HELENA – During its meeting on Feb. 22, the Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted a new regulation that prohibits snagging of paddlefish within the intake fish bypass channel on the Yellowstone River.

The intake fish bypass channel is part of a Yellowstone River intake diversion dam project. The project’s objectives are to improve upstream and downstream fish passage for pallid sturgeon and other native species, including paddlefish, while maintaining water diversions into the lower Yellowstone project main canal.

Snagging for paddlefish is very popular in the lower Yellowstone and can lead to high concentrations of anglers targeting paddlefish during spawning migrations. Since it is not yet fully understood how the fish bypass channel will influence fish movements and angler behavior, the department proposed closing the bypass channel to snagging to avoid any unintentional catch of migrating pallid sturgeon and other native species.

Closing the bypass to snagging could also reduce potential conflicts between paddlefish anglers and FWP monitoring crews. The bypass channel will remain open for passage by boats and for angling by other methods.  

BOZEMAN — Registration is now open for Montana State University’s summer writing camps for students in grades 3 through 12. The camps will be held in July on the MSU campus. 

The Youth Writing Camp is a five-day camp that runs July 10-14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for students entering grades 5 through 12 in fall 2023. Students can either be dropped off each day or stay in an MSU residence hall and take meals in the dining hall. The commuter price is $275 through May 30 and $300 after that date. The residence hall option costs $725 through May 30 ($750 after that date). 

The Young Writer’s Camp is a four-day camp from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for students entering third and fourth grades in fall 2023. Running July 11-14, the Young Writer’s Camp does not include an option to be housed on campus. The price is $225 through May 30 and $250 after May 30. 

The camps are filled with activities like walking field trips, writing games and specialized workshops led by local writers. Participants receive guidance and feedback throughout the writing process from licensed educators and will learn how to write in multiple genres. 

A writing showcase will be held on Friday, July 14, and allow parents to join the campers to celebrate their creativity. The Young Writer’s Camp showcase is scheduled for 1 to 2 p.m., and the Youth Writing Camp showcase is from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. 

Both camps are presented by the Yellowstone Writing Project and MSU Continuing, Professional and Lifelong Learning. The camps are led by teachers and junior counselors from the Yellowstone Writing Project, which is based in MSU’s Department of English in the College of Letters and Science.  

For more information or to register online, please visit ato.montana.edu/ywp/. 

Continuing, Professional and Lifelong Learning is a program of Academic Technology and Outreach at MSU. ATO works across the university to support and advance its land-grant mission through unique and innovative opportunities for outreach and engagement. 

Community Education Activity Support & Enforcement (CEASE) Award funding allows Bozeman Municipal Court to research DUI citations
 
BOZEMAN, Montana (February 27, 2023) – Over the last three years, Bozeman Police Department has issued an average of 345 citations each year for Driving While Under the Influence. The Bozeman Municipal Court is exploring options to mitigate this significant public safety risk, and has been awarded a $7,000 CEASE Grant through the Gallatin County DUI Task Force to fund a part of the data-gathering process.

Efforts are beginning by researching information about the risk of re-offense and the needs of DUI Offenders. Information will then be used to develop programs and grant applications that may result in a DUI-specific court docket and a DUI Treatment Court. 
 
“Montana consistently has one of the highest DUI arrest rates and DUI fatalities in the nation, so this work is truly important for the safety of our community,” stated Renee Boundy, VETS Court Coordinator at the City of Bozeman. “We’re eager to see how we can tackle this issue differently in the courts so that everyone on the road is safer.”

 
A Driving While Under the Influence Docket would encourage people to complete their sentences and receive needed treatment. DUI Treatment Court would provide increased supervision and support for serious misdemeanor DUI offenders with the greatest risk to reoffend. The first step in the research process would be determining the feasibility of these options by gathering data about current DUI offenders. 

 
Staff will apply for additional funding through the federal government this spring to start the DUI Treatment Court. If awarded, the DUI Court could start in early 2024.
 
Those seeking more information on Bozeman Municipal Court’s DUI research and potential programs can contact Renee Boundy at (406) 548-5950 or rboundy@bozeman.net.

On February 26, 2023, at 9:48 am, Gallatin County dispatch received a call from Madison County Sheriff’s Office requesting assistance for a rescue mission in the area of Circle Mountain for an individual who had fallen ill and was too exhausted to self-extricate.  Madison County had communication with the individual and was able to pass on coordinates and valuable information to Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue Big Sky Section, SAR Comms and Heli Team members responded to assist in getting the patient to medical care. Ground teams rode up Buck Ridge while the Heli Team flew directly to the area. The Heli Team was able to locate the patient, pick them up, and fly to a waiting Madison County Deputy for further assistance.

Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind winter recreationalist to travel with others when possible and be prepared for unexpected events when recreating. He also encourages recreationalists to have a fully charged cell phone or some other communication device in case of an emergency as the patient did in this case.

Photos courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.

GREAT FALLS – The permit lottery results to float Smith River State Park in 2023 are now available online on FWP’s website. In addition to the online results, successful applicants will be notified via email. Links within the email will allow permit holders to download and print their float permit, as well as access important and detailed information regarding their upcoming Smith River float. Permits are required to float the iconic 59-mile stretch of the Smith River, which is celebrated for its spectacular scenery, remote location and excellent trout fishing.

The number of applications received this year was down slightly from 2022, with 14,497 applicants who were awarded a total of 1,470 float permits for launch dates between April 1 and Oct. 31. Montana residents drew 902 float permits, while nonresidents drew 568 permits. Every date between April 1 and Aug. 21 had all available permits allocated. The Smith River is typically floatable from mid-April to mid-July.  

For applicants who were unsuccessful in the regular permit drawing, Smith River Super Permit chances are available through March 23 for $5 each. One Super Permit winner will be allowed to launch on any date of their choosing. Chances may be purchased at FWP’s online licenses service webpage. The Super Permit drawing will be held on March 29. 

Floaters may also call the Smith River Reservation and Information Line at 406-454-5861 beginning Monday, March 6, to request any remaining launch dates or canceled permits. The call line will be open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to noon.

Floaters should be aware of the following items this year:

• Floater registration will occur via phone, two days in advance of each scheduled launch date. In addition, the river rangers will assign a one-hour time interval for each float group to approach the boat ramp to launch.
• Camp Baker is now a day-use only site, with no overnight camping allowed, except for the period of Sept. 1 through Nov. 30.
• Pit toilets will continue to be provided in 2023 and floaters will not be required to pack-out human waste. Beginning in 2024, it is anticipated that mandatory human waste pack-out will be required.

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

New regulation increases possession limit for yellow perch  

HELENA – FWP’s Fish and Wildlife Commission has adopted a new regulation for yellow perch in Holter Reservoir near Helena. 

Effective immediately, the new regulation is 25 perch daily and 50 in possession. Previous regulations allowed both a daily and possession limit of 25 perch.   

Perch numbers in Holter Reservoir have increased over the past few years. The Upper Missouri River Reservoir Fisheries Management Plan guides Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to maximize fishing opportunities when yellow perch abundance increases above goal objectives in the plan. This is now the case with perch, and the rationale behind the regulation change.  

Taking your dog out for a day of exploration can be a rewarding and enriching experience for pet owners. After ensuring your pet is properly vaccinated and all necessary precautions are taken, you can embark on an exciting and memorable outing. Whether hiking down trails, taking a scenic drive through the country, or enjoying some time in the park with your pup, you'll create indelible memories and strengthen the unstoppable bond between you and your four-legged friend. When going out with your beloved canine companion, prepare to come across new sights and smells, enjoy opportunities to socialize with other pet owners, and deepen the connection that has made you family - all while having an absolute blast!

 
Here Are 5 Treats For Your Dogs On Their Day Out
 
Meaty Treats
Why not treat your beloved pup to something special? Give your furry friend the gift of delectable flavors with meaty treats on their day out! These treats are made from premium ingredients and provide an enjoyable experience for any dog.
 
The combination of delicious, natural flavors can excite any pup. These treats will tantalize their taste buds and give your furry companion a little extra burst of enthusiasm for their fun day in the park or at the beach. So why not show them your love and appreciation with some irresistible meaty treats on their next adventure?

 
Kibble
A day out with your furry friend is a great opportunity to provide them with healthy and nutritious food. Kibble offers the perfect solution - dog-friendly ingredients, varied flavor options, and simple preparation.
 
Not only will they love the taste, but it's also easy for you to bring along on every outing. Its air-dried texture locks in all the necessary vitamins and minerals to keep your pet healthy and full of energy for an enjoyable day out. Give your dog Kibble next time you go on an adventure!
 
Cheesy Snack
Spoil your pup with a delicious and nutritious treat they won't resist! A cheesy snack is a perfect way to reward them during playtime on their day out. Made with real cheese, this snack will make tails wag with delight and leave them as satisfied as a content pup should.
 
It's also packed with vitamins and minerals that help support your pup's overall health, so you can relax knowing they're getting the best nutrition. Give your dog something special to look forward to on their next play date, and grab a pack of cheesy snacks today.
 
Veggie Treats
Taking your dog out can be a great way to bond and explore the world together - but don't forget to bring some veggie treats along for the ride! Veggie treats can provide the same satisfying and guilt-free snacking that your pup loves without any added fat and calories in a traditional meat treat.
 
From seasoned carrots to apple slices, adding naturally sourced ingredients like these will make their day extra special as they explore all the new textures and flavors. So next time you take your pet on an adventure, remember those vegetable-based treats and a scratch behind their ear - they'll thank you for it!
 
Doggie Desserts
Treating your pampered pup to a delectable Doggie Desert is a great way to make their day extra special! These doggy-approved treats blend natural ingredients and flavors with crunchy texture for a delightful, tail-wagging yummy indulgence.
 
Whether you choose bite-sized biscuits in sweet or savory flavors or delicate, cheesy desserts, these delicacies are all crafted with the same care and attention you lavish on your furry best friend every day. Feeding dog treats from Doggie Desserts will make them feel extra spoiled - after all, every pup deserves only the very best.

 
Why Should You Buy Dog Treats Online?
Shopping for dog treats online from https://cbdfx.com/collections/cbd-for-pets/ offers convenience, a great selection of options, and often more value for your money. You can buy quality treats from specialty pet shops without leaving your home's comfort; you can even set up a recurring order so that you never run out of your pup's favorite snack.
 
Plus, since no shipping costs are involved when buying online, you can often get the same snacks at better prices than you would find in retail stores. With so many different flavors and varieties, shopping for treats online will surely please you and your pup.
 
Why Is It Essential To Give Treats To Your Dog While On A Day Out?
Taking your pup with you on an outdoor adventure can be so much fun, but it's also important to remember how essential treats are when you're out and about. Fetching a stick or returning after venturing too far off can be tiring for your furry 'friends,' and ensuring they're well-fed and hydrated helps immensely.

 
Having treats within reach can also help distract them from anything that might bother them, like a noisy siren or loud fireworks in the distance. Furthermore, treats are great rewards for tricks or good behavior; not only does this make the little ones feel appreciated, but it also strengthens your bond with them as their trust increases. All these reasons add up to why giving dogs treats is so important no matter where you are.
 
Wrapping Up
Bringing your pet dog treats while on a day out is always a good idea to reward them for their companionship and motivate them. It also shows that you care about their well-being and happiness. Treats will boost your pet's energy levels, improve their focus during walks, and provide balance when boredom sets in. However, it is essential to remember that treats should not make up the bulk of your pet's diet. They should be given occasional rewards or snacks when they deserve them while being mindful of potential allergic reactions. As long as you stick to healthy food options with natural ingredients and limit portion sizes accordingly, giving treats while on the town can be an enjoyable experience for you and your four-legged friend.

If you're considering taking out a car title loan, it's important to understand the details before signing any paperwork. Car title loans are secured loans that allow you to use your vehicle as collateral. These loans can be beneficial if you need quick access to cash, but they should be used with caution. Here are a few factors you need to know before taking out a car title loan.

How Do I Qualify?
Depending on your location, to qualify for car title loans in Montana, you must own the vehicle outright with no liens placed against it. You will also need proof of income and valid identification, such as a driver's license or state ID card. Additionally, some lenders may require additional information, such as insurance documents or registration papers for your vehicle.  

It's important to note that having bad credit does not necessarily disqualify you from obtaining a car title loan since these types of loans are secured by the value of your vehicle rather than your credit score. This is why borrowers need to know their vehicles' worth before entering into agreements with lenders to get the best terms possible.

The Risks Involved
The most obvious risk associated with taking out a car title loan is that if you default on payments, your vehicle could be repossessed by the lender to recoup their losses. Many lenders charge high interest rates and fees, making repaying the debt more difficult than anticipated and leaving borrowers in an even worse financial situation than when they began. For this reason, it is important for borrowers to carefully read all terms and conditions before signing any contracts or agreements with lenders, so they fully understand what they are getting into before committing themselves financially.  

Many lenders have been accused of predatory lending practices aimed at vulnerable consumers who may not fully understand what they are getting into when taking out these types of loans. It'sIt's important for borrowers to research potential lenders thoroughly and ensure they understand all terms and conditions before entering into any agreement, so they don't end up paying more than necessary in interest or fees over time.

What Are the Alternatives?
There are a variety of alternatives to car title loans that can help you get the cash you need without putting your vehicle at risk. One option is a personal loan from a bank or credit union, which can provide quick access to funds and generally have lower interest rates and fees than car title loans. These types of loans may require a higher credit score than car title loans but can still be an option for those with bad or no credit.
 
Another alternative is to take out a secured loan against an asset such as home equity, investments, or savings accounts. These loans can give borrowers access to funds and require less paperwork than traditional consumer loans since an asset secures them. These loans' interest rates and fees vary depending on the lender, but they are generally lower than car title loan rates.

 
If you need access to funds quickly, some lenders offer payday loans which can provide borrowers with a short-term loan, usually paid back within two weeks or less. These loans often come with very high-interest rates and fees, so it is essential to understand the terms before signing any agreement.
 
Car title loans can be a great way to access quick cash, but they should be used cautiously. Ultimately, it's up to each borrower to decide which option makes the most sense for them based on their financial needs and situation.