TWIN BRIDGES – A chronic wasting disease (CWD) management hunt will be held for all white-tailed deer and antlerless mule deer in a portion of Hunting District 322 in the lower Ruby Valley.

The hunt will run from Dec. 15 through Feb. 15. Valid licenses, which will be available for purchase during the hunt, will include:

• General deer license: valid for antlerless mule deer or either sex white-tailed deer
• 003-00 white-tailed deer B license: valid for either sex white-tailed deer
• 399-00 white-tailed deer B license: valid for either sex white-tailed deer

The area of the hunt is known to have a high prevalence of CWD. The goals of the management hunt are to reduce the white-tailed deer population and to increase the CWD test sample size from a localized herd of mule deer to improve the accuracy of prevalence estimates.

CWD is a fatal, contagious neurological disease that infects deer, elk and moose. CWD surveillance across southwest Montana over the past three years, including broad CWD management hunts, continues to illustrate a localized area of high prevalence among deer in the lower Ruby Valley, surrounded by an area of low prevalence.

So far this season, CWD has been found in 71 percent of white-tailed does, 73 percent of white-tailed bucks and five of 10 adult mule deer harvested within the management hunt area.

The management hunt area includes almost exclusively private lands south of Twin Bridges along the Beaverhead and Ruby rivers. A map of the hunt area can be downloaded here: Southwest Montana CWD Hunt Area 2023-24.

As always, landowner permission is required before hunting on private lands. The relatively small hunt area will limit the number of hunters who can participate. All other 2023 hunting regulations apply, including regulations on carcass disposal. Information on proper carcass disposal can be found online at fwp.mt.gov/CWD.

Due to high CWD prevalence in this area, FWP recommends that hunters have their harvested animals tested. Some participating ranches will require testing as a condition of hunting. FWP pays for the testing, making it free for hunters. FWP has provided resources to help hunters collect and submit samples for testing on their own. These resources can be found online at fwp.mt.gov/CWD. Hunters can also call a regional FWP office to schedule an appointment if they need help collecting a CWD sample.

CWD was first detected in Montana’s wild cervids in 2017. It has since been detected widely along Montana’s northern and southern borders. CWD was first detected among white-tailed deer in the Ruby Valley in 2019 and is now known to occur in the Ruby, Beaverhead, Big Hole and Jefferson watersheds.

CWD is not known to infect humans. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people not eat meat from infected animals and have their harvested animals tested before eating them if they were taken from an area where CWD is known to exist. For more information on CDC recommendations, please visit go.usa.gov/xAcnc.

BOZEMAN – Montana manufacturing continues to be one-fifth of the state’s total economic base, according to a new report released by the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center at Montana State University.

The 2023 Montana Manufacturing Report provides a wide variety of data about manufacturing, shows the results of surveys given to manufacturers and displays how MMEC’s services provided help the industry. The Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana conducts the annual economic analysis and develops the report. This report marks the 27th year of collaboration between MMEC and BBER.

The report covers the year 2022. According to the report:

• Manufacturing makes up 21% of Montana’s economic base.
• Careers in manufacturing pay about $57,180 in earnings, which is above the state average.
• Manufacturing employs more than 22,500 employees
• Manufacturing accounted for 5.5% of total state earnings at $1.95 billion.
• Manufacturing made up 6.6% of the gross state product at $3.3 billion.

“This year’s report confirms that manufacturing is a robust sector within the Montana economy,” said MMEC Director Paddy Fleming. “We continue to see strong increases in employment and earnings for Montana workers. Moreover, manufacturers are optimistic about starting new businesses here, with the total number of manufacturing firms growing to more than 4,400. In particular, there is large growth among companies that produce food and beverages, transportation equipment and advanced technologies such as photonics.”

The MMEC is part of MSU’s Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering and provides services to manufacturing companies across the state to help improve business operations through in-person specialist assistance.

MMEC’s current manufacturing report and those from previous years can be found at montana.edu/mmec/news/reports.

On 12/12/2023 at 11:31 pm, Gallatin County Dispatch received a 911 call from two individuals who had gotten their vehicle stuck while recreating near the Sourdough Trail. The individuals were not dressed for the cold weather conditions and requested Search and Rescue respond to pick them up.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue (GCSAR) volunteers from the Valley section responded. Volunteers utilized off-road vehicles to travel up the trail where the individuals were located. GCSAR volunteers evaluated the individuals on scene and provided them a ride back to the trail head.

Sheriff Springer would like to remind backcountry enthusiasts that not all trails in the county are permitted to be used by motorized vehicles and to read posted signage at all trail heads to ensure our trails can be legally enjoyed by all. Those trails which are permitted for motorized used should only be used by those with experience and proper equipment, especially given cold weather and icy road conditions. If you have any questions regarding trail usage in Gallatin County, please reach out to the National Forest Service or the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.

HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on a couple of environmental assessments (EAs. For more information, including how to submit comments, click on the link provided or visit fwp.mt.gov/public-notices.

Stanley Pond Fish Stocking Environmental Assessment Checklist

FWP is proposing stocking fish in the Stanley Pond, a private pond at Volborg in Custer County. Public access to fishing in eastern Montana is limited and private ponds stocked by FWP through our regional ponds program increases public fishing opportunity. Due to the abundance of interest in fishing, and the current lack of public access, recreational opportunities are cherished.

Comments due Dec. 15.

Flying T Ranch Private Pond EA

A private landowner is applying for a Private Fish Pond License and proposes to stock trout in an new unnamed 0.8 acre private pond fed by groundwater wells near the town of White Sulphur Springs.

Comments due Dec. 23.

Please join First Interstate Bank and the Bozeman Schools Foundation in making the coming year a little easier for Bozeman families by helping them erase 2023 student lunch debt. 

Account debt has reached an all-time high in Bozeman and First Interstate Bank has stepped forward to help retire this debt before year-end. Their generous gift of $4000 will cover over 20% of the existing deficit. 

Bozeman Schools Foundation is asking other businesses to join First Interstate Bank in this effort by making a gift to the Bozeman Schools Foundation’s dedicated fund for Hungry & Homeless Students.
 
Funds raised will be used to pay off the 2023 student lunch debt at all BSD7 schools. Any additional funds raised will provide for basic and emergency student needs as identified.

Help Make 2024 Brighter for Students in Need! Donate Today

Atlanta, GA – Manhattan, Montana resident Mark Longie performed the National Anthem December 10, 2023 at the Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA.

“This was the gig of a lifetime,” said Western Skies front man Mark Longie. “I’ve been playing at Mountain Sky for twenty-three years and have gotten to know Mr. Blank well.  He was kind enough to submit me for the Anthem, and I found out I was selected this summer. Being able to represent the West and perform at an NFL game was nothing short of a dream come true.”

Longie is the featured performer at Mountain Sky Guest Ranch located in Paradise Valley, Montana with his band Western Skies. He has been a constant fixture at Mountain Sky for over twenty years, where his weekly performances are a favorite of ranch guests including ranch owner, Arthur M. Blank.

Mr. Blank, owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, suggested Longie to the Falcons anthem selection committee for consideration. After submitting a demo to the committee, Longie was chosen to perform at the Dec. 10 game. Blank personally broke the news of his selection to Longie at Mountain Sky Guest Ranch in July of this year.

Longie, a long-time Atlanta Falcons fan, made the trip to Atlanta with his family on Friday ahead of his Dec. 10 performance. Current Falcons and former Montana State University player Troy Andersen stopped by to say hello, along with Mr. Blank and Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith.

BOZEMAN — Montana State University President Waded Cruzado announced today that she has awarded the MSU Presidential Medallion for Achievement to a faculty member in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the university, her students and her respective field.

The honored professor is Elizabeth Shanahan, professor in the MSU Department of Political Science in the College of Letters and Science and MSU’s associate vice president for research development.

The award recognizes faculty members who have demonstrated scholarship of an international caliber, an exemplary commitment to teaching and mentoring, and leadership in service at MSU, around the state and beyond.

“Montana State University is honored to recognize professor Shanahan for her impressive achievements,” said MSU President Waded Cruzado. “She has made truly extraordinary contributions to her field of study and demonstrates a deep commitment to her students and to this university.”

“I have immense gratitude to be awarded MSU’s Presidential Medallion for Academic Achievement,” Shanahan said. “This recognition reflects the tapestry of people in my life—MSU students and colleagues, my mentors, my family—all who have guided, challenged and supported me on this amazing journey. In tandem, I also feel a great sense of responsibility and inspiration to continue the work embodied by this medallion—to contribute to MSU as an institution, engage with MSU students and bring my expertise to questions commissioned by our U.S. Congress through the National Academy of Public Administration.”

Shanahan, who came to MSU in 2005, is an expert in narrative risk communication and is co-architect of the Narrative Policy Framework, which she has spent her career developing and testing. The framework focuses on policymaking and the power that narrative and stories have to gain public attention, to motivate behavior and to shape policy outcomes. The Narrative Policy Framework is now used internationally, having “made a pretty big splash in the policy world” when it was introduced, Shanahan said.

Earlier this year, Shanahan was named a fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA). Founded in 1967, the Academy was chartered by Congress to provide independent, nonpartisan and neutral advice to government leaders and agencies at all levels of government, similar to the National Academy of Sciences. NAPA fellows are chosen by the membership based on their distinguished and continuing achievements in and contributions to public administration and public policy.

Shanahan said that, typically, technical approaches are proposed to deal with risk and hazards. In her work, she brings the social sciences into the mix to understand community perspectives about risks like flooding and works with these communities to develop and adopt risk reduction policies and behaviors.

“People need to see policy as relevant to their lives, and scientific information communicated in narrative form can help,” she said.

She added that she believes her expertise in narrative risk communication is a primary reason she was selected as a NAPA fellow, as it positions her to help governments — especially those in the western U.S. — prepare for and respond to natural hazards like fires and floods, the spread of infectious disease, and cybersecurity threats.

Mere weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S., an interdisciplinary MSU research team led by Shanahan published a paper on its research showing that delivering public information about potential hazards through narrative is significantly more effective at engaging people in risk reduction behaviors than science statements alone. During the pandemic, Shanahan led a group of social scientists on COVID-19 vaccine narrative communication, publishing on the use of visual narratives to increase vaccine uptake. During that time, her team made risk communication recommendations to the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space and Technology.

Shanahan continues to research effective ways to communicate evidence-based information for a range of disasters (such as natural hazards, cyberattacks) while ensuring that the persuasive power of narrative isn’t misused.

Shanahan has a doctorate in political science and two master’s degrees, all from Idaho State University. She also has a bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College.

Shanahan is the fifth recipient of the MSU Presidential Medallion for Achievement and the first social scientist; last year, MSU awarded the medallion to Alexandra Adams, Peter Buerhaus, Joan Broderick and Dana Longcope.

Traveling with your beloved canine companion can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be a bit challenging. Just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety and stress during travel. Whether you're embarking on a road trip or taking a flight, it's essential to ensure that your four-legged friend has a comfortable and stress-free journey. This article will provide you with some valuable tips to make traveling with your furry friend a breeze, and it will explore the use of hemp for dogs products like oils to help reduce travel-related anxiety in dogs.


Choose the Right Mode of Transportation

The first step in planning a stress-free journey with your dog is to select the most suitable mode of transportation. Consider your dog's size, breed, and temperament when making this decision. If you're traveling by car, make sure your dog is safely secured with a seatbelt or in a well-ventilated crate. For air travel, research airlines that are pet-friendly and ensure your dog's carrier meets the airline's requirements.

Plan Ahead and Pack Wisely

Before you hit the road or board a plane, make a checklist of essential items for your dog. This includes food, water, medications, poop bags, a leash, and your dog's favorite toys or comfort items. Also, don't forget to pack a first-aid kit for your pet, just in case.

Visit the Vet Before Travel

Schedule a visit to your veterinarian before embarking on your journey. Ensure that your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and has a clean bill of health for travel. Ask your vet for advice on managing your dog's anxiety during the trip, and inquire about any medications or supplements that may be beneficial.

Introduce Your Dog to the Travel Environment

If your dog is not used to traveling, it's crucial to gradually introduce them to the travel environment. Start with short trips to get your dog accustomed to the car or carrier. Reward them with treats and praise to create positive associations with the experience.

Reduce Anxiety with Hemp-Based Pet Products

One effective way to reduce travel-related anxiety is by using hemp for dogs. These products are derived from hemp plants and contain compounds like CBD (cannabidiol) that can have a calming effect on dogs without causing any psychoactive effects.

CBD oil is a popular hemp-based product known for its potential to reduce anxiety in dogs. It can be administered orally or added to your dog's food. CBD oil interacts with the endocannabinoid system in your dog's body, which plays a role in regulating stress and anxiety. It may help your dog feel more relaxed and comfortable during the journey.

Stay Calm and Relaxed

Dogs are excellent at picking up on their owners' emotions. If you're stressed or anxious, your dog is more likely to feel the same way. Stay calm and relaxed throughout the journey, and your dog will likely follow suit. Keep your voice soothing and offer gentle reassurance to your furry friend.

Take Breaks and Stretch

During a long road trip, it's essential to take regular breaks to let your dog stretch their legs, relieve themselves, and have a drink of water. This not only ensures your dog's physical comfort but also helps reduce stress and restlessness.

Choose Pet-Friendly Accommodations

If you're staying overnight at a hotel or vacation rental, make sure to choose pet-friendly accommodations. Research in advance to find places that welcome dogs and provide amenities like pet beds or designated areas for exercise.

Plan Dog-Friendly Activities

Incorporate dog-friendly activities into your travel itinerary. Research parks, hiking trails, or beaches where you can spend quality time with your dog. Exercise and mental stimulation will help keep your furry friend happy and relaxed.

Bed Prepared for Emergencies

While no one wants to think about emergencies, it's crucial to be prepared. Carry a copy of your dog's medical records and contact information for local veterinarians along your route. Knowing where to go in case of an emergency can provide peace of mind.

Enjoy the Journey Together

Traveling with your furry friend can be an enriching experience for both of you. Embrace the adventure, create lasting memories, and cherish the bond you share with your loyal companion. Remember that with proper planning and the use of hemp-based pet products like oils, you can help ensure a stress-free journey for your beloved dog.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, traveling with your dog can be a rewarding experience with a little preparation and the right approach. By choosing the right mode of transportation, planning ahead, and introducing your dog to the travel environment gradually, you can set the stage for a stress-free journey. Additionally, consider the use of hemp-based pet products like CBD oil to help alleviate travel-related anxiety in your furry friend. With these tips in mind, you and your dog can enjoy many adventures together, creating cherished memories along the way.

Each area has different ways to regulate the crypto industry. El Salvador is a pioneer in legalizing virtual currency as legal tender on par with the US dollar. That is, Bitcoin and the dollar have the same payment power. It suggests that cryptocurrency activities are actively supported at the state level, which contributes to the development of firms provided that they have received an El Salvador crypto license.

How does a permit help organizations develop?

Organizations can actively develop their business through the following positive aspects by obtaining permission for crypto activities.

Pioneer experience

Since it is the first state to introduce a legal framework for digital coins as legal tender, this allows firms to be the first participants in the crypto market in this category.

Taxation allows you to have more profit

If a firm engages in crypto activities, then preferential taxation is applied. That is, income from virtual assets will not be taxed. In addition, capital gains that were received from trading digital coins will also not be taxed. Also, companies engaged in issuing securities and registered as providers of virtual assets will be able to take advantage of the same tax benefits:

• no income tax;
• no tax on the transfer of goods and services provided;
• no municipal taxes.

In addition, companies will be relieved of liability for paying these taxes if such an obligation arises.

Providing access to the virtual asset market

The licensing and acceptance of Bitcoin as legal tender provide an attractive environment for the digital asset market. These aspects allow you to attract potential solid partners. With such a permit, the firm can quickly gain access to the digital coin market and offer its services.

Free orientation in legislation

Since licensed firms operate within the framework of transparent legislation, this will make it easy to navigate the cryptocurrency business and develop effectively. With a permit, the firm guarantees that all legal requirements will be met, including AML and KYC policies. Such compliance will significantly increase the trust of potential partners.

Attracting international partners

Since El Salvador has decided to legalize digital coins and create a regulatory framework, this will attract companies from around the world looking to expand their business. With permission for cryptocurrency activities, firms can enter the asset market and acquire strong business partners.

Government support

Since the authorities have decided to legalize digital coins, they will be interested in developing and promoting the cryptocurrency business. Firms will be able to apply government initiatives to develop this area. Also, the use of blockchain technology is of great importance, which will ensure the reliability and confidentiality of transactions. Government support can lead to joint partnerships on research solutions that will enable more efficient financial activities.

All these aspects will have a very favorable effect on financial activities, helping to attract international partners and increase capital.

Tax policy

If a company is registered with the Registry as a virtual asset provider, it will be able to take advantage of many tax benefits:

• the absence of all types of duties, taxes, and fees, including the assessment of the nominal value and profitability of virtual coins;
• there will be no tax on capital gains and ordinary income that was received in the process of trading or transferring virtual assets;
• there is no tax on the transfer of goods and services and other tax obligations of the asset provider.

In addition, organizations included in the Register will be exempt from taxation liability in cases where this can be applied. Such tax benefits will allow your business to develop effectively and profit more than other jurisdictions.

Conclusion

El Salvador is among the most promising and favorable jurisdictions for obtaining permits. Strong government support and attractive taxation will contribute to active business expansion. Innovative infrastructure and distributed registry technology will allow you to conduct business safely, ensuring the high trust of partners and clients.