BOZEMAN — Two grants from the Idaho National Laboratory are advancing the work of researchers at Montana State University’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Gianforte School of Computing to make the country’s critical infrastructure safer from cyberattacks.  

“Cybersecurity impacts us all whether we know it or not,” said Todd Kaiser, head of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering. “It protects our personal data, fiscal transactions, energy delivery and eventually all aspects of our life.”  

In January, INL awarded a $255,000, three-year grant to electrical and computer engineering professor Brock LaMeres and Clemente Izurieta, professor of computer science and co-director of the Software Engineering and Cybersecurity Lab, to fund a project called “Programmable Hardware Authenticity Self Evaluation.”  

Also in January, INL awarded $210,000 to Bradley Whitaker, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, for a project “Artificial Neural Network Enabled Decode of Gigabit Ethernet.”  

“This isn’t like protecting documents on a network in the cloud,” said LaMeres, who also directs MSU’s Montana Engineering Education Research Center. “We’re concerned with things like the electrical power grid, water treatment plants and hospital treatment networks.”   

Those areas are especially attractive targets to hackers, he said.   

“There are foreign adversaries that would like to cause chaos by potentially weakening our defense,” LaMeres said. “There are also domestic attackers who wish to make money off ransomware attacks and bad actors who simply want to see whether they can bring something down.”   

The malicious activities that concern LaMeres and Izurieta are called “side-channel attacks,” which attackers use to passively monitor a computer system’s power consumption. Sophisticated attackers can use that information to determine when the computer might be performing particular tasks, suggesting when the system is most vulnerable to attack. 

“What [Izurieta] and I are doing is trying to confuse the attacker by obfuscating the power signature of the computer,” LaMeres said.  

Previous countermeasures relied on software to forestall attackers, but that approach can create a signature decipherable by high-tech hackers.   

To eliminate these telltale signatures, the two scientists are building on technology LaMeres developed for computers used in space. In space, radiation can damage sensitive computer hardware such as microchips and processors. LaMeres and Izurieta use a related technology called a field programmable gate array that allows the computer to create random signals to help defend against would-be attackers.  

“Think of it as randomizing a sentence’s letters by scrambling them,” said Izurieta. “And only we – not the hackers – know how to unscramble that. So, an attacker won’t be able to do nefarious things with these computers. We can borrow from these scrambling technologies to create random signatures that hackers will not understand when performing side-channel attacks.” 

Whitaker’s research involves the other side of this equation: identifying and monitoring potentially malicious incoming instructions from bad actors.   

“My aim is to automatically detect and interpret how computers talk to each other,” Whitaker said. “From a security perspective, you can insert yourself into a communication pipeline without disturbing the incoming message in a way that neither the sender nor the receiver would know that the communication was intercepted. As some people say, the best cyber defense is a good cyber offense.”  

Two graduate students and two undergraduates work on these projects.  

Welcome fellow green thumbs of Bozeman! As the days grow longer and the snow gives way to sprouting flowers, one thing is for sure. Many homeowners start itching to dig in and revitalize our gardens.

Whether you're a seasoned horticulturist or just starting to nurture your green finger, liaising with the right garden center can be instrumental in transforming your outdoor space.

Luckily for us, Bozeman is home to several top-notch nurseries that offer more than just adorable plants. They’re also treasure troves of expertise and inspiration. Join in as we explore five fantastic local gems you may need to bring your garden dreams to life this season.

1. Cashman Nursery and Landscaping

First up, Cashman Nursery and Landscaping stands tall as the oak of Bozeman’s garden centers. Bursting with plants that thrive in Montana climate, their knowledgeable staff is like your personal gardening encyclopedia.

From hardy perennials to ornamental trees, the garden center is home to literally all the flora you need to make your neighbors green with envy. And with over a century nurturing Bozeman's landscapes, this garden center's roots in the community are as deep and widespread as the mycelium beneath our feet.

2. The Garden Barn

Now, if you're cruising for a lush oasis, make your way to The Garden Barn. A local's favorite spot where variety meets quality – think of it like the candy store for plant lovers.

Their shelves are stocked with everything from vibrant annuals to rugged native plants and soil supplements that will have your garden blooming like a Montana meadow in July. Plus, their pots and planters? They're the cherry on top of this green haven.

3. Wagner Nursery & Landscape Company

Venture out to Wagner Nursery & Landscape Company and you'll feel like you've stepped into the pages of a gardening magazine. Their selection is vast, offering eye-catching choices for both newbie gardeners and botanical wizards alike.

Here, amid the rows of flowering beauties and robust shrubs, advice flows as freely as the Gallatin River during melt season—ensuring you leave with not just plants but also a fountain of gardening wisdom.

4. Oak Gardens Nursery

Over at Oak Gardens Nursery, you'll find that passion for plants is the seed of their service. This hidden gem is like a trusty companion in your gardening journey — cozy, welcoming, and brimming with horticultural gems.

Their staff will chat with you as if you're old friends sharing secret recipes, but instead of food, it's tips on the best heirloom tomatoes or drought-resistant foliage. It’s no nursery; it’s a sanctuary where every visit cultivates inspiration and connection.

5. Planet Natural Garden Center

Delve into the organic side of gardening with a trip to Planet Natural Garden Center. It's a haven for those who cultivate their gardens as nature intended—free from synthetic chemicals.

Here, alongside heirloom seeds and organic fertilizers, you'll find an eco-conscious community eager to share sustainable gardening practices. It's not just about growing plants; it's about nurturing ecosystem-friendly spaces that thrive season after season.

Staying Organized with Your Garden

As you set out to grow a garden that's the envy of your neighborhood, keeping organized is vital. It's like piecing together a jigsaw puzzle; every plant has its perfect place.

Invest in a good planner or gardening app to track what’s planted where and when it’s time to water or harvest. This structured approach will ensure your garden not only looks beautiful but also thrives systematically with the harmonious balance of nature.

It's time to grab those gardening gloves and head out! Armed with the support from these Bozeman garden centers, you're ready to cultivate a little patch of paradise. Get planting and let the blooms speak for themselves.

GREAT FALLS – Did you draw a Smith River Permit? Check the permit lottery results now on FWP’s website.  

Successful applicants will be also notified via email. Links within the email will allow permit holders to download and print their float permit, as well as access important and detailed information regarding their upcoming Smith River float.  

Permits are required to float the iconic 59-mile stretch of the Smith River, which is celebrated for its spectacular scenery, remote location and excellent trout fishing. 

The number of applications received this year was down slightly, with 12,452 applicants (14,518 in 2023). A total of 978 float permits were awarded for launch dates between April 1 and Aug. 15. Montana residents drew 867 float permits, while nonresidents drew 111. In years with average winter snowpack and spring-summer precipitation, the Smith River is typically floatable from mid-April to mid-July.   

For applicants who were unsuccessful in the regular permit drawing, Smith River Super Permit chances are available through March 22 for $5 each. One Super Permit winner will be allowed to launch on any date of their choosing. Chances may be purchased online at FWP’s website. The Super Permit drawing will be held on March 26.  

Floaters may also call the Smith River reservation and information line at 406-454-5861 beginning Monday, March 4, to request any remaining launch dates or cancelled permits. The call line will be open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to noon. 

Floaters should be aware of the following items this year: 

• Pit toilets will no longer be provided in 2024, and floaters are required to pack out human waste.  
• Floater registration will occur via phone, two days in advance of each scheduled launch date. In addition, the river rangers will assign a one-hour time interval for each float group to approach the boat ramp to launch. 
• Camp Baker is a day-use only site, with no overnight camping allowed, except for the period of Sept. 1 through Nov. 30. 

For more information about Smith River State Park visit:  fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/smith-river. 

Bozeman, Montana, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant community. It's a place where each corner holds something new to explore, making it an exceptional backdrop for celebrating Mother's Day. 

Whether your mom delights in nature, savors exquisite dining, or cherishes relaxation, Bozeman offers a plethora of venues that can cater to any preference. From the charming streets of downtown to the serene ambiance of Hyalite Canyon and beyond, this guide walks you through fantastic locations in the Bozeman area perfect for honoring Mom on her special day. 

Charming Main Street

Main Street in Bozeman is like stepping into a cozy, picturesque world. It's dotted with unique shops perfect for finding that one-of-a-kind Mother's Day gift—imagine the smile on her face when she unwraps something chosen just for her. 

And let’s not skim over the delightful coffee spots and bakeries; they're ideal for kickstarting this special day. With Café M, Wild Crumb Bakery, Vienne, and others located close together, strolling down Main Street isn’t just dining or shopping—it’s creating memories with Mom in Bozeman’s heart. 

Hyalite Canyon for Outdoor Adventure 

For moms who crave a little adventure and nature, Hyalite Canyon is the ticket. Just a short drive from Bozeman, this spot unfolds like a scene from those vibrant postcards you always wish you were in. The canyon offers everything from serene hikes to picnicking by the crystal-clear reservoir—all against the backdrop of breathtaking mountain views.

It’s not just about soaking in the sights; it’s about creating those priceless moments with Mom. Whether you’re snapping photos, sharing stories on a trail, or simply enjoying the tranquil scenery together, Hyalite Canyon is proof that Mother’s Day doesn’t have to be all brunches and bouquets—it can be an unforgettable outdoor escapade, too. 

The Bozeman Hot Springs for Relaxation

After all the exploring and dining, mellowing out at The Bozeman Hot Springs can be the cherry on top for a perfect Mother's Day. Just picture it: you and Mom, unwinding in natural hot springs, surrounded by the serene Montana landscape. It's not just about soaking in warm waters; it's an invitation to slow down and cherish these moments of relaxation together.

And if Mom’s into pampering (who isn't?), surprise her with a spa treatment—maybe a massage or facial. It’s that blend of nature's tranquility and a touch of luxury that makes this spot an ideal finale to your celebration. 

Tanglewood Grill & Tap

Another must-visit spot for Mom's special day is Tanglewood Grill & Tap. Nestled comfortably within Bozeman’s bustling dining scene, this gem stands out with its unique blend of casual comfort and a slightly upscale vibe - kind of like that sweet spot between laid-back and fancy that not many places hit right. 

What sets Tanglewood Grill & Tap apart isn't just their drool-worthy food; it's also their cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. It’s airy, inviting, and exactly the kind of place where you want to linger over your meal, share stories, and just enjoy being together. Plus, their selection of local beers on tap (and we all know Montana does beer pretty darn well) can add an extra layer of chill to your celebration.

Forgot the Card? Send an eCard Instead

It’s not uncommon to craft the perfect Mother's Day itinerary but later realize you left the card on your kitchen counter or just somewhere. But this slip-up doesn't have to dampen the day. In today’s digital age, you can whip up a heartfelt gesture in no time. 

Numerous websites and apps let you create and send a virtual Mother's Day card that can be as chic, funny, or touching as you like. You can even add photos or custom messages to make Mom feel loved and appreciated. 

Conclusion 

So there you have it—a roundup of some standout spots in Bozeman that are sure to make this year’s Mother's Day unforgettable. From the cozy corridors of Main Street and the natural wonders of Hyalite Canyon to luxurious relaxation at The Bozeman Hot Springs, each location promises a unique way to celebrate.

Don't forget, whether you're dining under elegant art or sending a virtual Mother’s Day card from afar, the heart of the celebration is showing Mom just how much she means to you. Here's to creating new memories and honoring those priceless moments with your mom in Bozeman!

BOZEMAN — Montana State University’s ongoing efforts to strengthen rural education across the state received a boost recently with a $2.5 million grant from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies.

The grant, which runs for two and a half years, will fund the second iteration of a program called Advancing Support, Preparation and Innovation in Rural Education, or ASPIRE. The project is housed in MSU’s Center for Research on Rural Education and aims to establish a blueprint for attracting, preparing, developing and retaining teachers for rural schools and communities in Montana.

The work builds off a previous $1.5 million grant from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies awarded to MSU in 2021 for the first phase of the work, known as ASPIRE 1.0.

“In keeping with Montana State University’s land-grant mission, MSU’s Center for Research on Rural Education designed the ASPIRE project to address the alarming rural teacher shortage and ensure that students in small, rural and remote schools and communities are taught by well-prepared and supported teachers,” the researchers wrote in a description of their current project, which they are calling ASPIRE 2.0. Jayne Downey, director of the Center for Research on Rural Education and professor in the Department of Education, is the project’s lead researcher.

The researchers noted that Montana’s rural communities are experiencing severe difficulty recruiting and retaining well-prepared teachers. They pointed to state-level data published last year showing that 661 out of 825 Montana schools have been impacted by a critical shortage of quality educators.

“Building on our previous grant, we will work to reduce the current teacher shortage through increasing the number of well-prepared rural teachers and strengthening mentoring processes for new rural teachers,” they wrote.

ASPIRE 2.0 is divided into three parts: The Rural Teacher Pathways program, the MentorMT program and the Rural Teacher Resource Hub.

Rural Teacher Pathways

The Rural Teacher Pathways program is a sequence of immersive rural school and community clinical experiences for undergraduate students and high school students who are considering careers as teachers. Over the life of the grant, nearly 700 undergraduate and high school students will participate.

First-year MSU prospective teachers can engage in observing and assisting with instruction in one- and two-room K-8 schoolhouses. Second-year students have opportunities to spend several days visiting a rural school and community. Third-year students may participate in a weeklong experience, spending 8 to 10 hours per day in a rural school completing duties typical of full-time teachers. Finally, fourth-year students have the option of completing their 15 weeks of student teaching in a rural community, where they build relationships inside and outside the classroom and learn to embrace the nuances of rural living.

To support students while they are on campus, MSU will offer community-building experiences, rural programming and opportunities for special projects.

“We’re looking to build community within community,” said Joe Hicks, one of the researchers and assistant dean in the College of Education, Health and Human Development.

“We’re looking to introduce students to major support (systems) from day one,” added Marcie Reuer, another researcher and an assistant teaching professor in the Department of Education.

Rural Teacher Pathways will also offer a program for rural high school students who are exploring teaching and other future college and career options that includes an online learning community and an MSU summer camp opportunity.

MentorMT

The second part of ASPIRE 2.0, known as MentorMT, will provide expert, one-on-one mentoring for new and underprepared teachers who are filling positions in rural classrooms. The program is designed especially for teachers who are in their first or second year; on a provisional license; under emergency authorization with limited preparation; teaching outside their licensed grade level or subject area; or teaching on an international visa.

“What we’re seeing in this program is a way to address isolation that really changes the teaching experience for a rural teacher,” said Jennifer Luebeck, one of the researchers and a research professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences in the College of Letters and Science.

Rural Teacher Resource Hub

ASPIRE 2.0 will develop a resource hub for Montana’s rural teachers, containing things like instructional materials and professional development support.

“We’ve noticed that a lot of available materials for teachers are not written with rural in mind; a lot of those materials are very urban-centric,” Downey said. “We have an opportunity here to bring together resources that are meaningful and a good fit for rural teachers and their communities.”

The researchers said they hope that the Rural Teacher Pathways program, Mentor MT program and Rural Teacher Resource Hub lead to significant, lasting changes in rural education in Montana.

Downey added that she hopes the work leads to more people choosing a rural educator path.

“We want them to see this as not just a job, but as something more,” she said. “Rural educators also become community members and contributors to these important rural places that people call home.”

Introduction to the CompTIA SY0-701 Exam and Its Role in IT Security
In an era where cyber threats constantly evolve, IT professionals must keep pace with the latest security skills and knowledge. The CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 exam is a vital step for those looking to future-proof their career in IT security. This article explores the significance of the SY0-701 exam in building a robust and future-ready career in cybersecurity.

 
Understanding the CompTIA SY0-701 Security+ Certification

The CompTIA SY0-701 Security+ certification assesses and validates the fundamental skills necessary to secure a network and manage risk. It covers critical security concepts, best practices, and the latest trends in cybersecurity, making it an essential credential for IT professionals.
 
The Evolving Landscape of Cybersecurity and the SY0-701's Relevance

Cybersecurity is rapidly evolving, with new threats and technologies emerging regularly. The SY0-701 exam ensures that IT professionals are equipped with current knowledge, including an understanding of new threats, technologies, and regulations in the cybersecurity domain.
 

Career Advancements with the CompTIA SY0-701 Certification

Obtaining the SY0-701 certification can significantly advance an IT professional's career. It opens up opportunities in various cybersecurity roles, such as Security Analyst, Security Specialist, and Network Administrator, and enhances one's professional credibility in the IT security industry.
 
Key Topics Covered in the CompTIA SY0-701 Exam

The SY0-701 exam covers various topics, including the latest security technologies and tools, risk management, and incident response. It focuses on practical skills and problem-solving abilities, ensuring candidates can handle real-world security challenges.
 
Preparing for the CompTIA SY0-701 Exam

Preparing for the SY0-701 exam involves theoretical study and practical experience. Utilizing official CompTIA study materials, engaging in experimental labs, and taking practice exams are effective strategies for comprehensively understanding the exam content.
 
The Practical Application of SY0-701 Skills in the Workplace

The skills and knowledge gained from the SY0-701 exam are directly applicable in the workplace. Certified professionals can effectively manage and mitigate security risks and implement robust security measures, making them valuable assets in any IT department.
 
Continuous Learning and Advancement with the SY0-701 Certification

The SY0-701 certification is not just an end goal but a stepping stone for continuous learning in IT security. It provides a solid foundation for further specialization and advancement in cybersecurity, encouraging professionals to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies.
 

 
Global Recognition and Opportunities with the SY0-701 Certification

The global recognition of the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 certification opens up international career opportunities. It is acknowledged as a benchmark for IT security expertise, enhancing the professional credibility of IT practitioners worldwide.
 
Embracing the Future with the CompTIA SY0-701 Security+
In conclusion, the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 certification is a crucial step for IT professionals aspiring to excel in cybersecurity. Covering the latest security technologies and practices prepares candidates for the future challenges of IT security, ensuring they remain at the forefront of this critical and dynamic industry. As cybersecurity continues to be a vital aspect of IT, the SY0-701 certification is a crucial qualification for those seeking to navigate and succeed in this evolving field.

How old is your business sign? Have you looked at it recently? Not just a passing glance driving into the parking lot but really giving your business sign a good inspection.

Even though businesses like the Denver Sign Company always deliver long-lasting and quality signage, nothing lasts forever, which includes your business sign. So, how do you know when it’s time to get rid of an old sign? Sometimes it’s obvious.

However, there are times when you may be waffling about spending the money, but this can be a costly mistake if your signage isn’t effective. Here are a few reasons why it’s time to invest in new signage.

No One Can See Your Sign
Whether it’s overgrowth from nearby trees and bushes or recent development is in the way, if your business sign isn’t visible, it’s not doing its job. Basically, you have a sign that only the local wildlife is paying attention to. Since your customer base probably isn’t comprised of squirrels and other wildlife, your sign is now a waste of money.

Cutting back the overgrowth isn’t always an option. There are regulations, typically set down by the city or county, that dictate who can cut what and when. The last thing you need is a ticket for cutting back growth designated for wildlife. Yep, it’s a thing, usually part of a city-supported green project.

So, what’s the solution? Chances are, it’s time to start budgeting for a larger sign or at least moving your current signage. However, not all types of signs are movable. For example, a heavy concrete monument sign. You’ll probably save some dough replacing the sign instead of trying to move it to another, more visible location.

Your signage may also be tough to see if it’s too small. Yes, smaller is often cheaper, but this doesn’t mean it’s better—you may actually be losing business if your sign is too small. Remember, your business sign needs to be large enough for drivers to easily see. A good rule to follow is to stand about 25 feet or so back from your sign.

If you can’t easily read the information, your sign is probably too small. Sometimes, it pays to spend more rather than less, especially when it comes to advertising your business.

Your Sign’s Out of Style
Yep, business signs can go out of style just like shoes and clothing. Why is this a big deal? Well, your business sign gives consumers their first impression of your company. If your sign’s style is outdated, consumers will also presume so is your business.

Even if you’re a resale or antique store, you want your sign to look fresh, new, and in style. Not sure what the latest sign fashion is? Take a short drive around and check out the styles other businesses are using for their signage.

A great way to let consumers know you’re business is staying on top of current trends is by using digital signage. Digital signs aren’t only for use inside. You can have a digital display on almost any type of outdoor signage.

The LED display is also energy-efficient and lets consumers know you’re taking steps to reduce your carbon footprint. Best of all, you can constantly update the sign’s message without replacing the entire structure.

The Sign’s Age is Showing
You can expect your sign to last for years, if not decades, depending on the material you choose to use. However, even brick and concrete eventually start showing their age. Weather can take a toll on your signage, along with local wildlife. Even cars zooming past kicking up dirt and gravel can pockmark and damage your sign.

Remember how your sign gives consumers their first impressions of your business? Do you really want them to think the inside of your business is in the same state of disrepair as your signage? This isn’t an effective way to drive traffic to your door—instead, you’re actually effectively driving potential consumers away.

When you can’t scrub or paint the damage away, it’s time to replace your signage; this is also a great opportunity to start thinking about adding a fresh, new message.

Your Sign is Illegal
Yep, you can get a ticket for an illegal sign. So, what makes a business sign illegal? This depends on local ordinances and can include anything from size to the brightness of the display. Before paying for a business sign, it’s always a good idea to make sure your sign isn’t illegal first.

When a private house has already been built, all that remains is to improve the territory itself. We will give you ideas on how to improve the yard of a private house and decorate your suburban area in an interesting, beautiful, and cost-effective way. Let's figure out what can make your site look beautiful and modern.

Choose high-quality and up-to-date furniture
Start by deciding where you plan to have lunch and place a table and chairs there. You should choose quality outdoor chairs that will last. Many people prefer to order furniture from hot countries, such as the UAE, because they make furniture that is famous for its resistance to high outdoor temperatures. With such furniture, you will not worry about the chairs being in the sun and something might happen to them.
 
Popular styles are Art Nouveau and Provence. In the first case, you can consider materials like metal and plastic, and in the second it is better to turn to wood or rattan, which has been incredibly popular lately.
 
When choosing an outdoor dining table, it is important to understand how often you invite guests to an outdoor barbecue. If your parties are usually indoors and you don't eat outside, then it's better to choose a smaller table. If you are a fan of outdoor dining, then it is better to choose a spacious table. The ideal option would be a transformable table, which can turn from a small family table into a large table for a cheerful company.

Create a beautiful yard using flower arrangements
Flowers are one of the easiest ways to add bright colors to your yard and at the same time coziness. Anyone can plant flowers and make a bright composition out of them, but to do something more original, you need to use your imagination.
 
A flower motorcycle or bicycle will look very unusual. You can easily make such a flowerbed:

 
It is a great idea to decorate your home with climbing flowers. To do this, you can use both the simplest, unpretentious plants, for example, grapes, and more noble flowers - climbing roses or clematis. These plants can create a real paradise in a suburban area.
 
Remember that even unnecessary old shoes can become an original decoration for the site. Take a pair of bright children's rubber boots, make holes in the sole, add drainage, then soil and plant flowers. These will make excellent garden pots for outdoor flowers. And it’s especially nice that we decorate the yard with our own hands at no extra cost.

Install a waterfall, fountain, or pool
Splashes of water from the fountain will protect plants from dryness, and the pool will become a real salvation from the sun's rays. Children who love to splash in the water will be especially happy with it.
 
It’s very easy to make this beauty your own. Surely after construction, many will find pieces of tiles, tiles, and stones. Riverstones will look more realistic.
 
A fountain installed in the depths of the garden will look very harmonious. You can also put benches and swings for children there. This way the garden will turn into a real park where the whole family can relax and the arrangement of the yard will be complete.
 
Install a gazebo near your house
Gazebos can be different - open, closed, attached to the house. These can be awnings marquees, or tents. The most practical gazebos are made of polycarbonate. If you want to add a little romance, then it is better to choose tents with fluttering fabrics and a lot of beautiful country furniture. And lovers of the classics can choose a wooden gazebo where you can install wooden furniture, for example, an outdoor dining table.
 
These are general principles for decorating an area near your home, but you can also show your imagination and create something incredibly original and beautiful.
 

BOZEMAN — Montana State University will celebrate its first-ever World Quantum Day in the weeks surrounding April 14 by supplying Montana middle and high school teachers with free kits and downloadable resources to help students at their schools learn about quantum science.

World Quantum Day is an annual event to promote public awareness and understanding of quantum science and technology, which have become a focus of MSU’s growing research.

Recently funded projects include the Applied Quantum CORE supported by the Air Force Research Lab, which will house equipment to test prototype quantum components in the extremely cold environments in which they operate, and a planning grant from the National Science Foundation’s Engines program for Montana to collaborate with Idaho and Wyoming to study key gaps in the national quantum supply chain.

Related projects at MSU include the MonArk Quantum Foundry, a collaboration between MSU and the University of Arkansas; Spectrum Lab, which bridges MSU’s research with Montana businesses; the Optical and Quantum System Program in the Department of Physics; and the Montana Nanotechnology Facility, or MONT.

Quantum mechanics is the science of atoms and particles – the tiny building blocks of the universe, according to the U.S. National Quantum Initiative. “Using quantum mechanics, scientist and engineers have created revolutionary technologies that impact our everyday lives,” the website states, listing as examples lasers, LED monitors, the inner workings of smartphones, MRI scanners in hospitals and the GPS system.

MSU’s Science Math Resource Center, which leads education and workforce development for Applied Quantum CORE, is curating World Quantum Day resources for teachers and will give away 25 kits for middle and high school teachers who wish to celebrate World Quantum Day with their students. No previous quantum experience or knowledge is required, as QCORE will provide an online professional development workshop that includes a short overview of quantum science, MSU’s research in the emerging field and how to use the kit’s resources. All activities will also be posted freely online. Teachers are encouraged to think about how they can share the resources with students who have been historically excluded from science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, fields.

Similar to Pi Day, which is celebrated on March 14, aka 3/14, in reference to the first digits of that number, World Quantum Day is celebrated on April 14 in reference to Planck’s constant, a number relevant to quantum physics.

To learn more about World Quantum Day at MSU or to apply for an educators’ kit, visit montana.edu/smrc/quantum. The deadline to apply for an educators’ kit is March 16. For more on World Quantum Day, visit worldquantumday.org.

HELENA – The new license year opens March 1, which means that is the day you can buy your 2024 hunting, fishing and conservation licenses and begin applying for permits and special licenses. The deadline to apply for deer and elk permits is April 1.  

Applications for most species – deer, elk, antelope, deer B licenses, elk B licenses, antelope B licenses, moose, sheep, goat, bison, bear, turkey – can be made beginning March 1. 

A new online feature this year is the option for applicants to reapply for the same offerings as last year with just a simple click, eliminating the need to search through previous applications.

Hunters and anglers can buy licenses and apply for permits on the FWP website beginning at 5 a.m. on March 1; click on “Buy and Apply.” Most FWP offices will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.  

Click here to watch a video tutorial for Montana residents on how to buy and apply for licenses and permits online. Click here to watch a video tutorial for nonresidents on how to buy and apply for licenses and permits online.   

The licensing call center will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from March 1 through April 1; after April 1, the hours will return to 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The call center can be reached at 406-444-2950. 

This year FWP produced clearer information for hunters on bonus points and how they are used. Remember: 

• A bonus point is an extra chance for a hunter to draw a license or permit in a Montana drawing.  

• Preference points are used only for drawing Nonresident Combination Licenses. Preference points move you ahead in line for the drawing. If you are a Montana resident, preference points don’t apply to you.  

• For more information on bonus points, preference points and other important licensing topics, go to fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/hunting-licenses. 

Hunters and anglers can also take advantage of the MyFWP mobile app. The app holds and displays licenses, permits and E-Tags, which can be downloaded and used in the field without cell service. To create a My FWP account, visit the MyFWP login page.  

Tips and reminders 

• Don’t wait until the last day to apply. 

• If you’re applying for a special license or permit, you will need to have a valid email address.

• Make sure to doublecheck the regulations before applying. Some permit/licenses have changed. 

• The Online Licensing System is available from 5 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. 

• Everyone 12 and older needs a Conservation License to access most state lands, including fishing access sites, wildlife management areas and wildlife habitat protection areas (WHPA). Montana State Parks do not require a Conservation License.  

• A separate and rotating moose, bighorn sheep or mountain goat SuperTag lottery for resident hunters will be conducted annually. Montana residents will receive one free chance in the lottery for every General Elk or General Deer License purchased. 

Application deadlines  

• Smith River Super Permit – March 22 

• Paddlefish (white tag) – March 22  

• Deer and Elk

  • Special Permits – April 1

  • Special Licenses – June 1  

• Bighorn Sheep – May 1  

• Bison – May 1  

• Moose – May 1  

• Mountain Goat –May 1  

• Antelope – June 1  

• SuperTags

  • Antelope, Bighorn Sheep, Bison, Deer, Elk, Moose, Mountain Goat, and Mountain Lion –July 1  

• Mountain Lion Special Licenses – July 22  

For more information on Montana hunting licenses and permits, go to fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/hunting-licenses.