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Saturday, May. 2nd, 2026

Crawford Fellows present new methods of conserving, managing wildlife habitat

BOZEMAN — Butterflies can be “wicked fast,” Kaylee Guajardo Sullivan discovered three summers ago.  

The second-year master’s student who studies statistics at Montana State University recalled swinging her butterfly net and sprinting across a field in Glacier National Park. Surveying the insects in 23 locations was part of a research effort assessing change in butterfly species diversity from nearly 40 years ago to present day, and she is determining the best way to model the data accurately. 

A statistician may seem like an unlikely addition to wildlife habitat research, but Guajardo Sullivan is one of 57 graduate students at MSU pursuing such interdisciplinary work. The students share a common goal: to study how humans can better protect and manage their environment to support wildlife.  

“If you’re driven and you want something, this is a school that’s going to support you,” said Guajardo Sullivan, who is originally from Chicago and has lived in Montana for nearly six years. “I have no words, only gratitude.” 

This gratitude, she said, is for Kathy Crawford and her late husband, Thomas H. “Tim” Crawford, creators of the Crawford Wildlife Habitat Graduate Fellowship for graduate students and the Crawford Wildlife Habitat Scholarships for undergraduates, which will begin supporting students in the fall. The $30 million gift, awarded to MSU in 2025, is the largest scholarship endowment in the university’s history. 

On April 16, Kathy Crawford and MSU’s Graduate School celebrated the Crawford Fellows with a research showcase, organized by graduate assistant Kade Woolverton. 

“It’s exactly what I had hoped for,” Crawford said. “The enthusiasm is huge for taking care of wildlife habitat, and I’m overwhelmed with appreciation for what the students are doing.” 
Denali Stetson, a second-year master’s student from Corvallis who studies animal and range sciences, presented research on stream characteristics that are the most suitable for beaver colony reintroduction in Montana. 

The U.S. Forest Service has pursued reintroduction initiatives since the 1980s to combat disease and trapping that plagued Montana’s beaver populations. Stetson analyzed a 40-year data set on 11 stream sites across the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, Custer Gallatin National Forest and Yellowstone National Park. She found that beavers are likely to remain near streams that are meandering, have lower slopes and have an average width-to-depth ratio.  

She will continue the research in the fall before graduating in December with what will be her second degree from MSU, the first being a bachelor’s in fish and wildlife management that she earned as a Hilleman Scholar, a program for Montana residents who demonstrate academic and leadership potential. 

“I have always known I wanted to be a wildlife biologist, but actually finding a master’s project and continuing my education means a lot,” she said.  

Sundas Iftikar, a second-year doctoral student studying computer science, said continuing her education was made possible, in part, by the Crawford fellowship. As an international student from Attock, Pakistan, visa restrictions prevent her from finding employment off campus during the school year.  

“I was able to focus on my research without the stress of, ‘How can I manage my rent? How can I manage my debt?’” she said. 

Iftikar studies how unmanned aerial vehicles, or UAVs, can help detect wildfires earlier and prevent the loss of life, ecosystems and property in the U.S. Traditional fire detection technology is unsuitable for large spaces because it experiences delays in dense areas, has limited range and is sensitive to factors like dust that cause false alarms.  

Her research team is training and testing UAV technology, integrated with machine learning algorithms, using more than 48,000 images of wildfires. The images are rotated, cropped or flipped to test the detection models’ intelligence. Iftikar will spend the next three years at MSU working with larger and more diverse wildfire datasets, with potential to explore thermal drone sensors and artificial intelligence-generated weather predictions.  

Another research endeavor presented at the showcase studied how livestock managers can better use their land to feed beef cattle in Montana. Housed in the Department of Animal and Range Sciences, the study covers nearly 11,000 acres between the Madison River and MSU’s Red Bluff Research Ranch in Norris, and researchers followed hundreds of beef cattle over six years of winter grazing. 

Noah Davis helped complete the project as a doctoral student last semester and is now an assistant professor of grazing ecology and management at MSU. He studied changes in forage protein and fiber availability, as well as how livestock interact with the plants they graze. Researchers also gave protein supplements to 318 cattle along their grazing paths and, using GPS collars, tracked how cattle traveled further and grazed less after receiving the supplement.  
“Understanding how animals use the landscape, disturb the landscape and how we can manipulate that is critical,” said Davis, who is from Ventura, California, and has lived in Bozeman for 12 years. 

Many studies like these are making important strides in the conservation field, but they lack outlets to share information with the public, said Timothy Mooring, a second-year student in the Science and Natural History Filmmaking program. Mooring, who is from San Diego, aims to bridge this gap with two short films he presented at the showcase, both featuring the Zambian Carnivore Programme. 

He shadowed the program’s Greater Liuwa Ecosystem branch in western Zambia, which tracks wildebeest migration patterns and where the animals avoid human contact. He said this information will inform conservation efforts that protect areas key to wildebeest passage, a necessity given the animal is a vital food source for Zambian predators.  

Mooring said he was awestruck by the environment his mother described when he was a child — she was born in Zambia and moved to the U.S. at age 26 — and the conservationists’ passion that emanated from the screen.  

“I would finish interviewing someone, and sometimes I would cry,” Mooring said. “I couldn’t believe how inspiring some of these stories and the research were.”  

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First-generation student Kayla Fuller wins ‘life-changing’ scholarship to continue accounting education

BOZEMAN — When Montana State University junior Kayla Fuller heard news that she won a $15,000 national accounting scholarship, allowing her to pursue a master’s degree when she would have otherwise been unable to do so, two words came to mind.  

“Life-changing. This scholarship is genuinely life-changing to me,” said Fuller, who is majoring in accounting and marketing with a minor in finance in MSU’s Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. She is also a first-generation student, meaning she is the first person in her immediate family to pursue higher education.  

Fuller, who is from Pine, Colorado, received the scholarship from the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board in April. The money is designated for tuition for students pursuing a future career in accounting.  

Earlier in April, Fuller said she was on the phone with her mom discussing her career options, given the expense of a master’s degree. If she could not afford it, Fuller planned to work full time at an accounting firm and study for the certified public accountant exam independently, but that is less ideal than a graduate program, she said. In Montana, a one-year master’s program reduces the work experience hours required to sit for the exam, and it carries the benefit of institutional support and guidance from faculty.  

A master’s program “will allow me to put more time into studying for my CPA exam as I try to become the most knowledgeable financial professional that I can be,” Fuller said. 

Upon completion of her bachelor’s degree, Fuller now plans to stay at MSU and apply for the Master of Professional Accountancy program, or MPAc. She said she is thrilled to remain in Bozeman and continue working with some of the same professors who have taught her already. 
“Kayla displays high ethical standards, focusing on independence, acting fairly and with professional skepticism, carefully questioning assumptions and being thorough,” said Angela Woodland, the accounting professor who administered the award. “She knows when to ask for guidance or a second opinion to ensure decisions are correct.” 

Fuller, who has always been drawn to studying business, said she became interested in accounting after taking an introductory class with assistant professor Brad Kamreth. She found the accounting field spanned areas she was interested in, and she also appreciated the job security. According to university data, MSU’s MPAc program routinely boasts a 100% job placement rate for its graduates.  

This summer, Fuller will intern as a credit analyst for Opportunity Bank in Bozeman. She landed the opportunity thanks to Jabs Networking Night and the Bracken Center at MSU, which prepared her for networking and interviewing, and helped hone her resume. 

“I’m eternally grateful for Jabs,” Fuller said. “I think the classes, professors and all the resources available have really set me up for success.”  

Fuller has also been an involved student outside of the business college. She is a Western Undergraduate Exchange Scholar, one of the most prestigious merit-based scholarships offered by MSU, earned a CABLE scholarship her freshman year and is a current TRIO Scholar, a designated support system for first-generation and low-income students.  

Additionally, she is a regular member of Cats Catholic, is president of MSU’s Backcountry Squatters chapter – a space for women and nonbinary athletes pursuing outdoor recreation activities – and works as the communications director for the university’s student government, the Associated Students of MSU. Outside of school, she enjoys mountain biking, climbing, swing dancing and generally being outside. For the past three summers, she has worked as a multi-sport instructor and last summer as assistant director for a Colorado-based outdoor education company, Avid4 Adventure.  

“I just feel super blessed to have this opportunity,” Fuller said. “I’m so excited to be able to continue my education and hopefully contribute to the accounting world.”  

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Thursday, Apr. 30th, 2026

How to Choose a Home in Bozeman That Works for You Long Term

Buying a home in Bozeman takes a little more thought than it once did. Prices remain high, demand stays steady, and the area continues to attract people who want a different pace of life. That has changed the conversation for many buyers. It is no longer only about finding a home that works today. It is about finding one that will still feel like the right choice a few years from now.

That shift has made homeownership feel more intentional. Buyers are looking beyond square footage and price range and thinking about how a property will support their lives over time. A home that fits now should still offer comfort, stability, and room to adapt if routines or priorities change.

Looking ahead does not have to make the process feel overwhelming. It simply helps you make a clearer decision and gives you more options for the future. 

Start With the Way You Actually Live

Before you think about resale value or future plans, take a close look at your everyday life. Bozeman offers a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its own feel, pace, and access to the outdoors. The best fit often starts with a basic question: what do you want daily life to look like?

For some buyers, living close to downtown is the priority. They want to be near restaurants, shops, events, and the places they visit most often. For others, the better fit is a quieter area with more space, less traffic, and easier access to trails or open land. Commute times, school options, and winter driving conditions can all shape how a home feels after the initial excitement fades.

It also helps to be honest about how much space you really need. A larger home can be appealing, but it also brings more upkeep, more expense, and more to manage throughout the year. A smaller home that fits your routine may feel easier to maintain and more comfortable in the long run.

When a home suits the way you already live, it has a better chance of continuing to work as life gets busier.

Think Past the First Few Years

It is easy to focus on immediate needs, especially in a market where decisions can feel urgent. Still, the strongest home purchases usually come from thinking a little further ahead.

Jobs change. Families grow. Priorities shift. A layout that feels ideal now may feel limiting later if it does not leave room for a home office, guests, storage, or a different daily rhythm. Even details that seem small at first, like yard size, stairs, or an extra room, can matter more with time.

The same goes for how long you expect to stay. Even if you think you may move eventually, it helps to choose a home that will continue to appeal to future buyers or still serve a purpose in your next chapter. A property with flexibility tends to give you more confidence from the start.You do not need to predict every turn your life may take. You just want a home that leaves room for change.

Location Shapes Long-Term Value

Where you buy matters just as much as what you buy. In Bozeman, location influences everything from your daily routine to long-term value as the city continues to grow and shift.

Some buyers are drawn to neighborhoods near downtown and established community spaces. Others care more about access to trails, quieter streets, or a little more room to spread out. Schools, nearby amenities, and future development can all affect whether an area continues to feel like a good fit over time.

It is worth paying attention to neighborhoods that show steady appeal without losing the qualities that made them attractive in the first place. A location with lasting draw often makes ownership feel more secure, whether you plan to stay for years or move on later.

A good location does more than meet your needs today. It keeps making sense as your life and the community around you continue to evolve.

Planning for Flexibility Down the Road

One of the most valuable things a home can offer is flexibility. Even if you plan to stay for a while, it helps to choose a property that gives you options if your plans change.

Some homeowners relocate for work or family and decide to keep the home rather than sell right away. Others reach a point where renting it out makes sense for a season. That may not be part of your plan today, but it is still worth thinking about while you are buying.

Once you start considering future rental use, financing starts to matter in a different way.  Not every property works well as a future rental, and not every loan makes that transition equally smooth. For buyers who want to keep that option open, it can help to look into the best lenders for rental property and get a clearer sense of which financing options may support that kind of long-term flexibility.

Thinking ahead like this does not commit you to one path. It simply makes it easier to adjust if your circumstances change.

Understanding the Financial Side of Ownership

A home’s price is only one part of the picture. Over time, the full cost of ownership shows up through property taxes, insurance, maintenance, utilities, and the repairs that tend to arrive when you least expect them. In Bozeman, winter can add another layer of wear and expense.

That is why it helps to look at the full financial picture early. Buyers who plan for monthly costs, upkeep, and a repair reserve often feel more comfortable once the purchase is behind them. A little preparation at the beginning can spare you a lot of stress later.

For a broader look at the expenses of homeownership, this guide to the costs of buying a home offers useful context.

A home that fits your finances realistically is much more likely to remain the right fit over time.

Making a Choice That Still Feels Right Later

The best home purchase is rarely about finding something perfect. It is about finding something that fits your life, your priorities, and the future you can reasonably see ahead.

When you weigh daily livability, flexibility, location, and the real cost of ownership, the decision becomes clearer. You are not only buying for the version of life you are living today. You are choosing a home that can continue to support you over the next several years.

For a more local perspective on building a life here, putting down roots in Bozeman offers a helpful companion read. 

Conclusion

Buying a home in Bozeman is a meaningful decision, and it usually works best when you think about both the present and the future. The right home should support the way you live now while still giving you room to adjust as life changes.

That does not mean having every detail figured out from day one. It means choosing with intention, leaving space for flexibility, and trusting that a thoughtful decision today can continue to serve you well later.

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Wednesday, Apr. 29th, 2026

During annual event at Montana State, students consider history through new lens

A student answers questions from judges on her poster board as Montana State University hosts the annual National History Day in Montana state contest Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Bozeman, Mont. MSU photo by Colter Peterson

BOZEMAN — The Cold War. Musicians Coleman Hawkins and Louis Armstrong. Sputnik. The Greensboro sit-ins during the Civil Rights Movement. These were just a few of the people and historical events students highlighted during the state contest for National History Day in Montana, a project-based learning program for middle and high school students from across the state. The annual event – which is affiliated with National History Day, a nonprofit education organization – was held on Saturday at Montana State University.

For the approximately 180 participating students, the National History Day in Montana state contest was an opportunity to see and share history through a new lens. The event encouraged students to consider whose stories are told, remembered and carried forward.

Hailey Hancock, assistant teaching professor in the MSU Department of Education and one of the event’s organizers, invited participants to reflect on which historical perspectives are shared and which are not.

“I also encourage you to reflect on the lessons you have learned,” Hancock said in remarks to students at the event. “Think about how you have grown academically and personally from this experience. We’re so happy you’re here.”

This year’s National History Day in Montana state contest included a keynote lecture, “The Journey of York: A Living History Experience,” given by author and performer Hasan Davis. During the keynote, Davis shared a first-person historical interpretation of York, an enslaved man who was a member of the Lewis and Clark expedition. Davis and his son Malcolm Davis also co-facilitated an interactive intergenerational story lab workshop.

Hancock said the contest is the pinnacle of National History Day in Montana. Some students began their research at the beginning of the school year, and for many the state contest was the last time they presented it to a large audience. To participate, students in grades 6–12 choose a historical topic related to an annual theme, develop an original historical argument and conduct research using primary and secondary sources. Contestants can complete projects individually or with a group, and the final presentation can be in one of five formats: documentary, exhibit, paper, performance or website. This year’s contest theme is “Revolution, Reaction and Reform.” 
Prior to the state competition, students may participate in school-wide contests or community competitions, then a regional contest. In addition to the statewide contest held Saturday at MSU, Montana regional contests were held this year in Kalispell, Helena and Dickinson, North Dakota.

On Saturday in the senior individual performance category, Thomas Johnson, a sophomore at Jefferson High School in Boulder, performed “Wobblies in the Woods: War, Work and the Fight for Reform in Montana’s Timber Camps.” After the performance, two judges praised the stories Johnson shared and the props he used, including newspaper articles he found. They also learned about how he chose the topic and where he did his research.

In another contest category called senior documentary, juniors Alivia Snyder and Kloe Svoboda from Victor shared a film they created about the Pentagon Papers, “American Coverup: How the Freedom of Press Sparked Revolution, Reaction and Reformation,” and answered questions from four judges.

During that questioning, Snyder and Svoboda reflected on what the theme meant to them, the challenges they faced in creating the documentary and the insights they gained from tackling the project.

“There were two big challenges,” Snyder said. “Working in a team means that one person wants one thing, one person wants another thing. We had to find a way to merge our ideas and come up with something we both thought was good.”

She noted they also faced challenges dealing with technology issues and websites where they were searching for information. For example, during a shutdown of the federal government over the winter, some sites where they had planned to conduct research, such as the website for the National Archives, were not available. 

In an interview after their presentation, Snyder and Svoboda both encouraged future National History Day in Montana participants to carefully consider their choice of topic.
“Find a topic that really interests you,” Svoboda said. “It feels less like homework that way.”
“When you’re doing a project, focus on having fun,” Snyder added. “You have to have fun.”
The top two projects in each category at the April 25 state contest will have the opportunity to compete at the national contest, set for June 14-18 at the University of Maryland.
National History Day in Montana is sponsored by MSU’s Department of Education and the Montana Historical Society. Co-coordinators are Hancock and Melissa Hibbard, interpretive historian with the Montana Historical Society.

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Tuesday, Apr. 28th, 2026

European Holiday Tradition: Blown Glass Christmas Ornaments

Christmas is a favorite holiday in Europe, when some people enjoy the time spent with family and friends, others - giving and receiving gifts, but mainly it’s the time when families gather to celebrate the real meaning of Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ. The season is a magical time, filled with traditions, and one of these is decorating the Christmas tree and the home. There are plenty of options when it comes to decorations, but some of the best are fine blown glass Christmas ornaments for your Christmas tree.
Holiday Traditions                   

In the lead-up to Christmas, special holiday markets appear throughout Europe. These get you into the holiday spirit and give you a feeling of old-world charm. Wooden stalls display an array of hand-carved wooden ornaments and nativity scenes, glass Christmas ornaments, wreaths, aromatic candles, and gifts. There are smells of roasting chestnuts, mulled wine, and hot cocoa. Fairy lights twinkle, and sometimes there is Santa Claus for the children to visit.

Early December is the time to decorate your home for the season. Decorations don't only give you a feel-good factor, but they tell a story. The color scheme you choose, the type of ornaments, and the amount of decorations you have all give an insight into your personality. Glass ornaments, for example, exude elegance and tradition so maybe you are sophisticated.

In Europe, children receive their gifts on different days. In Germany, for example, the ‘Nikolaus’ or Saint Nicholas brings gifts on December 6th. In Eastern Europe, presents are given on Christmas Eve. In Poland, it is Father Christmas who brings gifts, while in the Czech Republic, it is Jesus Christ. In the UK, Father Christmas leaves presents on Christmas Eve to be opened on Christmas Day. In Greece, St Basil brings gifts during the night of New Year's Eve to be opened on the morning of the New Year. In Spain, children receive their presents on January 6th, the day the Three Kings delivered their gifts to the baby Jesus.

Another important Christmas tradition is the celebratory meal on Christmas Eve, yet different European countries have differing customs when it comes to the specifics of this meal. In Poland, for example, they have a 12-course meal on Christmas Eve. In Italy, fish dishes are the traditional meal on Christmas Eve. In other countries, such as the UK, the celebratory meal is held on Christmas Day.

The History of Blown Glass Christmas Ornaments                               
16th - 17th Centuries

In the 16th century, the Germans decorated trees outside with fruit and nuts in the lead-up to Christmas. However, in 1605, a fir tree was first brought indoors and decorated with such things as paper roses and candles. This custom spread quickly throughout Germany and then around the world, making Christmas trees one of the most international traditions, which is not really tied to the religious meaning of Christmas.

Around this time, glass Christmas ornaments were first produced in the small town of Lauscha, well-known for glass-blowing. Initially, the designs were simple, such as fruit and nuts.

The 19th Century

Glass ornaments came into their own when a German glass artisan, Hans Greiner, started to create intricately designed and hollow glass baubles in the 1840s. The first ones were coated inside with toxic mercury or lead, which gave a beautiful and reflective shine but were dangerous to health. Later, for the same effect, the insides of the baubles were silvered with a mix of silver nitrate and sugar water.

Up to this point, the Christmas tree was only a German tradition, but Queen Victoria of Great Britain popularized it, and the tradition later spread it throughout Europe and globally. In 1846, an illustration of Queen Victoria and her family admiring a Christmas tree was published, immediately making it popular with the British public.

Late 19th - 21st Centuries

In the late 19th century, the retailer, F. W. Woolworth from the United States, started to import German glass ornaments, making them popular outside Europe.

However, the Industrial Revolution brought mass production of many products, and this affected the creation of

Christmas ornaments. They were now made in bulk out of tin, paper, and, in particular, plastic. Tinsel was invented in Germany, first made out of silver and later out of tin.

However, after many years of cheap plastic ornaments, people have started to appreciate the hand-made quality of days gone by. Plastic is being replaced with blown glass ornaments, which, although more expensive, are elegant and add a touch of sophistication to a room. Italy is well-known for producing blown glass, and Murano glass ornaments have become popular. Hand-made Christmas decorations are appreciated because they have been created by artisans who love their work and will spend hours making a bauble for your Christmas tree, one which you can pass down to your children.

What is Special About Glass Christmas Ornaments?

When you place your first handmade glass ornament on your tree, you will realise what you have been missing with plastic baubles. Each one that you buy has a history. It has been lovingly created, often using techniques going back centuries, and by skilled glassblowers. Because these decorations are unique, they can become treasured keepsakes, representing important moments in your life. You can even buy them to celebrate significant events, like your baby's first Christmas.

Glass decorations have a beauty that is timeless. Many created a century ago will still be relevant today, and ones made now will stand the test of time.

These decorations are also versatile. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, so you should be able to find ones that suit your decor and style. This lets you create a personalized Christmas tree, one that reflects your tastes and style preferences.

While they seem delicate, glass ornaments can be used year after year, and, if looked after properly, they can become fine family keepsakes. Each bauble can hold a lifetime of history.

Glass has a translucent nature, allowing light to pass through. When translated into a Christmas decoration, it creates a captivating mix of shadow and light on your tree, something that can't be achieved with plastic baubles. It is a tiny work of art, showcasing the holiday season and adding sophistication to your festive decor. Glass is also reflective and makes your Christmas tree sparkle.

Popular Types of Blown Glass Ornaments

Blown glass Christmas ornaments, including those created on the island of Murano, are made in different shapes and sizes to suit your decor, style, and the impression you want to make.

The most common ornaments are globes or balls. They are classic, and many have intricate designs representing the holiday season. Their many different sizes allow you to put them on either small or large trees.

Figural ornaments are also popular. Among others, they could be angels, Santa Claus, or snowmen. They often come in bright colors so they stand out, adding a light-hearted vibe to your Christmas tree. They are especially popular with children who often love to hear stories built around the characters.

Icicles are long, thin decorations resembling real icicles. They add a shimmering touch to your tree while depicting a winter scene.

Teardrops are, as the name suggests, teardrop-shaped. They are elegant and refined, often with detailed designs. Because of their shape, they reflect light beautifully.

Snowflakes are popular glass ornaments that look like the real thing but magnified. They have intricate and symmetrical designs and add a hint of winter fascination to your Christmas tree. Mix them with icicles for a seasonal wonderland.

Place a glass star on your Christmas tree to represent the Star of Bethlehem. Stars are often placed at the top of the tree, depicting the true meaning of Christmas, that is, the birth of Christ.

Dangle ornaments hang from a central point with elements that sway, adding a fun aspect to your tree. Other types of blown glass Christmas ornaments include candy canes and bells.

Glass ornaments are rooted in the past, but are more than relevant today. They are elegant, sophisticated, and have the ability to evoke a nostalgic feeling of Christmases past. Although originating in Germany, they are now produced all over the world, including Murano. Italian blown glass ornaments are particularly special with their bright colors, variety of shapes and sizes, and the skill of highly trained artisans.

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Friday, Apr. 24th, 2026

Montana State senior Erika Hardy completes year of service with Gallatin Valley YMCA


BOZEMAN — At Montana State University, senior Erika Hardy fully committed herself to a slate of extracurricular activities. From her consulting internship to holding leadership roles in several clubs to finding the best trivia nights in Bozeman with her friends, she has approached her college experience with equal parts energy and enthusiasm.  

This spring, just weeks away from commencement, Hardy added another achievement — completing her term of service as a Boardroom Bobcat.  

Originally from Lehi, Utah, Hardy is set to graduate in May with a major in finance and a minor in international business, programs both housed in MSU’s Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship.  During her time in the business college, Hardy served as a Jabs Ambassador, planning college-wide events and mentoring first and second year students; supported the Finance Club as its vice president; and steered the financial decisions of the Women in Business Club as its treasurer.  

She was also one of 17 students in the Boardroom Bobcats program, an initiative of the MSU Leadership Institute that connects service-driven students with a local nonprofit, where they serve as non-voting board members for a full academic year. The program began in 2016, and nearly 100 students have participated since.  

Hardy was paired with the Gallatin Valley YMCA for her year of service. She was recommended to the program by her friend Emily Fettig in the Women in Business Club, who participated in Boardroom Bobcats last academic year.  

Hardy thought the experience would be a good way to get more involved in community service while also broadening her experience beyond business-focused activities. 

“We don’t often discuss nonprofit operations in my typical business classes,” Hardy said. “So, I thought (Boardroom Bobcats) would be a good way to get involved and learn more about that world.” 

At the YMCA, Hardy was able to use her education in finance to help the nonprofit. For example, she worked on using financial models to make future financial projections, which are used to inform critical business decisions.  

Beyond that, Hardy provided input and a student perspective for event planning and budgeting decisions during the nonprofit's bimonthly board meetings. Because only one board member, the CEO, is paid, and the rest are volunteers, Hardy helped out wherever she was needed, filling in volunteer gaps and assisting with tasks when outside help was unavailable.  

Her experience culminated into volunteering at the YCMA’s 5K Color Run on April 25, which is the organization's largest fundraiser of the year.  

Hardy said that overall, her biggest takeaway was feeling inspired by the volunteers and their work-life balance. There are so many people deeply involved in the YCMA, she said, pouring in time and effort without compensation while also balancing full-time jobs and families. Seeing people she admired be able to do both made her feel like she could do the same in the future.  
Upon graduating, Hardy hopes to find a job in the finance field. She currently serves as a project coordinator intern at the consulting group Profitable Ideas Exchange and she plans to continue that internship and remain in Bozeman through the summer.  

As she enters this next chapter, Hardy is focused on continuing to collect the experiences and skills that interest her while trusting they will ultimately lead to her next opportunity. Being flexible and open-minded are traits that her MSU business professors strongly emphasized, she said, noting how many of them took nontraditional career paths to academia.  

“Erika’s experience with the YMCA is a great example of what happens when students have the opportunity to apply what they’re learning in real community contexts,” said Sienna George, director of the MSU Leadership Institute. “Her experience in Boardroom Bobcats shows how students gain direct insight into the nonprofit sector while developing the skills they carry forward into their future careers.” 

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Wednesday, Apr. 22nd, 2026

Belgrade and Gallatin County Plan Transition of Planning and Development Review in “Donut” Area on July 1

The City of Belgrade and Gallatin County are working together to transition who is responsible for land use planning in the 4.5-mile area surrounding Belgrade city limits. Beginning July 1, 2026, Gallatin County will assume planning and development review responsibilities in that area, often called the “Belgrade Donut.”

Both the city and county are coordinating closely to make the transition as smooth as possible. This includes sharing information, aligning planning efforts, and continuing public outreach so that community members remain informed and involved.

This transition, initiated by Belgrade, will shift planning and development review within this area to Gallatin County, allowing the City of Belgrade to focus its resources on meeting new requirements under the Montana Land Use Planning Act (MLUPA).

The City of Belgrade will continue to process complete applications received prior to July 1. However, to provide greater continuity in review, applicants with subdivision or buildings for lease or rent proposals who have not yet submitted are encouraged to wait and submit directly to Gallatin County after July 1. Gallatin County will begin offering pre-submittal meetings for projects in the Belgrade Donut area starting May 1.

This jurisdiction change will include Gallatin County extending its growth policy to encompass the Belgrade Donut. While the City of Belgrade’s planning documents will be updated to comply with the requirements of MLUPA.

Public input remains an important part of this process. Feedback gathered during recent outreach efforts will continue to inform planning efforts. Additional opportunities for public involvement are planned as both jurisdictions update their policies.

The County Commission will discuss the transition and related planning efforts during their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, May 12 at 9 a.m. at the Gallatin County Courthouse at 311 W. Main St., third floor Community Room, With a virtual option available. Community members are encouraged to attend and stay involved.

For questions, please contact either jurisdiction at the following:

To receive updates, community members can visit www.envisiongallatin.com for Gallatin County projects or www.BeHeardBelgrade.com for City of Belgrade initiatives.

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New ‘Zero Waste’ report at Montana State highlights campus sustainability initiatives


BOZEMAN – Montana State University’s incoming freshmen arrive each fall with belongings such as TVs, fans and electronics that are often wrapped in plastic and cushioned with Styrofoam in their original cardboard cartons. While disposing of packaging in the nearest recycling bin might seem like a simple task, MSU’s first Zero Waste coordinator Garrett Wright understands there’s a little more to it.

“If people throw all the Styrofoam and plastic back in the cardboard box, now it’s not recyclable – it’s contaminated. And if there’s too much contamination, an entire 10-yard roll-off (dumpster) could just be tossed in the trash,” explained Wright, whose responsibilities in MSU’s Office of Sustainability include ensuring that recyclable waste on campus doesn’t end up in a landfill.

In advance of Move-In 2025, Wright’s team collaborated with MSU’s Residence Hall Association, resident advisers and Move-In volunteers to help new Bobcats dispose of their packing materials properly.

“I’m super, super proud to say that we had 0% cardboard contamination for all of the 2025 Move-In, and we also reduced trash campus-wide by 21,000 pounds in the month of August over the year before,” he said.

The project was one of the first overseen by Wright, a 2024 alumnus who has served as MSU’s first Zero Waste coordinator since last July. He is building on the university’s 17-year effort to divert waste from landfills, which began in 2009 with a student-led recycling movement that has been strongly supported by MSU Facilities Services and the Office of Sustainability since 2012.

In 2021, the university set a goal in its campus Sustainability Framework to become a Zero Waste Campus by 2035, meaning that by then, it will divert from landfills at least 90% of the waste generated on campus. As the program coordinator, Wright recently completed a Zero Waste Report for fiscal year 2025, recapping the university’s annual waste diversion rates since 2009 – from 2.69% to 28.5% in 2025 – and introducing an action plan for continued progress toward the 2035 goal.
The three primary strategies identified in the report include fostering a campus-wide culture shift through education and outreach events, such as the Move-In recycling campaign; promoting the purchase of sustainable products, like the compostable materials widely used by MSU Culinary Services across campus; and increasing infrastructure so that everyone at MSU has the resources available to make “a zero-waste decision.” Examples of such infrastructure include the recently installed compost bins in Herrick Hall and Marsh Laboratory.
Those strategies have already met with measurable success. In the first nine months of the current fiscal year, which began in July, MSU recycled and composted 124,000 more pounds of material and sent 85,274 fewer pounds to the landfill than it did in fiscal year 2025, and the average diversion rate through March has risen to 32.5%, Wright said.

He has been assisted by student interns for the past two semesters, including Madeline Ayala, a December 2025 graduate who worked with the Residence Hall Association last fall on a project to help on-campus students develop a recycling habit. Starting in the Johnstone Center residence hall, Ayala helped equip each room with a personal-size bin and sticker itemizing recyclable items. The bins are meant to remind students that some of what they are tempted to discard in the trash may be recyclable.

“The whole goal is to allow for students to make the easier choice to recycle with a bin in their room,” Wright said, noting that the Johnstone pilot project may be expanded to other residence halls, in line with the “culture shift” tenet of the three-point plan.

To keep track of the percentage of MSU’s total waste that is recycled, composted or landfilled, Wright tracks figures provided by the university’s solid waste vendors. He now shares those figures monthly with different campus entities, such as housing or sports facilities, so that they can track the recycling rates at residence halls or the weight of products recycled during a football game.
As Wright observed during Move-In, zero-waste awareness across campus is increasing.
“This is a university – it’s about education. That increased enthusiasm about being part of something is awesome to see, and that’s how you create long-lasting change,” Wright said.
He invites offices, buildings or student groups interested in learning more about Zero Waste initiatives to reach out for more information.

“It’s not just our office promoting zero waste – it’s an MSU community initiative that reaches every corner of campus,” he said.

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How to Complete an Online Firearm Purchase in Montana

Image Source: Pexels

Buying a firearm online in Montana is easier than most people expect, and the steps are far more straightforward once you know what to look for. Maybe you’ve found the perfect rifle listed online, and now you’re wondering how actually to get it into your hands.


In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how the process works from start to finish. You’ll see how to choose the right FFL, avoid scam listings, understand fees, and complete your pickup with confidence.

Choosing the Right FFL
Finding a trustworthy FFL can shape your entire buying experience. A good transfer dealer will communicate clearly, explain their fees, and help you avoid common mistakes. Start by looking at nearby shops and asking how they handle transfers, since each business sets its own policies.
What to Consider in an FFL

Before committing to a transfer location, look for details that show they keep their process smooth. A few important signs include:

● Reasonable transfer fees
● Clear communication about pickup rules
● A willingness to verify the seller’s information

Once you’ve picked an FFL, you can move on to reviewing sellers and deciding who deserves your business.

Verifying a Seller and Avoiding Scams
Many Montana buyers come online for great prices, but low prices aren’t always a good sign. Sketchy sellers often lean on urgency or unclear communication, which is why buyer vigilance matters. You should always take time to confirm that the seller provides detailed photos, clear payment instructions, and a proven track record.

In this step, you’ll also need to compare total costs, including shipping and transfer fees. This is a natural place to reference reliable guides on marketplace safety, especially when talking about protecting yourself online. If you want a thorough breakdown of typical fees and red flags, you can learn more about how to buy and sell on GunBroker safely by reviewing a helpful guide that covers these steps in detail.

Tracking Your Shipment and Preparing for Pickup
Once your seller ships the firearm, it’s helpful to track the package so you know exactly when it’s headed to your FFL. Most carriers update their tracking information regularly, which gives you a clear timeline and helps you plan your pickup.

When the FFL receives your firearm, they’ll usually log it in and contact you within a day. This is a good time to double-check their hours and gather any documents you’ll need. Arriving prepared ensures the background check and paperwork move quickly, making your pickup smooth and stress-free.

Paying for the Firearm and Picking It Up
Most reputable online sellers offer straightforward payment options, which makes your online shopping safer and easier to track. Stay cautious of anyone pushing uncommon payment methods or refusing to provide documentation. When everything checks out, you’re ready to complete the transaction and wait for your firearm to arrive at your FFL.

What to Bring to Your FFL
When pickup day comes, your FFL will guide you through the required paperwork. Before heading out, make sure you bring a few essentials:

● A valid Montana ID
● Any documents your FFL requests
● Enough time for the background check

Once your background check is approved and your Form 4473 is complete, you’re all set to take your newest addition home.

What Smart Buyers Do Next
After your first online firearm purchase, it’s natural to think about how to make future buys even smoother. Many Montana gun owners start keeping a list of trusted FFLs and reputable sellers, which helps them avoid last-minute research each time. It also helps to follow marketplace trends, since transfer fees, processing times, and common scam tactics change over time.

As you build experience, you’ll learn how to spot a great deal without falling for pressure tactics or suspicious listings. Continuing to refine your approach will make each purchase feel less stressful and more rewarding.

Moving Forward With Confidence
Completing an online firearm purchase in Montana feels far more manageable once you understand each step and know what to expect along the way. As you get comfortable with verifying sellers, coordinating with a solid FFL, and navigating the transfer process, buying online becomes a smooth, stress-free experience.

If you’ve picked up useful insights or want to share your own experiences, feel free to jump into the conversation. Your perspective might be exactly what another Montana buyer needs.

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Montana State scientist helps bring Yellowstone to screen in film premiering on Earth Day


BOZEMAN – A film connecting Yellowstone National Park’s past and present through an immersive visual and musical journey will premiere at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, in the Hager Auditorium at the Museum of the Rockies. The event is free and open to the public.

“Yellowstone Wild Through Time,” which in January received several awards of merit from the Cannes Film Festival in the Best Nature/Wildlife Film category, was created by independent filmmaker Carol Amore with scientific guidance from Roland Hatzenpichler, director of Montana State University’s Thermal Biology Institute and associate professor in MSU’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry in the College of Letters and Science.

The unnarrated documentary tells Yellowstone’s story through images displayed against a musical soundtrack to convey the drama happening on screen. The visual tour explores many of the park’s facets, including its ecosystems, weather, wildlife and predator-prey interactions. Wishing to thoroughly depict the wonders of the nation’s first national park for America’s 250th birthday, Amore also chose to highlight Yellowstone’s geothermal features, including erupting geysers, colorful hot springs and thermal formations created by ancient and contemporary microbes. To ensure the film’s scientific integrity, Amore sought Hatzenpichler’s advisement.
“Roland and I are collaborating to make science interesting for people, even if they don’t speak English, which are half of the people who visit Yellowstone,” Amore said. “We wanted to make something that was inspiring and uplifting and makes people curious.”

The Thermal Biology Institute is made up of a multidisciplinary team of MSU scientists, including chemists and microbiologists, focused on the unique thermal environments in Yellowstone National Park. It is the microbes and extremophiles living in many of the park’s features that are responsible for the beautiful and varied colors of the hot springs. TBI’s long-term goal is to understand how those organisms respond and adapt to the unique physical and chemical features of geothermal environments.

TBI engages in K-12 outreach, as well as a summer continuing education course for science teachers and National Science Foundation-funded education efforts for MSU graduate and undergraduate students. The institute also works with Yellowstone Forever, the nonprofit arm of Yellowstone National Park, to develop outreach resources.

Hatzenpichler said he hopes his work on “Yellowstone Wild Through Time,” as well as on a planned sequel to the film that will focus even more closely on the park’s geothermal features, will strengthen TBI’s longstanding relationship with the National Park Service. For example, after the institute was founded in 1999, TBI developed several poster exhibits to educate visitors about the park’s thermal features and their microscopic inhabitants.

“The exhibits haven’t been updated in a while, and while the information on them is still true, we now know a lot more about the geothermal features from the geology side as well as the biology side of hot springs,” he said. “We hope this will be a great opportunity to continue working with the park and maybe update some of these poster exhibits, which are seen by (nearly) 5 million visitors annually.”

After the film screening, Amore will give a presentation about the making of the film, and Hatzenpichler will talk about the scientific and societal significance of some of the research taking place in the park. He will discuss his research group’s discovery of two new microbes living in Yellowstone’s thermal features that one day could contribute to the development of methods to mitigate climate change and provide insight into potential life elsewhere in our solar system.

He also will tell of some other ventures that have arisen from MSU’s work in Yellowstone, including that of a former MSU graduate student who, while studying heat-tolerant fungi in the park, discovered that they are edible and nutritious. The student went on to found Nature’s Fynd, a company that uses the fungi to create a wide range of meat and dairy alternatives that are sold in stores nationwide. The National Park Service receives a percentage of the company’s proceeds.

To reserve a seat for the free screening, register online at https://bit.ly/4bVYpGN.

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