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.

Academic writing could be seen as the foundation for all types of writing. You can’t go through school without writing an essay or some report requiring sources.
 
It usually involves responding to a question posed by another person and having to answer with your opinion backed by facts to bolster your response. However, because academic writing tends to be very rigid, it can be challenging to incorporate flair while maintaining a particular voice.
 
However, there are a few tricks to help you upgrade your academic writing. Take a look at them below.

1. Manage Your Time Efficiently
Raise your hand if you’ve ever waited until the last minute to submit an assignment (don’t be ashamed). It’s a prominent occurrence in academic writing.
 
You feel like your best work comes when the pressure is on. However, although you’ve gotten away with it in the past, it might not bode well for higher education like a master's degree or Ph.D.
 
Writing an excellent academic paper requires you to use your time wisely. To do so, you’ll need to:

 
With adequate time management, you won’t have to worry about figuring out how to answer a complex question. You also won’t need to worry about the different ways you can hit the word count. With the help of the Word Counter and your notes, you’ll have a well-structured essay that meets all the requirements.


2. Read, Read, Read
Throughout your academic career, you’ll often hear people say that reading is fundamental to having a solid essay. Besides the fact that you’ll enhance your reading speed, vocabulary, and overall knowledge, it can also benefit your writing by:

 
Although academic writing follows a specific structure, there’s no limit to the tools you can add to your repertoire to enhance your skills.

3. Differentiate Your Sentence Structure
Yes, academic writing can sound robotic at times. But what you want to avoid is a paper with a monotonous tone all the way through. For example, if you were writing about the distance between the Sun and the Moon, this is how you don’t want your sentences to look:
 
“The Sun is far from the Moon. It will take you 30 billion light-years to get there. You will need a large supply of oxygen.”
 
As you can see, those sentences sound boring and won’t entice the reader to continue reading, even if the topic is engaging. Instead, here’s an example of what you could say to add a bit more flair to your essay:
 
“The Sun is approximately 30 billion light-years from the Moon, meaning you’ll need a large oxygen supply for the journey. However, since you’re in for the long haul, space debris might also be an issue.”
 
For the second example, the sentences were combined into one thought, and you were able to expand on it a bit further by talking about space debris. The additional details give the sentences more fluidity and make them easier for readers to enjoy.
 
Now that’s not saying that you should avoid short, choppy phrases all the time. But limit them where possible to make your writing more appealing.
 
4. Use An Active Voice
A critique you may have heard about your writing in the past is that most sentences are in passive voice. Do you know what that looks like? If not, here’s an example:
 
“Brenda was helped by the professor.”
 
It’s seen as a bad writing habit because it can make your writing seem weaker and dull. Instead, you should use an active voice to help it stand out. This is what it would look like:
 
“The professor helped Brenda.”
 
As you can see, an active voice makes the sentence more concise. While passive voice can be helpful sometimes, it would be better to use an active voice writing style to keep your reader engaged for the duration of the essay.

5. Proofread and Edit Thoroughly
Editing and proofreading can be quite the task because you’re reading over your work and looking for errors and potential changes. However, these suggestions can help your editing process:

ANACONDA – The parking lot at Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park will close for construction starting Monday, June 13.

The park will remain open during the project. Parking will be available along the road leading to the park. Visitors will still be able to access the exhibit, except while the wheelchair ramp is being replaced.

Visitors are encouraged to use caution when visiting the park during construction. The project is expected to be complete in early July.

Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park is about 2 miles southeast of Anaconda. For more information about the park, please visit fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/anaconda-smoke-stack.

HELENA – Going fishing soon? Don’t forget your camera. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks wants to feature your fun on the next fishing regulations booklet. With the recent changes to the fishing regulations process, your art will be in tackle kits and dry boxes for two years instead of one. Winners will see their work on the front and back cover of the 2023-24 fishing regulation booklet.

Think beyond the brag board. We’re looking for families having fun and interesting action shots. Help FWP show what diverse fishing opportunities can be found in Montana.

Photo contest:

• Photo must be vertical (portrait) mode, or suitable for tight vertical cropping to fit the available space on the regs cover.
• Photo must be a minimum resolution and size of 6 inches tall at 300 pixels-per-inch.
• FWP will feature your name on the front cover as credit. Please specify how you would like to be credited.
• Please include a short description of the photo, so we can provide some caption information.
• Ownership of the photo is retained by the photographer, who may use his/her image for other purposes.
• Please do not send photos of fish that have been mounted.
• Photo must be taken in Montana.

Art contest

• Kids 12 and younger are invited to submit a colored drawing of a fish that lives in Montana.

Please send in your best photo and drawing today! Email to fwpphotocontest@mt.gov. Deadline is Oct. 15.

Winners will receive their photo on the cover, a subscription to Montana Outdoors Magazine and a Montana Outdoors t-shirt.​

Go fish!