Summer Funding Panel Recommendations Approval of Marten Translocation to Little Belt Mountains 2020/2021 Furbearer Seasons And 2020 Quotas Approval of Bighorn Sheep Translocation to Little Belt Mountains Reaffirming Approval of Bighorn Sheep Translocation to Tendoy Mountains Lone Tree Conservation Easement Ash Coulee Conservation Easement W-Bar Conservation Easement The commission will hear the following presentations and proposals: 2021 Fishing Regulations Annual Review and New Annual Work Plan for Elk Management Guidelines in Areas with Brucellosis Shoulder Season Harvest Evaluation The commission will also look at endorsing the following: Yellowstone Islands Fishing Access Site Cornell Park FAS Bad Rock Canyon Wildlife Management Area Acquisition Kootenai Forestlands Phase II Conservation Easement Chip Creek Conservation Easement Big Snowy Mountains WMA Acquisition South Addition to Cree Crossing WMA The commission also will selection organizations to auction 2021 moose, sheep, goat, mule deer and elk licenses and will recognize Jim Stone for his service to fisheries conservation efforts. FWP ensures its meetings are fully accessible to those with special needs. To request arrangements, call FWP at 406-444-3186. For the full agenda and background on the scheduled topics, go to the FWP website at fwp.mt.gov; under “Quick Links” click “ Commission .” FWP's website offers live streamed audio of each Fish & Wildlife Commission meeting.

Another week in the books and another month down. Plenty to do this weekend, in town or in the great outdoors. Have a fun and safe weekend Southwestern Montana. Friday July, 31st Tai Chi (free classes) 9:30 AM – 10:20 AM, Free Tai Chi classes continue. Please practice social distancing. Great Harvest is Raising Dough 7 AM to 2 PM Swing by the Great Harvest in Dillon, MT, July 29 - 31 from 7am to 2pm! Sales will benefit the Barrett Hospital Foundation. We are featuring our Bacon Cheddar Beer Bread (Made with beer from the Beaverhead Brewing Co.), Hamburger Buns, Cranberry Orange Bread, Rhubarb Streusel, Salted Caramel Cookies, Biscuits, Muffins, Dillon Cookies, and all your favorites! We will be offering our full sandwich lineup. This month's special is the Barbecue Chicken Cheddar Melt sandwich. Free Yoga in the Garden 12 PM – 1 PM Free gentle yoga in the garden, taught by yoga instructor, Joan Hendrickson. Enjoy the beautiful creekside setting, and living things growing all around. Children welcomed. Steve Rose live at RVB 6 PM – 8 PM Steve Rose will be playing live in the taproom 7/31 from 6-8pm. Come enjoy the fun! July Jam 8 PM – 12 AM Come have a one of a kind good time! Saturday Aug, 1st Dillon Farmers' Market 9 AM – 1 PM South Washington Street by Jaycee Park, Hand made and home grown local specialties offered by up to 20 vendors. KneeJürk! At The Knotty Pine 8 PM-12 Am It’s KneeJürk! back at Knotty Pine! THIS SATURDAY NIGHT! 8-midnight! Bannack Barn Dance 7 PM – 10 PM Join us for an unforgettable night of music and dancing to the sounds of “Best of Bannack”. This group of talented musicians has been performing at the park for more than 25 years. So, dust off your hats and boots and dance the night away to classic Country & Western tunes in the pavilion at Bannack State Park. We hope to see you on the dance floor. Plenty of space for social distancing. What: Annual Barn Dance, featuring music from “Best of Bannack” When: Saturday, August 1, 2020 from 7pm to 10pm Where: Yankee Flats group use pavilion, Bannack State Park, 721 Bannack Rd, Dillon, MT ​ For more information, call the park office at (406) 834-3413. Sunday Aug, 2nd Not much going on this week as people begin to cancel events as COVID-19 cases rise. We will continue to keep you up to date on numbers and any other info we receive on it. Go out enjoy your weekend, practice social distancing, and wash your hands.

Press Release Sadie Caltrider July 30, 2020 Beaverhead County PIO COVID-19 Numbers in Beaverhead County At the writing of this press release Beaverhead County has confirmed 43 total cases since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently there are 18 active cases in Beaverhead County with 3 people currently hospitalized. The dramatic increase in local cases over the last few weeks has created an overwhelming workload for Public Health. Additional people have been called in to assist in contact tracing efforts. We want to take this time to urge people to remember to continue social distancing as much as possible and wearing face masks in public or if you cannot socially distance in groups of people that do not live in your household. Some cases have led to many close contacts because social distancing and mask wearing were not followed. Remember that your choices affect those around you. As with every case if you are not contacted by public health, you are not considered a close contact. A close contact to a positive case is considered someone who is within 6 feet for at least 15 minutes without a mask. Please do your part in keeping your community safe. Isolation of cases and quarantine of their close contacts can impact large segments of our community and could even lead to interruptions in services we rely on if those workers are quarantined. Continue to be vigilant hand-washers, remember to wear your masks in public, stay a cow’s length away from people that don’t live under your roof, and stay home when you’re not feeling well. These are four simple steps that we can all do will help slow the spread in our community.

Stand-up paddleboarders need to remember they are required to have a life jacket on board. The use of stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) has exploded in Montana over the past few years. And while the vessels are fun and easy to use, many people don’t realize that SUPs have equipment requirements, just like other vessels. In 2008, the U.S. Coast Guard determined that SUPs are considered to be a vessel when used outside a marked swimming area, and that state law applies for safety equipment. In addition to having a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket on the board, children under 12 years of age must wear a life jacket while on a SUP. Also, all people with watercraft, including SUPs, must stop at AIS inspections stations. For more information, check out the Montana boating regulations at fwp.mt.gov or pick up a copy at your local FWP office. If you have any questions, please contact Sara Smith, boating education coordinator for the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Recreational Boating Safety Program, at 406-444-5280 or sarsmith@mt.gov.

HELENA – The Montana Department of Commerce announced Tuesday that Montana Housing and NeighborWorks Montana will partner to increase awareness of the availability of rent and mortgage payment assistance as federal unemployment insurance benefits expire. “Montanans impacted by the economic effects of COVID-19 are not alone,” Montana Department of Commerce Director Tara Rice said. “Commerce has a good, longstanding relationship with NeighborWorks Montana and we are excited this partnership will help us deliver housing assistance to more Montanans faster and more efficiently.” NeigborWorks Montana will assist the program by providing technical support to renters and homeowners who apply for the Emergency Housing Assistance Program. The partnership will also create a coordinated and organized statewide system to improve the delivery of the program while increasing awareness of available assistance. The Emergency Housing Assistance Program provides rent, security deposit and mortgage payment assistance for Montanans who have lost a job or substantial income as a result of COVID-19. Applicants are eligible for up to $2,000 per month. The program pays the difference between 30 percent of the household’s current gross monthly income and their eligible housing assistance costs. Income limits range from $75,000-$125,000 annually based on family size. The program was created in May by Governor Steve Bullock using $50 million of Montana’s allocation of federal CARES Act dollars. As federal benefits expire, the state expects to see an uptick in the number of renters and homeowners in need of monthly assistance. “We know so many people across the state are struggling with disruptions caused by COVID. Stable housing is a critical need at any time, and particularly now,” NeighborWorks Montana Executive Director Kaia Peterson said. “We look forward to helping people meet their immediate needs with the help of the State’s Housing Assistance funds while also supporting clients as they work toward long-term housing stability and financial well-being.” Montana has been a national leader in using CARES funding for emergency housing relief. Six states and the city of Chicago have reached out to Montana to model their own programs on the Emergency Assistance Housing Program. To date, $1.06 million has been paid to landlords or mortgage servicers on behalf of renters or homeowners who apply. For more information and to apply visit COVIDRELIEF.MT.GOV .

Going on now is the first Dillon History Days. with something for everyone Dillon History Days is a great way to spend the day. Saturday July 25th All day Jack Shinkle- Log Cabin Demonstration at the Old Depot 10 AM to 3 PM Sidewalk sales and vendors 10 AM to 3 PM Living History at The Museum and various locations 12 PM to 2 PM Montana Western Campus tours with Mike Schulz, and Wally Feldt 2 PM to 2 AM Roaring 20's parties at the local speakeasies 4 PM & 7 PM filmed in Montana Movies at Big Sky Cinema 5 PM Mechanical bull riding at the Frontier Events Center Sunday July 26th 12 PM to 3 PM community picnic 1 PM Recognizing founders of the city 1:30 PM Live Auction Drawings through out the day

Lots going on this weekend, so here we go with another Weekend Rundown. Friday July 24th Tai Chi (free classes) 9:30 AM – 10:20 AM Dillon Elks Lodge Free Tai Chi classes continue. Please practice social distancing. Kick-Off Celebration - Ride for Respect 11 AM – 1 PM Our amazing Butte Law Enforcement will kick-off the Ride for Respect to welcome riders and to fellowship with fans of Special Olympics at Copper Canyon Harley on Friday, July 24th from 11-1 To support a rider you can make a flat donation or sponsor a rider on a per mile basis. To donate click or copy & paste this link: https://www.classy.org/campaign/2020-ride-for-respect/c283118 Join in on the celebration and enjoy a grab and go lunch from OMG food truck. See ya there! 🏍 ❤️ 🏃 Free Yoga in the Garden 12 PM – 1 PM Free gentle yoga in the garden, taught by yoga instructor, Joan Hendrickson. Enjoy the beautiful creekside setting, and living things growing all around. Children welcomed. Dillon History Days The event is centered in downtown Dillon, but includes all businesses and organizations in Beaverhead County. Tours of historic buildings and houses will be conducted throughout the area. Living history demonstrations will be developed based on railroad, agriculture, mining, logging, and more. Attendees are encouraged to dress in vintage clothing. This event is extremely important to the area, as it builds a strong community by celebrating Dillon and Beaverhead County, beginning with settlement in the Beaverhead Valley and the founding of Dillon in 1880. Dillon History Days will highlight the way progress has changed and shaped the town and area throughout the years. All businesses and organizations are called upon to prepare activities to show how they began, how they have evolved, and what they now bring to the community. Water to Whiskey 5K - 25th Annual Madison River Run 6 PM – 9 PM For many years, the Madison River Run was a local fun run that generally attracted 50 to 60 runners from Madison County and the rest of Southwest Montana. It is still a local fun run and it still attracts runners from Southwest Montana, but this is just the beginning. We have a new cool tag line name - the Water to Whiskey 5K - to reflect the Greater Yellowstone Adventure Series (GYAS) collaboration with Willies Distillery. For this 25th running of the event, we will start on the waters of the Madison and finish as close as possible to the tasting room of Willies Distillery. We got runners from all across the country coming to this one. Here’s a chance to do a 5K, take part in a community event, and taste some of Montana’s finest spirits at Willies Distillery and also grab a burger at the G Bar in downtown Ennis. The rest of Main Street is open for business. After that, you can fly fish the Madison, one of the best blue ribbon trout streams in the USA or make a day trip to Yellowstone. Strollers, walkers, kids, and all are completely welcome. It’s a fantastic way to spend a weekend in Southwest Montana. Live W/beth Millick @jackson Hot Springs Lodge 9 PM good times , people , staff and music and lets not forget the food and drinks!!! Saturday July 25th Dillon Farmers' Market 9 AM – 1 PM Hand made and home grown local specialties offered by up to 20 vendors. Bird's Eye View Guided Hike 10 AM – 12 PM Join us Saturday the 25th @10 for a guided hike of the Birds Eye View Trail! Learn more about the history of the park, the flora and fauna, and take in the amazing views! The 2 mile hike does has significant incline so please dress appropriately and bring water The Inaugural Madison Ultra Up - 50K straight up 5:30 AM – 1 PM By definition, an Ultra is any race longer than 26.2 miles or 42 kilometers. Most Ultras are either nice round numbers such as 50K, 100K, 50 Miles, 100 Miles and even 24 hours, or they are a specific distance between two points, e.g. the Badwater Ultra is 135 miles which is the distance from the lowest point in Death Valley to the highest point (original route) at Mount Whitney in the contiguous United States. That's most Ultras - a nice round number or a specific distance between two unique and iconic spots on a map. Because Montana is so awesome and has so much fantastic public land (Thank you Teddy Roosevelt!), we are doubly blessed. We are going to do both in one route and in two directions. One start/finish line is on the banks of the Madison River and one start/finish line is at Monument Ridge on top of the Gravelly Range. The Madison River is already famous among fly fishing aficionados. It's a blue ribbon trout stream. This means it's a fast flowing, cold water, not too deep, high elevation river with incredible rainbow, brown, and cut throat trout. People from around the world come to Southwest Montana for the sole purpose of casting a dry fly onto its waters. Monument Ridge is the highest point on the Gravelly Range Road. It is 9,587 feet above the oceans. When all the ups and downs are calculated, it's about 6,000 net vertical feet above the Madison River. Here's the cool part. The road distance between the banks of the Madison River and Monument Ridge? 50 kilometers. So you have a choice. A 50K uphill that starts on the cool, calming and tranquil waters of the Madison River and finishes at Monument Ridge, or a 50K downhill that starts at 9,587 feet and offers view sheds where you can see 100 miles on a clear day and finishes on the banks of the Madison River. How cool is that? Choose wisely. The route, obviously in either direction, is entirely on a decent quality gravel road. A regular car can travel on this road. In no way are these trail Ultras. There is basically no flat ground on the entire route. It's either leaning or crazily going uphill or downhill. If you're an Upper, there will be some downhill stretches, but not too many over the 50K. If you're a Downer the same thing holds in reverse. According to Garmin data collected from the Tour de Gravelly which covers the same route, the net gain/loss from the Madison River to Monument Ridge is 6,061 feet. That's a shitload of net gain/loss over 50K on a road. If you've never done an Ultra before, here's your chance. Sometimes you gotta say WTF. We've never been an RD for an Ultra and we’re saying WTF to two of 'em! Just those three words sound cool. They're even cooler sounding when you can add "and it had a 6,000 foot net gain on the route." Dillon History Days at the Dillon Elks The street will be closed and many events are happening both inside and outside of the Lodge to celebrate Dillon History Days. Come join us! Bannack camp trip ghost investigation 11 AM THERE ARE NO TICKETS REQUIRED. Just have to get a camp site or come up for the day with us. We will camp, tell stories, and ghost investigate during the day. In the evening we will have the telescope set up and look for ufos also go to the cemetery outskirts of town and investigate it. leave time we will meet at Belgrade albertsons at 11am or in the town about 1pm my camp spot is number 14 under Adams. I will give you guys directions and instructions before the camping and reminders this is coming up. I put the link to the campground in this event and on here. But you do not need a ticket. Any questions message us. https://www.reserveamerica.com/explore/bannack-state-park/MT/630310/overview Sunday July 26th 4th Annual Tour de Gravelly 6:30 AM – 3 PM Montana's newest and coolest gravel road cycling race Okay, we got our first three done. We're growing, getting good at this, and we are definitely onto something big. The net gain on this route is over 6,000 feet. That's one incredible uphill. The net drop is over 4,800 feet so after a huge uphill you get a white-knuckle downhill. Get ready for a cycling adventure of a lifetime. Beginning in 2020, there will be a choice of two routes for the Tour de Gravelly. These are ‘The Beast’ which is the original route of the first three years, and ‘The Animal’ which is about 20 miles shorter than the original but also goes up and over the Gravelly Range Road. Both races start at the same time and at the same place (6:30 AM at Lion’s Club Park in Ennis). Both races have the same finish line (Vigilante Station in the Ruby Valley). The routes are the same for the first 28 or so miles. The net elevation gain for The Beast is just over 6,000 feet. The net gain for The Animal is probably closer to 5,000 feet net gain though this has not yet been adequately measured nor has the total mileage – 35 miles is an estimate at this time. The Greater Yellowstone Adventure Series (GYAS) slogan lives up to its reputation with this race. It’s basically all uphill, and then there's one hell of a downhill. There will be water jugs at roughly five mile increments along the route. There will likely be huge gaps between yourself and other cyclists. There will be roving aid stations – volunteers in trucks – covering as much ground as possible, but we can’t be everywhere at the same time. If you’re the type of cyclists that needs a very defined and detailed agenda as well as support crews, this might not yet be the race for you. We’re just in year four and are still working things out. But if you want to join the fun and break some new ground with us, please do. The more, the merrier. Someone has to go first and you will be more than welcome to be part of the group. The race packets have the details as well as a route map. Suffice to say, this is a Bucket List kind of gravel road cycling race. Our vision is that it will be a national destination race. The route is just too damn beautiful and challenging for it not to be. Come see for yourself! Dont forget this weekend is the first Dillon Days, they will have a car show, car smash, many vendors, and a Mechanical Bull. There is also plenty to do around Dillon head to the hills and enjoy the cool air. Take a float down the river or head to the lake. If you have an upcoming event and want it in the weekend rundown or our events calendar email us at southwesternmtnews@gmail.com

The impacts of COVID-19 are of momentous concern for the Beaverhead Chamber of Commerce and the Dillon Convention and Visitor’s Bureau.  We adamantly support our businesses, residents, and guests to this area.  Furthermore, we believe firmly that the safety of our communities and their residents are the highest priority.  During the first six months of 2020 we have experienced a significant decline in revenue to both the chamber and the CVB due to COVID-19.  Most notably, bed tax revenue from our area was down by more than 90% for the first half of 2020.  In response to this unpreventable decline in revenue, The Montana Department of Commerce offered all CVB’s and resort areas in Montana supplemental funding through Federal CARES Act dollars they received.  The Dillon Area CVB was notified of our eligibility to receive a total of $16,296 as a Tier 1 recipient.  This funding was directed toward a scope of work outlined by the MT Department of Commerce through the following statement for all Tier 1 recipients:  “ … require these tourism partners to disseminate safety messaging content or materials provided by MOTBD or created in conjunction with MOTBD through a variety of methods applicable to that partner. These methods could include production and distribution of printed information to businesses, organizations, or posting in public places frequented by visitors; updating content on websites; social media posts (organic); electronic distribution via email or eblast. Additionally, the tourism partner will assist in local coordination as needed for specific initiatives such as encouragement of employee testing.” As with any contractual obligation, it is not always possible to document every aspect of each party’s commitment and responsibility.  We felt the undocumented commitment included in this scope of work could likely create a significant unfunded liability that we would have to balance when planning for the future needs of the organization and trying to re-open our communities and engage in promoting our area.  After much discussion and deliberation, we felt it would be best to focus our talents, time and efforts on subjects that can help move Dillon and our surrounding communities on to the next phase rather than focusing on duplicated distribution of undeveloped and/or unknown messaging.  We are also disappointed by the fact that Montana’s smallest CVB’s are not afforded funding to market their communities and their events like the Tier 2, Tier 3 and Tier 4 recipients.  These two factors led us to believe it was best to refuse the money and focus our attention on what we can do best to support our stakeholders rather than obligate ourselves to a commitment that would severely draw on our limited resources.   As always, the Beaverhead Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture and the Dillon Area CVB, welcome any questions, comments, input and volunteers from the community.  Our meetings are held the second Thursday of each month at 830a (contact the Chamber at 683-5511 for location specifics).   Respectfully,  The Board and Staff of the Beaverhead Chamber of Commerce of Agriculture / Dillon Area CVB

Governor Steve Bullock today announced the state will soon be able to expand surveillance COVID-19 testing for critical front-line health care personnel, essential workers and other groups thanks to a partnership with Montana State University. “Surveillance testing of asymptomatic individuals is a powerful tool in helping slow the spread of the virus in our Montana communities,” Bullock said. “Montana State University has been an enthusiastic partner in helping find a Montana solution to our testing capacity and I am incredibly grateful for their partnership as we work together to protect the health of Montanans.” Montana State University’s researchers will begin the surveillance testing next week, with a capability of testing 500 people per day. The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) will determine what Montana populations need to be tested for surveillance and then will ship the samples to a designated laboratory at MSU. “As the state’s land-grant university, this kind of service and outreach to the people of Montana is what we are called to do,” said Montana State University President Waded Cruzado. “Montana State University’s researchers have poured their creative energies into this project as well as other important endeavors that benefit the communities we serve." Montana State University will use four qPCR machines to do the surveillance testing at the direction of DPHHS. “This initiative is a step in the right direction and will serve us well in helping to detect the virus among asymptomatic groups of people so that we can take quick action to stop the virus from spreading,” said Montana National Guard Major General Matthew Quinn, who is leading the Governor’s Coronavirus Task Force. Governor Bullock also announced that the state has finalized a contract with a reference lab, MAKO Medical in North Carolina, to begin processing an anticipated 1,000 tests each day from Montana. The state will take a measured approach to ensure a reasonable turn-around time in receiving back test results.