HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Licensing Bureau is soliciting proposals from conservation organizations that are interested in conducting a competitive auction or lottery for some 2023 licenses.

Licenses available for auction include bighorn sheep, Shiras moose, and mountain goat. Licenses available for auction or lottery include mule deer and elk.

The Montana Administrative Rules that apply to these licenses include eligibility requirements and can be found at https://rules.mt.gov/gateway/RuleNo.asp?RN=12%2E3%2E801.

All proposals must be submitted by July 15. Written proposals can be hand-delivered to the FWP Licensing Bureau at 1420 E. 6th Ave. in Helena; mailed to P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT, 59620; or emailed to devon.boone@mt.gov. Large proposals or proposals with sensitive information can be sent via the state of Montana file transfer service found at https://transfer.mt.gov/Home/Login.

Montana’s Fish and Wildlife Commission will select the conservation organizations to conduct the auctions and lottery at its meeting on Aug. 25. Organizations submitting proposals are encouraged to attend the meeting. Selected organizations and individuals will be required to complete a cooperative agreement with FWP prior to auctioning any licenses.

Dealing with pain – especially any kind of chronic – can feel incredibly debilitating and make daily living life quite difficult.

For many people, it is often the case that they deal with this kind of pain by using (and in some cases over-using) over-the-counter medicines such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

While these medicines can undoubtedly serve as effective pain relievers, consumers should know that by using these medications for an extended period, they can encounter some detrimental side effects – as in the case of liver problems and, in some cases, addiction.

That said, there is a solution – turning to natural ways to relieve pain. Some of the ways that people have traditionally turned to natural ways to relieve pain include using essential oils, herbs, and alternative therapies as part of their strategy to address pain.

While there isn’t any conclusive research on this, there is enough evidence to suggest that these remedies and therapies have helped many people – and that natural remedies more generally help people address pain.

Below, we explore five things you should know about the topic of natural pain relief.

Essential Oils Do Help

For an extended period, many people have turned to essential oils to help them deal with pain.

For example, some research suggests that consumers can extract oils from natural plants such as peppermint to address pain as this plant has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and pain-relieving properties.

This is because peppermint plants have active compounds that include carvacrol, menthol, and limonene. Therefore, to address pain in its wide varieties, peppermint essential oil can be diluted and used as a topical treatment that is then rubbed in the localized area where the pain exists.

According to 2015 studies, this essential oil is known to relieve arthritis, painful spasms, and tension headache pain (by rubbing the oil on the temples and forehead).

That said, experts caution that users should avoid putting peppermint oil on broken skin as it can lead to allergic reactions and irritation.

Another great essential oil to make use of to secure pain relief, ease anxiety and serve as a sleep aid is lavender oil.

According to a 2012 study, inhaling lavender oil can also address any pain associated with migraine headaches.

This is because lavender oil has pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. That said, like peppermint oil, users should exercise caution as it can be toxic if used directly.

And so, as a practice, experts recommend that people dilute it using a carrier oil if they are applying it topically – and, of course, never ingest it.

Another great oil to use is eucalyptus oil which can reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation in the body when inhaling it.

That said, experts caution that eucalyptus oil should not be used around children, pets, or public more generally as it can trigger asthma.

And when applying it topically, it is always wise to first do a spot check to ensure there won’t be an allergic reaction.

Spices and Roots Address Pain

Many do not know that if they are looking to deal with pain naturally, a great place to start is to go into your kitchen and find the spices and roots in your cupboards and fridge.

Two such examples are ginger and clove. This root is known to be a natural pain reliever in the case of ginger.

According to a 2015 study, experts found that ingesting 2 grams of ginger daily led to a modest reduction in muscle pain, accelerated recovery, and reduced inflammation – especially among those who engaged in rigorous exercise.

While you can undoubtedly build ginger into your diet by using supplements, you might just want to begin by adding raw ginger as a fresh ingredient to smoothies or teas.

In the case of cloves, people have historically used this spice to relieve pain from toothache. But, according to a 2006 study, experts agree that clove gel can be just as effective as benzocaine gel – that is, the topical gel used by dentists to reduce needle pain when getting any kind of minor dental surgery.

Experts agree that while more research is needed, it appears that cloves can be a great natural stand-in to address pain as cloves have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiviral activity.

Correct Your Posture

Would you believe that slouching – which leads to poor posture – can cause tremendous strain and pain in your back and neck.

When using Hempvana Straight 8, it has become clear that this item provides pain relief and helps you stand taller so that you are not slouching.

As a result, Hempvana Reviews have expressed excitement over the ability to stand straight and feel better with help from Hempvana Straight 8 training tool.

In addition to the pain relief it provides, Hempvana Straight 8 is discreet – that is, you can wear it underneath your clothing, and this one-size-fits-most training tool has fully adjustable straps and works on all body types.

Acupuncture

Another strategy to deal with natural pain is to turn to acupuncture. According to The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), this alternative therapy is excellent at reducing low back pain, neck pain, knee pain, tension headaches, osteoarthritis, musculoskeletal pain, and more generally.

Turmeric  

Finally, turmeric – which is also considered a spice – is also great at relieving pain. According to a 2014 study, turmeric is considered as effective as ibuprofen in managing pain and reducing inflammation.

Many use it as a natural ingredient by adding it to their curries, smoothies, or juices.

HELENA – Flooding is impacting many areas of the state prompting Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to close or restrict access at several sites in southwest and northwest Montana.

“Right now, our focus is on keeping people safe and helping out with emergency operations where we can,” said FWP Director Hank Worsech. “We’ll open sites and ease restrictions as soon as it’s safe to do so.”

On Monday, after working closely with Park County officials, FWP closed the upper stretch of the Yellowstone River to all recreational use. On Tuesday, the closure from Springdale Bridge Fishing Access Site (FAS) upstream to the Yellowstone National Park boundary was still in effect. Most of the fishing access sites downstream of Springdale Bridge to the confluence with the Bighorn River are closed to motorized access.

Additionally, several fishing access sites on tributaries to the Yellowstone River in that area are either closed or access is restricted.

In northwest Montana, flooding on the Flathead River has prompted the closure of Old Steel Bridge FAS in Evergreen and restricted access to the Pressentine FAS and Kokanee Bend FAS. Access may be limited at additional public sites in the area as river levels rise.

“It’s critical that people take these closures seriously,” Worsech said. “This is no time to be taking risks around these rivers. Our staff will continue to work closely with local officials and emergency responders to help keep the public safe.”

FWP provides a complete list of restrictions and closures online. You can also follow FWP on social media for updates: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

HELENA – Hunters interested in participating in game damage hunt opportunities need to register online for the Hunt Roster beginning Wednesday, June 15, through MyFWP. The roster is used by Fish, Wildlife & Parks to quickly respond to landowners who are eligible for game damage assistance in the prevention or reduction of property or crop damage primarily caused by deer, elk and/or antelope. 

New this year, hunters can register to be placed on a bison game damage roster. The Fish and Wildlife Commission approved the addition at its February meeting and set the quota at 10 bison in Region 3. Occasionally, a bison is found outside of the authorized hunting season and outside of the bison tolerance zone. FWP is compiling a list of interested hunters to call for quick removal of the animal. These hunts could be during the warmer months of summer and will require quickly field dressing the animal with a team of people armed with the appropriate tools. For more information about bison hunting, click here.

To register, hunters can log into their MyFWP account or click “look up draw results, register for lists” within the menu. Then select a preferred hunting district(s) for potential deer, elk, antelope, and bison damage hunts and submit. Hunters are asked to sign up for districts where they know the landscape and can respond quickly to game damage issues typically within 24 to 48 hours.

The Hunt Roster sign-up closes July 15, and a randomly generated list will be created from the online registrations and will be posted to MyFWP accounts by July 20.

FWP will contact hunters if they are selected for a damage hunt opportunity via phone and/or email, so hunters are asked to ensure they have accurate contact information in their licensing profile. FWP may also utilize other means of hunter selection in lieu of the Hunt Roster, including first-come, first-served advertised opportunities, unsuccessful special license or permit applicant lists or lists of names supplied by landowners depending upon each damage situation. For more details on the FWP game damage assistance program visit: https://fwp.mt.gov/conservation/landowner-programs/game-damage-program

                                                                                                          photo KBZK click for more
Flooding observed across much of Montana

HELENA – Following conversations with officials in Park County, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has closed the Yellowstone River in Park County to all recreational use due to public safety risks caused by extremely high water levels, endangered and failing infrastructure, flooded and impassible access roads, and limited availability of search and rescue resources.

All fishing access sites on the Yellowstone River in Park County are also closed from the Yellowstone National Park boundary to Springdale Bridge Fishing Access Site.

Most fishing access sites below Springdale Bridge downstream to Captain Clark Fishing Access Site near the Bighorn River confluence are closed to motorized vehicle access. The situation is evolving so please observe all posted closures. Refer to the FWP website for current list of closures.

Closures will be strictly enforced.

Closures are also in effect for several other sites managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks:

• All Jefferson River fishing access sites from Cardwell Bridge down to Missouri Headwaters State Park
• Portions of Missouri Headwaters State Park
• All Gallatin River fishing access sites
• All East Gallatin River fishing access sites

Many of the fishing access sites on these waters are closed to motorized access:

• Boulder River
• Rock Creek (tributary to the Yellowstone River)
• Stillwater River
• Clark’s Fork of the Yellowstone River

Refer to the FWP website for current list of closures and restrictions. Site closures in other areas of the state may be put in place as flooding occurs. FWP will work to reopen closed areas as soon as conditions allow.

Flooding poses significant safety hazards, especially to recreationists. High water levels and related river hazards can appear and evolve without warning. Recreationists can avoid accidents and injury to themselves and others by observing all safety closures and avoiding other areas with high flows.

Accessories are not just for women. Men can rock stylish accessories that exude confidence and masculine energy that will keep heads turning your way. It’s not just about adding accessories to your look, it’s about finding the right accessory to compliment your vibe and your style on elevating your fashion. From a Cuban link chain necklace to a leather belt that perfectly matches your shoes, read on to learn which accessories are a must-have in your closet.

Chains

Men can rock stylish jewelry just as much as women can. The best accessory to do that? Chains. From chain necklaces to chain bracelets, tons of styles, lengths, and finishes easily complement and elevate your look.

Typically in gold or silver finishes, chain necklaces come in various kinds and lengths to choose from. Cuban link chains feature oval-shaped rings interlock for a sleek pattern that lays flat. The timeless Figaro chain links two or three small circular links followed by one elongated oval link and lays flat on the chest or wrist.

Chain accessories can be layered to create a stylish look. This accessory is also versatile and can easily be dressed up or down to fit whichever fashion look you choose.

Wristbands

If chains are a bit too flashy for your taste but you’re still into the idea of jewelry as an accessory, wristbands are the way to go. Wristbands are typically made with a leather material that’s braided, layered, and sometimes features metal beads to add some masculine energy.

This type of accessory is lightweight and adds just the right amount of flair without looking too overdone. It’s perfect for casual wear and adds a touch of edginess to your look. In addition, wristbands are often a low-cost option for male accessories. So if you don’t have much money to spend on accessories but still want to elevate your look, this is an excellent way to do it.

Watch

A watch is a must-have accessory for men. Watches are classic, and even though you can check the time on your smartphone easily, it doesn’t take away the elegance of a wristwatch. Timepieces are made in many different materials depending on your lifestyle, so it’s easy to find a watch that fits your fashion style.

If you’re into sportier looks, a leather-banded watch pairs well with any outfit. If you like a flashier, a gold, silver, or platinum watch is sure to draw the eye. They can be styled with any look.

Sunglasses

If you’re still holding on to a pair of sunglasses you found at a convenience store that you bought out of sheer necessity, it’s time to level up. Of course, sunglasses are a must, but that doesn't mean they don’t have to be fashionable and complement your style.

Sunglasses make an excellent last-minute addition to any outfit, and many styles can suit you. If you like a bold, classic look, wayfarers are perfect. If you need something lightweight, aviators are the way to go.

When shopping for sunglasses, it’s best to aim for quality instead of searching for something based on cost. Sunglasses tend to take a beating. Find a pair that will last whether you’re wearing them during watersports or just hanging out at the beach.

Belts

Yes, belts are considered an accessory, and you likely already have a closet with a few belts. But are you fashionably wearing them or just as a matter of necessity? You can easily elevate any look by perfecting your fashion skills with the right belt accessory tips.

The general rule of thumb is to match your belt to your boots to maintain a sleek, stylish appearance. For example, wear a black belt with black shoes and a brown belt with brown shoes. You can match your belt to your watch or another accessory for colors in between. You can match the buckle or the belt for this step.

Adding or perfecting any of these accessories will elevate your look and give you a more stylish and fashionable appearance. So play around with accessories you already have in your closet and slowly add more to your day-to-day looks to look confident as ever.

The Gallatin County Sherriff's office would like the public to know that rivers in the area are high and reaching flood levels. This water is moving very fast, is very cold, has large amounts of debris, and is extremely dangerous. Please stay away from the water! If you must be near it, wear a personal floatation device and be aware of your footing. Do not attempt to drive through moving water. Do not drive over bridges that may be compromised. Please exercise caution and call or text 911 if you have an emergency.

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Pictured: House Rock 6/13/22 morning

LIVINGSTON – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking comments on an environmental assessment for a proposed project to conserve native Yellowstone cutthroat trout in the upper Shields River watershed.

The proposal includes removing brook trout, which invaded the upper Shields River watershed in recent decades and have become a primary threat to headwater populations of Yellowstone cutthroat trout. The project area is a stronghold for a core conservation population of Yellowstone cutthroat trout at high elevation and the northernmost extent of their range.

FWP is proposing to remove the brook trout within the project area using a plant-derived fish toxicant called rotenone. Rotenone is routinely used in fisheries management and breaks down quickly in the aquatic environment. It offers an effective means of eradicating fish species that are incompatible with the management goals of a fishery without endangering the surrounding habitat.

FWP staff have scheduled a virtual public meeting over Zoom for June 16 at 5:30 p.m. to offer more information and answer questions about the project. Information on joining the Zoom webinar will be posted online prior to the meeting at go.usa.gov/xJnkp.

Comments on the environmental assessment will be accepted until 5 p.m. on June 23. Comments can be submitted by email to fwprg3@mt.gov or by mail to the following address:

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
R-3 Fisheries
Upper Shields River Yellowstone cutthroat trout conservation
1400 S. 19th Ave.
Bozeman, MT 59718

BOZEMAN — In celebration of its 50th season, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks has announced its summer tour season, which will open in Bozeman with performances of “King Lear” June 15-18 and “Twelfth Night” June 22-25.  

This summer, the troupe will travel nearly 7,000 miles throughout Montana, North Dakota Wyoming, Idaho and Washington. All performances are free and open to the public. 

According to Kimberly Helms, MSIP general manager, this is the first time the troupe will perform “Lear” and added audiences will discover the magic of famed English playwright William Shakespeare through a progressive and inclusive lens where people from all walks of life are connected through stories and the performances.  

“We couldn’t be more excited to be back on the road performing for audiences and inspiring everyone with a passion for Shakespeare’s greatest works,” said Kevin Asselin, MSIP executive artistic director. “It’s going to be a remarkable 50th season, where audiences can discover these magical tales of tragedy and love for themselves.” 

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks is an outreach program of Montana State University’s College of Arts and Architecture. The organization says it was founded on the firm belief that Shakespeare belongs to everyone, and the accomplished company of performers and staff connect people, communities and the arts, while spreading messages of unity and understanding. 

BIG SKY – Two people received relatively minor injuries Wednesday in a surprise close encounter with a moose in Big Sky.

A group of seven people were walking between Turkey Leg and Sitting Bull roads at Big Sky Resort at about 10 a.m. when they were charged by a cow moose. Two people in the group, a woman and a man received relatively minor injuries.

A game warden with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks responded and interviewed several people who had previously seen a cow moose, and a calf in the area recently. It’s likely the moose was acting in defense of the calf, which is normal. FWP staff will monitor moose activity in this area, but no further management action is planned at this time.

Moose are common in southwest Montana and can be defensive and dangerous in surprise close encounters with people or dogs. This is especially true of cow moose with calves. Keep these precautions in mind to avoid negative encounters with moose:

Be aware of your surroundings and be especially careful around creeks and in areas with dense brush.

Travel in groups whenever possible and make noise to alert animals to your presence.
If you encounter a moose, give it lots of space and don’t approach it. Always keep dogs under control.

If a moose charges or chases you, take cover behind something solid, such as a tree.
In some situations, bear spray has been known to be an effective defense tool in moose encounters.