HELENA – The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission will move the review of  proposed 2024-2025 black bear hunting regulations to its February meeting and add a final decision on the wolf administrative rule amendments to its meeting Dec. 14.

The change provides additional time for FWP to assess potential commission amendments to the FWP’s proposed black bear regulations, which have included statewide changes. The public comment period deadlines for the proposed black bear regulations and commission amendments will remain unchanged. Comments already submitted will be reviewed by commissioners prior to the February meeting, which is tentatively scheduled for Feb. 16.

During the December meeting, the commission will take final action on proposed amendments to the current Administrative Rule of Montana (ARM) dealing with wolf management. The public comment process followed for these proposed ARM changes is outlined in statute. A public hearing to hear comments was held Nov. 3. Comments were received through Nov. 6. Comment at the commission meeting will be limited to whether the commission should or should not adopt the rule amendments as final.

For a full agenda, background on the scheduled topics and public comments, go to the Fish and Wildlife Commission page on the FWP website.

FWP’s website offers live-streamed audio of each Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting.

BOZEMAN – Hunter success in southwestern Montana continued to trend mostly at or below average during the latter half of the general deer and elk hunting season, according to data gathered by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks biologists.

Mild weather during much of the general season made it challenging for hunters to find game at lower elevations.

The general season lasted from Oct. 21 through Nov. 26. During that time, FWP staff operated game check stations at various times and locations in southwest Montana, including stations in Alder, Cameron, Canyon Ferry, Divide, Gallatin Canyon, Lakeside, Mill Creek and Townsend. Collectively, they met with 6,112 hunters who harvested 66 white-tailed deer, 152 mule deer and 310 elk, among other species.

Biologists use check stations to collect data on hunter participation and success, as well as the species, sex and age class of the animals harvested. Check station data supplements information collected through hunter harvest phone surveys each year.

The Alder check station was open on the first, third and sixth weekends of the general season. Wildlife staff there met with 768 hunters who collectively harvested 15 white-tailed deer, 38 mule deer and 40 elk over the three weekends. Hunter success for the final weekend was 18 percent, slightly below the long-term average of 21 percent.

Biologists operated a check station at Canyon Ferry on the final weekend of the general season. They met with 266 hunters, 7.5 percent of whom harvested deer or elk.

The Cameron check station was open each weekend during the general season. Wildlife staff there met with 2,339 hunters who harvested 16 white-tailed deer, 47 mule deer and 180 elk. Hunter success rates were at or near average during the season, except the fifth weekend, which had a success rate of 7.6 percent that tied with the lowest on record for that weekend. Hunter success climbed to 18.3 percent on the sixth and final weekend, compared with a long-term average of 15 percent.  

The Divide check station was also open each weekend during the general season. Biologists there met with 1,357 hunters, who harvested 15 white-tailed deer, 40 mule deer and 48 elk. Mild weather made it especially challenging for hunters to harvest game in this area. The general season ended with a success rate of 6.1 percent on the final weekend, compared with a long-term average of 11.8 percent.

The Gallatin check station operated during the first, fourth and sixth weekends of the general season. Wildlife staff there met with 345 hunters who harvested six mule deer and 13 elk. Hunter success over the final weekend was 7.6 percent, compared with a long-term average of 9.9 percent.

The Mill Creek check station was open over the first, third and final weekends of the season. Wildlife staff met with 693 hunters who harvested two white-tailed deer, 3 mule deer and 18 elk. On the final weekend, 2.2 percent of hunters were successful, compared with a long-term average of 6.7 percent.

Check stations were also run in Lakeside and Townsend during the first weekend of the general season. Between these two stations, wildlife staff met with 344 hunters who harvested 11 white-tailed deer, five mule deer and eight elk.

On 11/28/2023 at 5:16 pm, 911 dispatch received a call from a recreationalist near Hyalite Canyon Road stating an elderly hiker had not returned to their vehicle after leaving earlier in the afternoon to cut a Christmas Tree. Due to cold weather conditions and darkness setting in, Search and Rescue was requested.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue (GCSAR) volunteers from the Valley section as well as an Ambulance from American Medical Response responded. GCSAR members deployed off-road vehicles, drones, and dog teams to locate the hiker. Fortunately, the hiker was eventually located by GCSAR members approximately three miles from where they had last been seen. The hiker was then transported to the waiting AMR ambulance for a medical evaluation.

Sheriff Springer would like to remind recreational enthusiasts to always have a backup plan when recreating. Being dressed for changing weather conditions and having adequate supplies is good practice for ensuring a safe trip. Also, cellular service is still spotty at best in much of Gallatin County’s backcountry. Having a communication plan that does not depend on cell service is always recommended.

HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on several environmental assessments (EAs) and changes to Administrative Rules of Montana. For more information, including how to submit comments, click on the links provided or visit fwp.mt.gov/public-notices.  

Missouri Headwaters State Park Proposed Land Acquisition Environmental Assessment 

The purpose of this project is to facilitate acquisition of the 30-acre Hart property in fee title by FWP for permanent inclusion into Missouri Headwaters State Park, near Three Forks.  

Written comments due Nov. 30. 

Crystal Lake Burbot Introduction Draft Environmental Assessment Checklist 

FWP is proposing to stock burbot into Crystal Lake. Crystal Lake is part of the Thompson Chain of Lakes south of Highway 2 near Happy’s Inn. The proposed action is being considered to provide angling opportunity, reduce density of illegally introduced yellow perch thus reducing competition with kokanee, and improve individual growth rates of existing game fish populations.  

Written comments due Nov. 30. 

Redwater Fishing Access Site Development Checklist Draft EA 

FWP has been granted a 30-year right-of-way by the Bureau of Land Management to construct a Fishing Access Site at the confluence of the Redwater River and Missouri River. The site is located 18 miles east of Wolf Point, in McCone County, on public land managed by the BLM. The proposed FAS construction would include a parking area, FAS boundary fencing, designated campsites, two latrines, and a boat ramp. Construction of the Redwater FAS would accomplish recreation goals for FWP in accordance with the Montana Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan. 

Written comments due Dec. 1. 

Notice Of Public Hearing on Proposed Amendment and Repeal of Elk Hunting Access Agreements Rules 

In the matter of the amendment of ARM 12.9.901 and 12.9.908 and the repeal of ARM 12.9.902, 12.9.905, and 12.9.911 pertaining to contractual elk hunting access agreements: 

On Dec. 1 at 10 a.m., FWP and the Fish and Wildlife Commission will hold a public hearing via the Zoom meeting platform to consider the proposed amendment and repeal of the above-stated rules.  

Written comments due Dec. 4. 

Notice of Public Hearing on Proposed Amendment and Repeal of Block Management Rules 

In the matter of the amendment of ARM 12.4.203, 12.4.205, 12.4.206, 12.4.207, and 12.4.210 and the repeal of ARM 12.4.204 and 12.4.208 pertaining to the block management program: 

On Dec. 1 at 1 p.m., FWP and the Fish and Wildlife Commission will hold a public hearing via the Zoom meeting platform to consider the proposed amendment and repeal of the above-stated rules.  

Written comments due Dec. 4. 

Truck drivers play a crucial role in the supply chain. Without them, delivering goods to the final destination would be impossible. The trucking industry has always had high demand, but it has drastically increased in the last few years. The shortage of drivers was justified by the large percentage of retiring drivers and the increase in demand in the supply chain due to changes in consumer behavior.

 The high demand on the market opens new opportunities for your truck driver career. The stable salary, travel opportunities, and benefits are why many pursue a career in the trucking industry. In addition, there are many jobs to choose from.

Dry van truck driver

This job position is usually where beginner truck drivers start their careers. Dry van truck drivers operate single large trucks. The vehicle has a semi-trailer that is covered to protect the freight. This type of vehicle has no temperature regulation and can't transport oversized freight. Also, this type of truck isn't used for perishable products or dry cargo. In most cases, the truck driver doesn't need to load and unload. 

Flatbed trucker

The flatbed truck driver is an excellent choice if you're looking for a high-paying trucking job. Due to its nature, this job requires extra skills but guarantees excellent pay. The flatbed trucks are responsible for transporting cargo that doesn't belong in standard sizing. It can be oversized or weirdly shaped, making transporting it with a regular truck impossible.

The flatbed truck drivers need the proper knowledge and skills to secure nonstandard cargo. 

Oversize load truck driver

The oversized load truck driver is responsible for transporting oversized goods such as windmills and construction equipment. Heavy haulers need special certification and training to handle large cargo. As a result, they are at the top of the list of the most-paid trucking jobs. 

Refrigerated freight truck drivers

Some goods, such as food, medicine, and poultry, require specific temperatures during transport. The truck drivers operate a particular refrigerated vehicle and are responsible for maintaining an optimal temperature. The higher responsibility comes with a higher rate, so the refrigerated freight truckers are paid more. 

Ice road truck drivers

Navigating through the icy roads to deliver the freight is very challenging. But this job is gratifying. The truck drivers specialized in ice roads work seasonally. They will drive for three or four months per year. Due to the challenging driving conditions, the pay is way higher. Ice road truckers can earn up to $60,000 during the season. However, some like to get other trucking jobs during the off-season to make money. 

Local and regional truck drivers

Over-the-road or OTR driving is where truck drivers usually start. The regional drivers transport goods within a metropolitan area. At the same time, the local drivers operate within the same city. These jobs are excellent for the ones starting in the trucking industry. But also driving locally and regionally allows drivers to return home every day. 

LTL freight drivers

LTL or less than truckload shipping refers to a transportation method where few shippers share the same truck. The truck transports goods from various companies to different destinations. For the truck driver, this means more drop-off points, loading and unloading cargo. 

Final thoughts

This article sums up the seven best types of trucking jobs. It all depends on your skill level and needs. Regional driving is perfect if you want to be home with your family daily, but being an ice road driver and flatbed trucker has a higher salary. 

BOZEMAN – A new federal reporting requirement aimed at reducing corporate crime will affect some Montana farmers, ranchers and businesses, according to Montana State University Extension.

Beginning on Jan. 1, 2024, certain corporations, limited liability companies and other entities created or registered to do business in the U.S. will be required to report information about their beneficial owners to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, or FinCEN, within the U.S. Treasury Department.

The new reporting requirement stems from the Corporate Transparency Act, passed by Congress in 2021. It is part of the U.S. government’s efforts to make it harder for bad actors to hide ill-gotten gains through shell companies or opaque ownership structures.

A beneficial owner is an individual who has substantial control over or owns at least 25% of a company.

A company created before Jan. 1, 2024, must file an initial report with FinCEN no later than Jan. 1, 2025. A company registered on or after Jan. 1, 2024, must file with FinCEN within 30 days of registration. Companies will have an ongoing obligation to file an updated report with FinCEN to disclose any changes in previously reported information or to any beneficial owner within 30 days of the change.

Montana farmers, ranchers and businesses can file reports with FinCEN electronically. The form to report beneficial ownership information will not be available until Jan. 1, 2024. Information about the form can be found at fincen.gov/boi.

MSU Extension provides links to FinCEN materials that provide information about the new reporting requirements which can be found at montana.edu/estateplanning.

BOZEMAN – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks biologists and experienced houndsmen will be conducting field work this winter in the Gallatin Range south of Bozeman to help estimate the number and density of mountain lions in the area.

The research is scheduled to begin in early December and last through mid-April as part of a statewide effort to monitor and manage Montana’s lion populations.

To collect data, FWP biologists and local houndsmen will use trained dogs to track and tree mountain lions. They’ll use darts to capture small tissue samples to submit for genetic analysis. This will be combined with genetic samples from hunter-harvested lions to help biologists estimate lion numbers. Lions won’t be sedated, collared or tagged during this survey effort.

This research comes from FWP’s mountain lion monitoring and management strategy adopted in 2019, which prescribes using genetic samples to make periodic population estimates of lions in different management ecoregions of the state. FWP is in its fifth year of this population monitoring strategy.

Over time, FWP will be able to use these population estimates, along with more than 25 years of field research data and annual harvest information, to guide lion management decisions. This monitoring program is helping improve Montana’s ability to understand the effects of lion harvest. It is also helping biologists manage and maintain viable lion populations in balance with other wildlife species and various public interests.

For more information, contact FWP field research lead Alissa Anderson at Alissa.Anderson@mt.gov.

On Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, at approximately 3:19 PM, Gallatin County dispatch received a call from a GPS device monitoring service. A device the company monitors had recently been activated near Grotto Falls in Hyalite Canyon. Gallatin County dispatch later received a 911 phone call from an eyewitness stating an ice climber had fallen and was injured. The patient was identified as 36-year-old Montana resident and avid ice climber, Kyle Allen Rott.

Gallatin County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue volunteers along with Two Bear Air and Billings Clinic Med-Flight helicopters responded to the Grotto Falls trailhead. Five teams of search and rescue volunteers were deployed to the area where Rott was located. Search and rescue volunteers provided initial medical treatment to Rott who was eventually hoisted from the area by Two Bear Air and taken to Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office coroners responded to the hospital where Rott was determined to have died accidentally, caused by blunt force trauma of the head, sustained during an ice climbing fall.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to express his condolences to Mr. Kyle Rott’s family in South Dakota and his friends. Sheriff Springer also thanks all the dedicated search and rescue members who responded so quickly.

If you are planning a family vacation, consider touring Montana. It has attractive sceneries and wide-open spaces, making it a perfect destination for outdoor lovers. It is also home to the world’s oldest park, the Yellowstone National Park, which features awe-striking mountain ranges, super volcanoes, waterfalls, geysers, and rivers. Read on for five fun things to do in Montana for an enjoyable and memorable vacation.

Explore Yellowstone National Park

If you are an outdoor lover, you should definitely tour Yellowstone National Park. The park was established in 1872 and is Montana’s most famous attraction. Yellowstone is primarily located in Wyoming and Idaho, and only three percent of the park is in Montana. Schedule a tour of the region to see the national park’s famous attractions, including  Grand Prismatic Spring, Old Faithful, Hayden Valley, Mammoth Hot Springs, the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone Lake, and Lamar Valley.

Be sure to schedule white water rafting trips in Yellowstone for a unique experience in Montana. Other fun activities in Yellowstone National Park include hiking, camping, horseback riding, skiing, kayaking, and fishing.

Hike Glacier National Park

Hiking Glacier National Park is one of the best and fun things to do in Montana. Glacier National Park has more than 700 trails and is known as the hiker’s paradise. As you walk through the trails, you will enjoy the scenic views of serene lakes, glacier-carved valleys, alpine meadows, and pristine forests. You also get to watch wildlife up close in Glacier National Park. Some common animals in the park include grizzly bears, elk, and goats. If you enjoy boating, you could book a boat ride across Lake McDonald.

Go wildlife viewing

If animal viewing is on your travel bucket list, consider touring one of the United States’ oldest wildlife refuges, the National Bison Range. The National Bison Range is located in Moiese and covers approximately 18500 acres. It is home to various wild animals, including white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, black bears, and pronghorn antelope. If you are a birdwatcher, pack up your binoculars to enjoy viewing over 200 bird species, including hawks, geese, meadowlarks, eagles, and bluebirds, to mention a few.

Drive the Hi-Line

Take your family on a road trip by driving the Hi-Line. As you go on your road trip, you will enjoy the incredible views of historic shops and homes, reservoirs, distillers and breweries, volcanic peaks, and beautiful rivers. Be sure to check local towns for accommodation options, especially when planning a long drive.

Soak in Montana’s hot springs

Montana is home to various hot springs. Be sure to enjoy a relaxing soak in one of the hot springs. A perfect option is the Quinns Hot Spring resort located seventy miles northeast of Missoula. While here, you could stay in one of the cabins as you enjoy the region’s exceptional views. Other famous hot springs in Montana include Elkhorn Hot Springs, Bozeman Hot Springs, Chico Hot Springs, and Norris Hot Springs, to mention a few.

Endnote

Montana is a perfect choice if you are looking for a destination with beautiful national parks, stunning vistas, and plenty of outdoor activities. Add the above fun activities to your itinerary for an unforgettable vacation.