Governments across the world offer tax credits for R&D as a way to encourage businesses to put money into research and development. Investments in research and development (R&D) that result in new goods, improved existing products, services, processes, and procedures, or prototypes are encouraged for businesses of all sizes, from huge corporations to small startups, through the tax credit. Companies can use their money to speed up research and development, increase their workforce, and ultimately expand their operations.

​For firms, R&D tax credits are crucial since they significantly reduce the overhead of R&D. This savings may be re-invested in the company or used to lower tax liability. In addition, the R&D tax credit can incentivize firms to engage in additional R&D activities by allowing them to recoup a portion of their spending on R&D and reduce the payroll taxes they owe. This can contribute to increased innovation and enhanced goods and services for end users while also providing eligible small businesses and startups the opportunity to make the most of government credit.

How Do R&D Tax Credits Work?

Those businesses that invest in researching and creating products, processes, or services or improving existing ones may be eligible for a tax credit. Suppose you are investing money in your innovation. In that case, you are eligible to file a claim for an R&D tax credit, which entitles you to either a cash reward or a reduction in your corporation's tax liability. The potential for locating R&D is enormous; in fact, it can be found in every industry. And if this is your first time making a claim, you can typically make a claim for R&D tax relief for the two most recent accounting periods that have been fully completed.

​Companies operating in various markets can qualify for research and development tax credits. For your business to be eligible, it must be actively involved in activities that entail creating new products, processes, techniques, recipes, inventions, or software or enhancing current ones. The following types of businesses typically qualify for the R&D tax credit:

Maximizing R&D Tax Credits

Best methods for claiming R&D tax credits in the future should be established immediately. Examples include:

‘​Tax credits for research and development are one form of government support for encouraging business innovation. An invention "virtuous circle" can be sparked by their presence. Though many forward-thinking companies claim R&D tax credits, few make optimal use of them.

Knowing there is room for improvement in your industry is the most obvious way to maximize your R&D tax credits. As we discussed above, if you see a product, service, or process in your business that you believe might use some enhancements, or if you see a need in your sector that you can fill, then, by all means, do so!

Keeping meticulous and orderly records is also highly advised. Naturally, you need to provide thorough documentation in support of your application, and you should also keep this documentation for your reference. Be prepared to demonstrate your dedication to your chosen field by documenting your involvement in relevant projects and pursuing relevant technological and scientific developments. Another crucial step is to maintain a detailed cost journal. Prototype and trial costs, as well as payments to connected parties like subcontractors, can fall into this category.

While on the topic of employee compensation, it's preferable to pay directors actively participating in the projects a salary rather than a dividend since wages are eligible for tax deductions. To get the most out of R&D tax credits and ensure that you don't miss out on any necessary funds, it's essential to have a thorough understanding of what qualifies as a claim. Discuss the matter with your accountant, or look for one specializing in R&D tax credits. Expert accountants will talk to you about your company and its activities to see if any projects qualify, and then they will write a report to back up your claim.

The Advantages of R&D Tax Credits

No restrictions

​Because there are no restrictions placed on the types of industries that can apply for R&D credits, any and all types of companies are encouraged to do so. There is a common misunderstanding that the only sectors that are eligible to apply for the tax credits are those that fall within the scientific and technological professions. This is because the tax credits are intended to be utilized to grow research or technology within your industry.

Not reimbursable

The tax credits are essentially interest-free financing for your company. They make it possible for your business to attract private capital, which can stimulate economic growth.

Driving Creativity

​Because of the amount of money you get to save because of R&D credits, you'll be able to position your business at the forefront of innovation. This is not only in the country but also on a global scale.

There is no required minimum claim

​You can make a claim for whatever amount that you have spent on research and development initiatives that meet the requirements, even if you run a small business with a limited budget.

Make a claim for a variety of expenses

The process of claiming research and development (R&D) credits involves a range of charges, some of which include subcontracting, the creation of prototypes, and technical analysis. According to HMRC, the following are the primary expenses that can be included in your tax return claim:

BOZEMAN — Logan Health has signed a letter of intent to donate land for a new nursing education building in Kalispell to be built with a portion of a $101 million investment by philanthropists Mark and Robyn Jones to Montana State University.

“We’re excited to be involved in this investment in the education for our future nurses. There’s no better training than learning alongside the highly qualified, experienced nurses at Logan Health, and we’re honored to host nursing students from many programs within the state,” said Logan Health Medical Center President and Chief Nursing Officer April McGauley. “This new facility will help increase the number of graduating nurses, which will help us better serve our patients.”

In August 2021, Mark and Robyn Jones announced a philanthropic investment of $101 million to Montana State University for the construction of new, larger, state-of-the-art educational facilities on the five campuses of its nursing college in Bozeman, Billings, Great Falls, Kalispell and Missoula. This investment provides the first opportunity to have university-owned facilities in Billings, Great Falls, Kalispell and Missoula, which currently utilize leased facilities.

MSU’s nursing college, now named the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing, provides baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral educated nurses but has been unable to significantly increase its number of graduates due to limited space. With the Joneses’ philanthropic investment providing new facilities in five cities across the state, the college aims to fill the state’s projected shortfall of nurses by 2030.

“Montana State University’s ongoing partnership with Logan Health is critically important to our nursing college’s efforts to meet the state’s projected shortfall of registered nurses,” said MSU President Waded Cruzado. “We are grateful to Logan Health for this incredible gift and equally grateful for their continued partnership.”

Logan Health will provide land located on the north side of its Kalispell campus for the new nursing education building.

“We are pleased to be part of this project and are excited to have enhanced nursing education on our campus,” said Logan Health President and CEO Dr. Craig Lambrecht. “Partnerships like these offer significant benefits to our community and will positively impact patient care for years to come.” 

Mark and Robyn Jones are the founders of Goosehead Insurance Inc., which has offices across the nation. Founded in 2003 by Robyn Jones, Goosehead now has more than 2,300 offices in the U.S.

The Joneses, who have a home in Whitefish, have said their intention with the $101 million is to help address one of the most defining challenges of our time: access to health care, particularly for residents of rural and frontier communities, where there is low population and high geographic remoteness.

The Joneses’ philanthropic investment — the largest ever given to a college of nursing at the time, as well as the largest private gift in the history of the state of Montana — will:

• Provide funding for new, university-owned facilities at each of the MSU College of Nursing’s five campuses in Bozeman, Billings, Great Falls, Kalispell and Missoula. Equipped with modern classrooms and state-of-the-art simulation labs, nursing students will hone their critical thinking and practice their skills in these new facilities.
• Establish five endowed faculty professorships — the first in the history of the MSU College of Nursing. These endowed professorships will position MSU to attract top faculty talent during a nationwide nursing faculty shortage.
• Develop an endowed scholarship fund that will allow the MSU College of Nursing to keep the cost of nursing education affordable for all students.
• Support the development of a certified nurse midwifery program at MSU, which would be the first and only program of its kind in the state, for preparing doctoral level nurses who will significantly increase the number of specialized maternal health care providers capable and willing to provide services to rural and remote communities in Montana.

Logan Health is a nonprofit, 603-bed health system based in Kalispell. While the main medical campus is located in Flathead County, Logan Health draws from a total service area covering 13 counties, nearly 40,000 square miles and a population of more than 600,000. The health system consists of six hospitals, more than 50 provider clinics and a host of other health care services, including the nation’s first rural air ambulance service (A.L.E.R.T.), which it has maintained for more than 40 years.

The Logan Health land donation will go before the Montana Board of Regents of the Montana University System for approval.

Founded in 1937, Montana State University’s Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing offers bachelor’s, accelerated bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral-level nursing education to produce nurses, nurse leaders, nurse educators and nurse practitioners for Montana. Great Falls was the first location where upper division, clinical nursing education was offered, followed by the establishment of the Billings nursing campus in 1939, Missoula campus in 1976, and Kalispell campus in 2002. While nursing majors have taken prerequisite courses in Bozeman at MSU since 1937, upper division or clinical nursing education was first offered at the Bozeman campus location in 2004. 

Montana State is the largest producer of registered nurses in Montana and is the sole provider of doctoral nurse practitioner education in the state. More information is available at montana.edu/nursing. 

The world of online dating is the primary way people meet each other these days. Online dating has its benefits, including the chance to meet people you wouldn’t otherwise come across in your daily life. At the same time, when you date someone you meet online, safety has to be a top priority. From looking up someone’s basic information online to verify they are who they say they are to doing a full background check, there are certain things you can do to improve your safety. The following are five things to do before you meet someone from an app or website. 

1. Talk On the Phone

If you’re thinking about meeting someone in person who you’ve come across on a dating site or app, one of the first things you should do is talk to them on the phone. If you haven’t already, make sure you do it before meeting in person. There are reasons this is important. First, you want to make sure that the person sounds the way you would expect and that the things they tell you on the phone match what they’ve shared in messages with you. You’ll get more of a feel for their personality, you’ll have a better idea of whether you’re being catfished, and you can make sure that you still mesh well when you’re talking compared to how you got along in your messages. The faster you can take things offline, the better. It’s not a good idea to put a lot of time and effort into any relationship where the person seems reluctant to take things offline. This is a big red flag unless there’s a major logistical reason you can’t talk on the phone and meet in person somewhat quickly. It’s much easier to assess whether you actually see someone as a potential partner when you meet in person. 

2. Confirm Claims

When someone tells you things about themselves online, you have options for confirming those details. For example, you want to make sure the person you’re talking to actually exists. You can do a check of their name, and you can also do a quick background search. You can check for criminal records, and you can also look at places like LinkedIn, if they have one, to ensure things line up. If someone tells you they’re a successful doctor and you can’t find a digital footprint to verify this, chances are there’s an issue that you need to look into further before meeting in person. 

3. FaceTime or Ask for a Picture

The person you’ve been talking to online has likely already sent you pictures of themselves, or you’ve seen them on your dating profile, but it’s easy to steal images from elsewhere and pass them off as your own. You can check out the pictures they’ve sent you so far with a reverse image search. It’s also a great idea to do at least one FaceTime or video call before meeting in person to again, make sure you aren’t getting catfished. You can also ask them to take a picture where they’re doing something that would be very hard to replicate, like holding up a sign with the date. 

4. Meet in a Public Place Where You Feel Comfortable

When you meet someone for the first time, you always want to meet in public. Never have your first meeting be at either of your houses or anywhere that’s not completely public. It can also be a good idea to suggest somewhere that’s your “turf,” like your favorite neighborhood coffee shop. You want to choose a place, if possible, that you’ve been to before, so you feel comfortable and know your way around. When you know seemingly little things like what you want to order from the menu or where the bathroom is, not only will you feel safer and more comfortable, but it can help the meeting go better. Speaking of meeting at your favorite neighborhood coffee shop, a first meeting that’s casual is best. If you go for a dinner date as your first meeting, you run the risk of having to spend more time with someone than you end up wanting to. You want a date that, if you feel like you need to, is easy to get out of. 

5. Tell Someone Where You’ll Be

Finally, you want to make sure you let at least one family member or friend know where you’re going to be and who you’re meeting. You should also let them know when you get home because, at the end of the day, no matter how common online dating is these days, you’re still meeting a stranger for the first time. 

HELENA – Wolf and Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations for the 2022-2023 season are now available online. Print versions will be available at FWP offices and other outlets in a few weeks.

Hunters and trappers will notice these regulations were combined into one book this year.

A couple of things to point out in the regulations include:

• Trapper education is required for any resident trapper who has not purchased a trapping license for three years in their lifetime (does not need to be consecutive). This does not apply to those trapping for the purposes of livestock or property protection.
• Wolf trapping dates in occupied grizzly bear habitat may open prior to Dec. 31. Check FWP website for status of trapping dates beginning Nov. 21.
• Wolf trapping quotas are set statewide, by trapping district, and by wolf management unit 313. See page 15 of the regulations.
• Wolf snaring is prohibited on public land within Lynx Protection Zones(LPZ). See page 13 of the regulations for additional information on LPZs.
• The capture of any animal that cannot be lawfully trapped, including domestic animals, must be reported to FWP within 24 hours.

Wolf season dates are:

• Archery: Sept. 3 - Sept. 14
• General: Sept. 15 - March 15, 2023
• Trapping: Nov. 28 - March 15, 2023. These dates do not apply to occupied grizzly bear habitat as depicted on page 14 of the regulations. For these areas, the wolf trapping season will start on Dec. 31 unless otherwise determined by FWP due to evidence the majority of bears in these areas have begun hibernation. Trappers should be aware that grizzly bears exist in much of the western half of Montana and should always be prepared to encounter a grizzly bear while trapping. For more information see page 15 of the regulations.

Furbearer season dates are:

• Trapping Districts 1, 2 & 3
  • Beaver: Nov. 1 - Apr. 15, 2023
  • Bobcat: Dec. 1 - Feb. 15, 2023*
• Trapping Districts 4, 5, 6 & 7
  • Beaver: Sept. 1 - May 31, 2023
  • Bobcat: Dec. 1 - Mar. 1, 2023*
• Portion of Trapping District 6
  • Swift Fox: Nov. 1 - Jan. 15, 2023*
• Fisher, Marten
  • Where open: Dec. 1 - Feb. 15, 2023*
• Mink, Muskrat, Otter
  • Nov. 1 - Apr. 15, 2023*

*May close earlier when the quota is reached.

On Thursday, September 1^st, 2022, at 5:30 p.m., Gallatin County Dispatch received a call from Park County for a lost person in the Fairy Lake area.  GCSO Deputies learned that about 10:00 a.m., two people were camping at the Fairly Lake Campground when one decided to take a ride on their dirtbike.  After becoming lost on some trails, and many hours of trying to find their way back, the lost party was able to contact the remaining camper who eventually called for help.

Once notified, Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue Valley Section was able to send a locator through their mapping system to get an exact location on the missing party. Based on this information, SAR teams deployed to the North Cottonwood Trailhead to hike to the area of the missing person. Two teams departed up the trail, one hasty team to reach the patient as quickly as possible, followed by a team with additional medical supplies and the one-wheeled litter.  Just after dark the hasty team made contact with the party and assessed the patient, who had sustained minor injuries, was dehydrated, and was suffering from exhaustion.

Rescuers provided medical aid and sustenance to the patient.  After a short recovery time the patient was able to hike under their own power 5 miles to the trailhead where they were reunited with their family.

Sheriff Dan Springer reminds backcountry users to use caution when in the backcountry.  Make sure to tell people where you are going and when to expect you back.  Enjoy the backcountry with other people when possible and carry a means of communication with you.

Photos courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.

For those who don't know yet, New Jersey is an amazing place. It's home to some of the best beaches on the East Coast, charming small towns, and stunningly beautiful scenery. And fall is the perfect time to enjoy all that New Jersey has to offer.
 
If you're looking for a beautiful place to visit in New Jersey this fall, here are 10 places you won't want to miss.
 
1. The Delaware Water Gap
 
The Delaware Water Gap is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and fishing. But it's also one of the most beautiful places in New Jersey. The colors of the leaves change early in October and make for some stunning scenery.
 
2. Cape May Point State Park
 
Cape May Point State Park is a great place to see migrating birds in the fall. But it's also one of the most beautiful places in New Jersey. The colors of the leaves change early in October and make for some stunning scenery.
 
3. High Point State Park
 
High Point State Park is home to the highest point in New Jersey. But it's also one of the most beautiful places in New Jersey. The colors of the leaves change early in October and make for some stunning scenery.
 
4. Rutgers Gardens
 
Rutgers Gardens is a great place to see fall foliage. The gardens are open to the public from dawn to dusk, and there's no charge for admission.
 
5. The Pine Barrens
 
The Pine Barrens is a unique area of New Jersey that's home to some of the state's most beautiful scenery. The colors of the leaves change early in October and make for some stunning scenery.
 
6. Sourland Mountain Preserve
 
Sourland Mountain Preserve is a great place to hike, bike, or just enjoy the scenery. The colors of the leaves change early in October and make for some stunning scenery.
 
7. Allaire State Park
 
Allaire State Park is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and fishing. But it's also one of the most beautiful places in New Jersey. The colors of the leaves change early in October and make for some stunning scenery.
 
8. Waterloo Village
 
Waterloo Village is a historic village that's been restored to its 19th-century appearance. It's a great place to visit any time of year, but the fall foliage is especially beautiful.
 
9. The Jersey Shore
 
The Jersey Shore is one of the most popular summer destinations in New Jersey. But it's also a great place to visit in the fall. The weather is still warm enough to enjoy the beach, and the crowds have thinned out by this time of year.
 
10. Princeton University Campus
 
Princeton University is one of the most prestigious universities in the country. But it's also one of the most beautiful campuses you'll ever see. The colors of the leaves change early in October and make for some stunning scenery.
 
So there you have it, 10 of the most beautiful places in New Jersey to visit this fall. Where will you go first? But before you let us know, let's dive into a few essential steps in organizing your trip!
 
Planning Your Trip to New Jersey This Fall
 
Now that you know where you want to go, it's time to start planning your trip. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you plan your trip to New Jersey this fall.
 
1. Check the weather forecast.
 
The weather can change quickly in New Jersey, so it's important to check the forecast before you head out. If you're planning on hiking or spending time outdoors, you'll want to make sure the weather is cooperating.
 
2. Pack appropriately.
 
New Jersey can be warm during the day and cool at night, so make sure to pack a jacket or sweater. And if you're planning on hiking, don't forget to pack comfortable shoes and clothes.
 
3. Make reservations.
 
If you're planning on staying in a hotel or campground, make sure to make your reservations early. New Jersey is a popular destination, so accommodations fill up quickly during the peak season.
 
4. Plan your route.
 
New Jersey is a large state, so it's important to plan your route before you hit the road. If you're not sure where to start, check out our list of 10 scenic drives in New Jersey.
 
5. Book a car service for your Westchester airport transportation.
 
Last but not least, don't forget to book your car service for your Westchester airport transportation to make your trip to New Jersey hassle-free. From sedans and SUVs to vans and limousines, you'll find the perfect vehicle for your group, you're guaranteed to arrive on time and in style.
 
Now that you know so much about New Jersey, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

Denver visitors always want to repeat the experience and it's easy to see why. The combination of a beautiful setting, a vibrant culture and recreation galore creates an irresistible draw. Here are some of the best things to do in Denver, whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler.

1. Take a Hike or Bike Ride in the Rocky Mountains

No visit to Denver is complete without getting outdoors and enjoying the Rocky Mountains. There are plenty of ways to do this, whether you're a hiker, biker, skier or snowboarder. For those who want to stick to the city, there are also plenty of parks and green spaces to explore.

2. Visit Historic Larimer Square

Larimer Square is the city's oldest and most historic block, dating back to the 1800s. Today, it's home to some of Denver's best restaurants, bars and shops. It's also the perfect place to people watch or take in some live music.

3. Sample the Local Craft Beer Scene

Denver is known for its craft beer scene, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy it. You can take a brewery tour, visit a beer garden or simply sample the wares at your local bar or restaurant. Whatever you do, make sure to try a Colorado-brewed IPA.

4. Shop 'Til You Drop at the 16th Street Mall

The 16th Street Mall is a pedestrian-friendly, open-air mall that stretches for more than a mile. It's home to more than 200 stores and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon (or two).

5. Learn About the Wild West at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is one of the city's most popular attractions. It's perfect for those who want to learn about the area's history and natural environment. The museum also has an IMAX theater, making it a great option for a rainy day.

6. Soak Up the Sun at Washington Park

Washington Park is one of Denver's largest and most popular parks. It's home to a lake, a playground, a botanical garden and plenty of open space. It's the perfect place to spend a summer afternoon picnicking, playing sports or simply relaxing.

7. Take a Self-Guided Tour of the City

There are plenty of ways to explore Denver on your own, whether you're interested in architecture, art or history. Start at the Visitors Center for a map and suggestions, then strike out on your own. You might be surprised at what you find.

8. Enjoy Some Retail Therapy at Cherry Creek Shopping Center

Cherry Creek Shopping Center is one of the city's premier shopping destinations. It's home to more than 200 stores, including upscale brands like Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. There's also a wide selection of restaurants, so you can refuel after a long day of shopping.

9. See the City from Above on the Denver Skyline

The best way to see Denver is from above, and there are plenty of ways to do it. You can take a scenic drive up into the mountains, ride the aerial tram at the Ski Area or take a hot air balloon ride over the city.

10. Catch a Show at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is one of Denver's most popular attractions. The outdoor venue is known for its incredible acoustics and scenic setting. It's the perfect place to see a concert or catch a movie under the stars.

To make the most of your trip here, you should organize your itinerary and book your activities in advance. Remember to check the weather forecast too, so you can plan accordingly. Denver is a great city to visit any time of year.

As for packing, we would suggest you'll need to bring your own hiking gear if you plan on spending time in the mountains. In the city, comfortable shoes are a must, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. And don't forget a jacket, as the weather can change quickly at high altitudes.

A Denver car service can help you get around the city and make the most of your time here. Plus, you'll be able to sit back and relax while someone else does the driving. You will need a reliable limo service to take you to and from your desired locations in a timely manner so that you can focus on enjoying your time in the city.

If you're looking for things to do in Denver, you've come to the right place. This guide will help you find the best activities and attractions in the city, whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler. With so many options, you might need more than one trip to experience everything Denver has to offer. Enjoy!

BOZEMAN – Farmers, ranchers and local food processors can learn strategies for growing and selling their products to school districts at the Montana Farm to School producer training this September.  

The Montana Team Nutrition Program at Montana State University, the Montana Office of Public Instruction and project partners are offering two trainings this fall, the first beginning Sept. 15 and the second date to be announced later. The trainings are free with registration. Each is divided into three sessions over three weeks with different content each week, and it is intended that individuals will attend all three sessions. Two of the sessions will be held virtually, and one will be in person in Great Falls. 

“When area farmers sell their products to schools, everyone wins,” said Aubree Roth, Montana Farm to School coordinator. “Farmers have a reliable market, dollars get recirculated in the community and, most importantly, students get to enjoy local, fresh, nutritious and delicious food.”  

Producers who attend this training will:  

• Learn about accessing school markets and growing products for schools.  
• Hear from producers who have successfully navigated school markets.  
• Gain new knowledge and resources for integrating school markets into a business plan.  
• Meet local peers and experts.  
• Experience school markets and farms, including a tour of Timeless Foods in Ulm. 

Schools can be a strong market for local producers, with over 58% of Montana schools participating in at least one of the three core elements of farm-to-school — serving local food in school meals, growing and raising food with children, and offering food, nutrition and agriculture education — according to data collected by Montana Office of Public Instruction. 

Attendees can apply for travel cost support during registration. For more information and to register before Sept. 14, visit montana.edu/mtfarmtoschool/resources/training-event.html.  

The project is supported in part by the Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Farm to School Network, and Montana Wheat and Barley Committee. 

Each year hundreds of skaters from across the country attempt to qualify for a shot at winning a National title at the Solo and Shadow Ice Dancing Championships. Next month, 14 year-old Josephine Javing will be traveling to Santa Clarita, California to do just that.


Josephine started skating at 3 years old in the Learn to Skate program, and then began training with longtime Bozeman Figure Skating Club coaches Amy Malachowski and Kari Barbo. This year, Josephine enlisted the expert guidance of Coach Naomi Lang and entered the highly competitive solo and shadow ice dancing National Qualifying Series, and made history for the club by earning a spot in the National Championships next month. Her Mom, Kelli, was instrumental in supporting Josephine as the two traveled to competitions in Chandler, Las Vegas, Peoria, Provo, and Sun Valley throughout the season.

Gallatin Ice Skating Director, Jonathon 'Dougherty, says, "I couldn't be more proud to see one of our club skaters represent us on the national stage. What Josephine has accomplished in her first season in this discipline is outstanding. Competing at a National Championships is no small feat, and I hope this serves as an inspiration to all of our skaters. Josephine has worked hard and it is great to see that hard work pay off."

BOZEMAN — Montana State University’s Steer-A-Year program is seeking donations of steers and feed as well as financial support for the 2022-23 academic year.

A student program in MSU’s College of Agriculture combining academic courses with hands-on, technical experience, Steer-A-Year involves students in multiple aspects of raising cattle. Students spend the academic year feeding and managing steers, caring for them through the winter and spring, collecting data on feed efficiency and weight gain, and studying livestock marketing.

“Steer-A-Year is a valuable program for our students, as it gives them hands-on experience of raising cattle as well as proper preparation for their future careers,” said Hannah DelCurto-Wyffels, the program’s adviser and an instructor in the Department of Animal and Range Sciences. “There is so much to learn about the cattle industry and providing our students with a hands-on program of this caliber gives them the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.”

Donated steers are housed at MSU’s Bozeman Agriculture Research and Teaching Farm. After being cared for by the students through the academic year, the cattle are sold annually to MSU’s Culinary Services, and the meat is served in both on-campus dining halls, Miller and Rendezvous.

Proceeds from those sales support travel and other costs for various student teams and clubs in the College of Agriculture, as well as opportunities for students to meet with commodity groups and industry professionals, such as the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Montana Stockgrowers Association and the Montana Farm Bureau Federation, allowing for additional networking and learning opportunities.

Steer-A-Year students raised 27 steers during the 2021-22 academic year, all of which were purchased by Culinary Services.

“There’s so much to like about this program, including the opportunities and experiences our students get, ensuring our Culinary Services team is serving Montana beef and providing our producers with valuable comparative information” said Carl Yeoman, head of the Department of Animal and Range Sciences. “Students caring for the cattle provide donors with regular reports on their donated animal’s growth and health, as well as detailed information about meat quality after the steers are harvested.”

Awards are given annually to the producer who donated the best initial feeder steer, the steer with the top rate of gain, the steer with the best feed efficiency and the steer that produces the best carcass.

“The opportunity for our students to interact with regional cattle producers is an irreplaceable and crucial experience,” DelCurto-Wyffels said. “The generosity of our supporters is truly what makes this program possible, and we thank them for investing in our students’ futures.”

DelCurto-Wyffels said that before donation, calves should be weaned, castrated and dehorned and weigh 500-800 pounds. The ideal pickup period for calves is during the first two weeks of November. Those interested in donating steers or feed, providing financial support or learning more about the Steer-A-Year program can contact Hannah DelCurto-Wyffels at 406-994-3752 or hannah.delcurto@montana.edu.