Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT) is best known for the Main Street to the Mountains trail system, but the definition of trail is expanding. GVLT and partners have launched the area’s first water trail, the Missouri River Headwaters Paddlers’ Trail.

The trailhead (or “put in” as it’s better known in the paddler world) is located at the Missouri River Boat Launch in Headwater’s State Park. The trail takes floaters past the Fairweather Fishing Access Site and ends at the Toston Dam “take-out”. Paddlers can choose to continue for a more strenuous adventure or start at Fairweather Fishing Access for a less challenging route with a shorter time commitment.

The National American Trails organization recently published an article praising water trails. “Water trails connect us to nature and history in a way that other trails cannot. Many American towns and cities are built at the edge of water bodies, so taking to the water is a way to explore areas from a different perspective, close to home. Water trails can allow access to wild places that may be almost unreachable otherwise. Water trails are fun and inclusive.”

The creation of the trail was inspired by GVLT’s mission to connect people to the lands, and rivers, in beautiful southwest Montana. Water trails are especially aligned with GVLT’s focus on inclusivity for community members of all abilities and levels of experience accessing the outdoors.

Water trails typically have a predetermined route along a river with dedicated access points to put in and take out your personal watercraft such as kayak, canoe, raft, or even stand-up paddle board. The trail includes signage and mapping with mile markers to help users of all abilities and experience levels have a better understanding of what to expect on their journey. Even with these new resources, it is important to follow the Leave No Trace principle “know before you go” to stay safe out there. Looking up weather conditions, water levels and flows, common hazards and being aware of your surroundings can ensure you have an incredible day on the water. A key component to this project includes educating the public about how they can keep Montana waters healthy.  Signage at put in and take out locations encourage paddlers to follow Leave No Trace principles and explains how they can help maintain water quality and the sensitive lands surrounding the river corridor.

GVLT was one of many nonprofit and government agency partners that worked together to bringthis vision to life. "It's amazing when a community can rally around a project that combines recreation with the power of education to protect a resource. GVLT relies on its many partners to build incredible trails, and this project is no different," GVLT Trails Director, Matt Parsons said.Partners included Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, the Montana Association of Conservation Districts, Montana Conservation Corps, and GVLT. GVLT and partners will be celebrating the launch of the Missouri Headwaters Paddlers Trail on Friday August 11th at the Missouri Headwaters Boat Lunch at 9am. The public and members of the press are invited to attend. About Gallatin Valley Land Trust: Gallatin Valley Land Trust connects people, communities, and open lands through conservation of working farms and ranches, healthy rivers, and wildlife habitat, and the creation of trails in the Montana headwaters of the Missouri and Upper Yellowstone Rivers. For more information, visit www.gvlt.org.

BOZEMAN — Alicia Crane wasn’t sure how she was going to be able to afford her doctor of nursing practice degree.

As an undergraduate at Montana State University, she had always hoped to earn an advanced degree so she could better serve her rural community, but she knew that raising three children while working as a registered nurse would make paying for another three or four years of school difficult.

Then she applied for MSU’s Advanced Nursing Education Workforce program scholarship. As one of 20 ANEW scholars selected annually, Crane receives a stipend each semester to help cover the costs of tuition, books and travel as she prepares for a career as a nurse practitioner working in a rural community.

“It’s been a huge blessing and help,” Crane said. “I can’t say in words how thankful I am for the scholarship.”

The ANEW program is funded by a grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. MSU received its first ANEW grant in 2019, and it was recently renewed for $2.6 million over four years, which administrators in the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing refer to as ANEW 2.0.

“The ANEW grant allows us to provide the financial support to cover tuition and fees, books and supplies, and even travel,” said Sarah Shannon, dean of MSU’s nursing college. “ANEW also allows us to offer special learning opportunities to ensure that we produce not just nurse practitioners but rural-ready nurse practitioners who are already embedded in and committed to their local communities.”

The ANEW program is designed to increase access to health care for rural Montanans, a core focus of the nursing college. All but two of Montana’s 56 counties are classified as health care professional shortage areas, according to the state’s Department of Health and Human Services.

MSU offers two options in its doctor of nursing practice, or DNP, degree program. Family practice nurse practitioners serve as primary care providers with the ability, in Montana, to diagnose, prescribe and refer patients to specialists. Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners assess, diagnose and treat acute and chronic mental health needs of their patients.

ANEW scholarship recipients commit to working in rural health care. Scholars are required to perform some of their clinical work at rural hospitals or health centers. They also must join the Area Health Education Center scholars program, a two-year, nationally recognized certificate program designed to develop and improve skills to help them better serve patients in rural communities. The AHEC scholars program includes 80 extra hours of learning and access to specialty training seminars, like classes on suturing or managing diabetes in a rural setting.

“They’re going above and beyond what they’re learning in the DNP program and spending more time learning about various health care topics,” said Kailyn Mock, director of the Montana AHEC and Office of Rural Health at MSU.

Many of the current ANEW scholars, like Crane, are already living and working in rural communities. Crane lives in Roberts, Montana, and works nearby at the Beartooth Billings Clinic in Red Lodge.

“What I love about being at a small hospital is being that puzzle piece for my community to provide what they need,” Crane said.

Stacy Stellflug, an MSU nursing professor who is the principal investigator for the ANEW grant, said during the early days of ANEW, many applicants came from large metropolitan areas. Now, she said, many more of the ANEW scholars are coming from rural communities.

The DNP program offers distance learning, which allows students to remain living in their home communities and attend classes virtually. The university also works with clinical preceptors around the state to allow students to perform their hands-on learning, or clinical work, close to home.

“When our students are actually coming from those rural settings, they often have a job promised to them when they graduate,” Stellflug said. “The ANEW grant is a mechanism for them to financially be able to do DNP education and become a much-needed health care provider for rural Montana.”

HELENA – Fishing restriction and closures on several streams in southwest Montana will be lifted at midnight tonight because of recent cool temperatures and forecasted rain.

This includes the hoot owl restrictions on the lower Beaverhead River, four sections on the Big Hole River, the lower Gallatin River, Jefferson River, the lower Madison River and Ruby River. This also includes lifting the full closure on the Madison below Ennis Dam. 

Fishing restrictions, such as hoot owl restrictions and full fishing closures, are designed to protect fish that become more susceptible to disease and mortality when conditions, such as low flows and high water temperatures, combined with other stressors, including catch-and-release fishing.

All stress to fish at this time of year is cumulative, and anglers should consider fishing in cooler waters during times of low flows and high water temperatures in rivers. Anglers can help reduce stress for fish by following these practices when catching and releasing fish, though fish mortality may still occur:

• Fish during the coolest times of day, where permitted.
• Land the fish quickly.
• Wet your hands before handling the fish.
• Keep the fish in water as much as possible.
• Remove the hook gently. Using artificial lures with single and barbless hooks can make hook removal faster and easier.
• If the fish is hooked deeply, you may have to cut the line at the fish’s mouth or consider keeping it if regulations allow.
• Let the fish recover before releasing it.

BOZEMAN – On Aug. 8, Bozeman City Commission will consider adopting an ordinance that would establish restrictions on the time, place, and manner in which people can shelter or camp in the public right of way. The draft ordinance will help the city maintain safe and clean public streets, sidewalks, paths, and boulevards while balancing concerns for people experiencing homelessness.

“The draft ordinance follows 9^th Circuit laws and does not impact anyone’s constitutional right to keep themselves warm and dry while sleeping when no other form of shelter is available,” City of Bozeman Assistant City Manager Kira Peters stated. “Instead, it establishes when, where, and how people can stay in the right-of-way, which would help us better handle things like snow plowing and street sweeping.”

The proposed ordinance allows people to stay in the public right-of-way in a vehicle for up to five days if they are homeless and no other form of shelter is available. After five days, they must move to a different named street.

Additionally, people may not camp adjacent or across from a residence, park, school, or daycare, or within 100 feet of a business entrance. Camping may not occur in violation of any posted parking restrictions or prohibitions, or in a bike lane or sidewalk.

The draft ordinance proposes general rule conditions related to the manner that people stay in the public right-of-way, including that people must maintain clean and orderly spaces with no trash or personal items stored outside their vehicles.

The City’s newly established Community Health & Safety Officers would help people stay in compliance with the proposed regulations through education, notice, and connections to services, with the goal of achieving voluntary compliance. Violations may result in a municipal infraction punishable by a civil penalty of $100. 

The number of people staying in the right-of-way has been increasing along with impacts on the surrounding environment, prompting the creation of the draft ordinance.

Those interested in more information on the draft ordinance can contact the City Manager’s office at 406-582-2306.

CARDWELL – Three women were injured by an otter Wednesday evening while floating on the Jefferson River.

About 8:15 p.m., the three women were floating on inner tubes about 3 miles upstream from Sappington Bridge when they observed one or two otters. An otter approached and attacked them. The women got out of the water, and the otter swam away.

The women then called 911, and several agencies responded, including Montana Highway Patrol, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson Valley Ambulance, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, Life Flight and a local landowner.

All three women were injured during the encounter and received medical treatment in Bozeman. One of them, whose injuries were more serious, was taken to the hospital in a helicopter.

FWP staff have posted signs at several fishing access sites in the area advising recreationists of otter activity. No further management action is planned at this time.

While attacks from otters are rare, otters can be protective of themselves and their young, especially at close distances. They give birth to their young in April and can later be seen with their young in the water during the summer. They may also be protective of food resources, especially when those resources are scarce. Otters are members of the weasel family.

FWP advises recreationists to keep a wide distance, giving all wildlife plenty of space. In drought conditions, low water levels can bring recreationists closer to water-dwelling wildlife. Being aware and keeping your distance can help avoid dangerous encounters, reduce stress for wildlife, and promote healthy animal behavior. If you are attacked by an otter, fight back, get away and out of the water, and seek medical attention.

HELENA – So far this year, FWP and its partners have inspected 66,000 watercraft for aquatic invasive species. Of those, 35 were mussel-fouled and more than 200 were found with aquatic weeds.

FWP and partner agencies, which include tribes, counties and conservation districts, operate more than 17 road-side watercraft inspection stations across the state. To find a watercraft inspection station or to learn more, go to CleanDrainDryMT.com or call the FWP Aquatic Invasive Species Bureau at 406-444-2440.

A July survey for Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM) in Beaver Lake near Whitefish found no EWM. Another follow-up survey will be conducted later this month. Eradication of EWM is the goal for Beaver Lake through persistent survey and removal.

Eurasian watermilfoil in Nilan Reservoir (near Augusta) was treated with herbicide by FWP in 2022. Surveys conducted last month found no evidence of EWM in the lake. Nilan is the only location of EWM on the Rocky Mountain Front and EWM eradication is the objective for that system.

All boaters and other water recreationists need to follow the rules to prevent aquatic invasive species from affecting Montana’s waters.

Those rules include:

• All boats must stop at all open watercraft inspection stations they encounter. Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to $500. 
• Always be sure to clean, drain and dry your boat.
• All watercraft entering Montana are required to be inspected for aquatic invasive species. An inspection is required before launching on Montana waters.
• Non-residents transporting watercraft into Montana must purchase a Vessel AIS Prevention Pass before launching. The fee is $30 for motorized and $10 for nonmotorized watercraft. The pass is valid until Dec. 31.
• Inspection is required for Montana residents before launch IF: the boat is entering the state, crossing west over the Continental Divide or entering the Flathead basin. 

On August 1, 2023, at 1:20 pm, Gallatin County Dispatch received a call for an injured horseback rider on Lizard Lake Trail approximately 2.5 miles from the Cache Creek Trailhead. The injured rider was bucked from the horse and then stepped on. The rider reported injuries to the hip, lower back, leg, and hand.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue Big Sky Section deployed a hasty team on e-bikes as well as ground litter teams. The Heli Team was also requested to access and evacuate the patient. The helicopter was able to land near the patient, load them in the helicopter, and fly to the Sage Creek Trailhead where they were transferred into the care of Big Sky Fire Department for ground transport to Bozeman Health Big Sky Medical Center.

Sheriff Springer wants to remind residents and guest of Gallatin County that horse accidents can be a common occurrence in the backcountry. This rescue was expedited because the group had a GPS device to provide an accurate location, radios to allow for communication with rescuers, and were able to provide clear and accurate information on the condition of the terrain, condition of the patient, and patient needs.

The Downtown Bozeman Association and Cancer Support Community Montana along with our gracious Sponsors present the 23rd Annual “Cruisin’ on Main” Car Show on Sunday, August 20th. The show will run from 9 AM – 2 PM and is located on Main Street between Willson and Rouse Avenues in Downtown Bozeman.
 
“Since 2001, the Downtown Bozeman Association has hosted the “Cruisin’ on Main” Car Show in historic Downtown Bozeman.  It has become a premier, state-wide event celebrating classic cars, trucks & motorcycles.  Since 2011, we’ve partnered with Cancer Support Community (CSC) to raise awareness of the support offered to all people affected by cancer. We’re proud to report that together we’ve raised over $150,000! 

The mission of CSC is to “ensure that all participants are empowered with knowledge, strengthened by action and sustained by communiy”. All the programs at CSC are offered free of charge and this community event helps make that possible!”
 
First, on Saturday afternoon, August 19th, join us for our Pre-Packet Pick-Up and Main Street Cruise from 3-5 PM at the Soroptomist Park, Corner of Rouse and Main. Don’t forget to take a cruise down Main Street to show off your coooool ride before or after you register! Then, on Sunday morning, we will close Main Street to make room for hundreds of cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Same-Day Registration begins at 8 AM at the south intersection of Black Avenue and Main Street.

 
All car classes are welcome; all registered cars will receive a complimentary dash plaque and gift bags filled with fun goodies and business coupons. There is also over 15 trophies awarded in various car classes as well as the treasured “Best in Show” and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in “People’s Choice.”
 
During the car show also enjoy live music from Kate & the AlleyKats, food, and fun throughout the day! There will also be prize drawings, a 50/50 raffle, a showcase display, and a chance for everyone to vote for their favorite vehicles! Come check out the best car show in the state!
 
A huge thanks to our 2023 “Cruisin’ on Main” Car Show Sponsors!
 
Premier – Bos Tint & Sound
Hotrod – Bozeman Health, Les Schwab, Yellowstone Harley Davidson
Classic Car – State Farm, Napa Auto Parts, Cloud 9 Cycles
Checkered Flag – Air Controls, Bozeman Brokers Real Estate Group, Little Stinkers, Mobi Tires, Bridger Mountain Ford Club
Pit Crew – SwissDetail, SCS Wraps, Personalize It, Lehrkinds Coca-Cola, BlueCross BlueShield of Montana, First Security Bank
 
There is no admission fee for spectators at “Cruisin’ on Main”, so funds for our charity come from sponsorships, entry fees, merchandise sales, raffle tickets and most importantly – your donations! Stop by Cancer Support Community booth near the registration area on the corner of Black to donate, pick up a calendar or learn more.

 
The 2023 “Cruisin’ on Main” Car Show will take place rain or shine.
 
For more information about the “Cruisin’ on Main” Car Show, please visit www.downtownbozeman.org/carshow or contact Downtown Bozeman Association at 406-586-4008 and Cancer Support Community at 406-582-1600 and www.cancersupportmontana.org.

BOZEMAN -- The Bozeman Symphony is pleased to announce the appointment of Maren Haynes Marchesini to the position of Interim Symphonic Choir Conductor. A Bozeman native and choral conductor since 2008, Maren brings a passion for artistry and interdisciplinary collaboration drawn from experience in diverse musical ensembles and choirs.

“We are thrilled to welcome Maren to the artistic team. She comes with incredible experiences that I think will be valuable to our organization,’ says Music Director Norman Huynh. “I look forward to working with Maren to develop the Bozeman Symphonic Choir over the next two seasons.”


About Maren Haynes Marchesini: Maren grew up in Bozeman (playing with the Bozeman Symphony from 2000-2002) and returned in 2022 to serve as Director of Music and Worship at Hope Lutheran Church. She holds a PhD in Ethnomusicology from the University of Washington where she studied with advisor Dr. Christina Sunardi and many diverse expert musicians. While at UW, she studied choral conducting under Dr. Geoffrey Boers and Dr. Giselle Wyers, also singing with the UW Chamber Singers. Prior, she earned a BA in Cello Performance from Whitworth University. To learn more about Maren Haynes Marchesini, visit bozemansymphony.org/conductors.

“Shaping choral sound, developing vocal technique, and connecting to our shared purpose and passion fill me with joy. Thus the opportunity to direct the Symphonic Choir, an excellent ensemble with capable and committed singers, is a dream,’ says Haynes Marchesini. “The Bozeman Symphony's exciting artistic vision brings together a passion for the tradition of Western art music, as well as a commitment to its future, supporting living composers, young artists, and unique, diverse collaborations. I look forward to working with Norman and the many talented, committed musicians in the choir (and orchestra) as we bring this vision to life!”

For anyone interested in joining Maren and the Bozeman Symphonic Choir, auditions will be held on September 7 starting at 7:00 PM. Experienced singers of all voice types are welcome and encouraged to email maren@bozemansymphony.org to schedule an audition. Auditions will include vocalizations and sight reading, but no prepared repertoire is required.

During the 2023/24 season, audiences can hear the Bozeman Symphonic choir at the annual Holiday Spectacular December 15-17, 2023, “O, Fortuna” Orff’s Carmina Burana May 18 & 19, 2024, and At the Movies: The Music of John Williams June 7-9, 2024. Tickets can be purchased at bozemansymphony.org or by phone at 406-585-9774.

The Gallatin County Clerk of District Court’s Office is resuming regular public office hours this week. 

Since September 2022, due to short staffing, the Clerk of District Court’s Office has been closing to the public at 3 PM each business day to enable staff to catch up on office work. 

The department is now up to staffing levels that will allow it to resume normal public office hours. 

Beginning Aug. 1, the office will be open Mondays through Fridays from 8 AM to 5 PM. 

The Clerk of District Court’s Office is located on the second floor of the Law and Justice Center (615 S. 16th Ave. in Bozeman). 

Duties for this office include keeping records for District Court, providing marriage licenses, keeping minutes for court proceedings, filing all actions for every case filed in District Court, and more. 

We thank the public for their patience during these months as the Clerk of District Court has worked to hire and train employees.