On July 2, 2024, at 8:51 PM Gallatin County Dispatch received a call from a hiker in need of assistance. The hiker had been trail running with a group when they injured their leg. The hiker provided his location indicating he was close to the top of Baldy Mountain. The hiker indicated they were in a group with three other individuals who were assisting them down the mountain.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue volunteers from the Valley Section responded to the “M” trailhead. Search and Rescue volunteers from the Valley section deployed three teams up the trail carrying various medical gear, warm clothing, and a one-wheel litter. Volunteers contacted the hiker on the ridge above the M. After loading the hiker into the litter and providing the group with warm clothing, they escorted the group back to the trail head. The injured hiker was taken to Bozeman Health Deaconess Regional Medical Center by a member of his group in a personal vehicle.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to commend the hikers for having packing sufficient food and water supplies as well as having communication devices. Early activation with a direct way of contact not only provided our teams with an accurate location, but the patient was also able to relay information about what happened and injury details. This type of information can expedite rescue and ensures our crews have all necessary supplies, resulting in a faster and more efficient rescue.

BOZEMAN – A regional technology hub focused on photonics and smart sensors, of which Montana State University is a founding member, will receive a $41 million federal grant to help create tech jobs across Montana.

The grant to Montana’s Headwaters Regional Technology and Innovation Hub comes from the Economic Development Administration, a part of the U.S. Department of Commerce. It’s one of 12 grants totaling $504 million awarded to tech hubs across the country.

In October, the EDA named Montana a Regional Technology and Innovation Hub. It was one of 31 such designations across the nation and aims to promote growth by strengthening the region’s capacity to build, commercialize and deploy critical technologies.

As part of the designation, MSU joined a statewide consortium of companies; state, local and tribal governments; regional economic development organizations; and other academic institutions to develop the Headwaters Tech Hub. The hub’s goals are to accelerate the timeline from product introduction to market adoption, foster businesses that can compete and thrive in the global market, and help prepare Montanans to enter the region’s expanding tech workforce.

Alison Harmon, MSU’s vice president for research and economic development, noted that MSU’s faculty and staff are leaders in smart photonic sensor systems, which is the core technology for the Headwaters hub.

“Montana State has more than three decades of research and graduate education in optics and photonics, and that expertise has nurtured the growth of a strong photonics industry that has spawned many companies and, importantly, jobs in the Gallatin Valley,” Harmon said. “MSU is excited to be an important part of this grant and to take the next steps in advancing these technologies in fields such as autonomous cars and precision agriculture.”

“This is an incredible opportunity for Montana State University’s top-tier research enterprise and longstanding expertise to help deepen the state’s technology economy, provide critical technologies for our nation, and promote strong, good-paying careers for our graduates,” said MSU President Waded Cruzado. “Our students, who will be the next leaders of Montana’s industries, will benefit tremendously from the opportunities this grant will provide.”

“Montana’s universities are playing a key role in developing the technologies that will shape our future. In recent years, we have been national leaders in the growth of university research, which enriches our students' education and leads directly to new business and jobs in Montana,” said Montana Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian. “Our MUS institutions have been a dedicated partner with the Headwaters Tech Hub and look forward to achieving new levels of national and global importance for Montana, that will transform fields ranging from agriculture to national defense to resource management. I couldn’t be more pleased with the Tech Hub’s success.”

“Through the Tech Hubs program, we are maintaining our competitive edge by advancing America’s leadership in commercializing critical emerging tech sectors,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo in a press release announcing the national funding. “And we’re leveraging the diverse talent and resources that currently exist across the country to achieve this goal.”

The new $41 million grant will go toward implementing projects that include creating technology testbeds in rugged terrain, precision agriculture and roadway settings, increasing four-year degree opportunities in related fields and training skilled workers, including helping Indigenous students find pathways to careers in smart-sensing. Smart-sensing is the use of lasers and imaging systems with computer chips and intelligent algorithms to detect any number of things, from the quality of grains to unseen and unwanted methane emissions.

The Tech Hub program is a result of the federal CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. Montana’s U.S. Sen. Jon Tester secured an important provision in that law to ensure the Tech Hubs program included rural states, which paved the way for Montana to be included. Montana U.S. Sen. Steve Daines was a co-sponsor of the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act of 2021, also known as the Endless Frontier Act, which became the CHIPS and Science Act.

MSU’s research on lasers and other optical tools goes back to the 1980s and has helped spin off dozens of local companies, including some now making sensors for guiding self-driving trucks, mapping invasive weeds and more. Those and related technologies could allow for drones suited to applications in agriculture, self-driving farming machinery and other tools that could benefit rural communities, said Joseph Shaw, distinguished professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in MSU’s Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering and a member of the Montana consortium team.

“MSU’s decades of research and investment in optical technologies has put the campus on the optics and photonics map,” said Shaw, who also directs the university’s Optical Technology Center, or OpTeC. “This new grant will not only help make Montana a hub of these technologies but also will also help companies and potential students answer the question of where to go when they want to learn about optics and smart photonic sensors: Montana State University.”

Montana State University has previously received funding as part of the federal CHIPS and Science Act. In May 2023, the university announced that it had received two grants from the National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines Program, another CHIPS-funded program focused on catalyzing partnerships to positively impact regional economies, accelerate technology development, address societal challenges, advance national competitiveness and create local, high-wage jobs.

The first of those two grants funded research by MSU and its partners into how the region can position itself as a leader in quantum technology, which is set to play a critical role in 21st century communications, computing and other related fields. The university is already part of the MonArk Quantum Foundry, supported by a $20 million NSF grant in 2021 focused on developing the specialized materials needed for quantum devices.

The second Engines grant will let MSU, as part of a project led by the University of North Dakota, explore ways to leverage its expertise in photonics to grow a regional economy for autonomous systems, such as self-driving cars and drones for precision agriculture.

Recovery from addiction is a difficult journey, often filled with challenges that can test even the most determined individuals. One of the most significant hurdles in addiction recovery is dealing with intense cravings that can threaten to derail progress and lead to relapse. As researchers and clinicians continue to explore innovative approaches to support addiction recovery, Brainspotting has emerged as a promising tool for addressing cravings and promoting lasting healing.

Brainspotting is a newer therapy technique that is getting attention for its potential to help individuals deal with trauma and emotional distress. But Brainspotting's applications extend beyond trauma treatment, showing particular promise in aiding addiction recovery. By focusing on the deep neural pathways linked to addiction and cravings, Brainspotting may offer a unique approach to managing one of the most challenging aspects of recovery.

Does Brainspotting Work?

In 2003, Dr. David Grand introduced Brainspotting as a therapeutic technique. Brainspots refer to specific eye positions that correlate with stored traumatic memories or intense emotions.

Brainspotting is rooted in the neuroplasticity principle, enabling the brain to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. Brainspotting accesses the deeper brain regions, including the limbic system and brainstem, where trauma and intense emotions are often stored.

In a Brainspotting session, the therapist guides the client to a specific Brainspot that links to their emotional or physiological response. The traumatic memory or intense emotion is linked to the Brainspot, the specific eye position, in the brain. Focusing on this Brainspot allows the brain to process and release traumas or emotions.

How Does Brainspotting Address Addiction Recovery?

Brainspotting uses the connection between our emotional experiences, subconscious mind, and visual field to function effectively. In addiction recovery, specific eye positions can mirror the neural networks linked to cravings, traumatic recollections, and emotional conditions leading to addictive actions. Brainspotting accesses subcortical regions like the limbic system and brainstem to tackle addictive tendencies at their roots.

Those with substance use disorders often suffer from unresolved trauma or emotional wounds. Brainspotting can help reduce the dependence on substances for managing past experiences. This therapy enhances the recognition of the intricate link between thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations, essential for controlling cravings. Brainspotting may effectively bypass cognitive defenses in therapy through a focus on eye positions instead of verbal processing.

How Brainspotting Addresses Cravings

Cravings arise from a combination of psychological and physiological factors. Through focused eye positions, Brainspotting can help identify specific cues that lead to cravings. Identifying specific visual fields associated with craving sensations becomes possible, allowing for more targeted interventions. Brainspotting helps decrease the strength and frequency of cravings by addressing associated emotions.

This therapy can promote the development of new neural pathways and reduce the sway of addictive connections. Using Brainspotting, individuals can improve their ability to regulate themselves and effectively manage cravings. 

What Are the Benefits of Integrating Brainspotting with Other Addiction Treatment Programs?

Brainspotting, when combined with other evidence-based treatments, demonstrates greater potential in managing cravings. The combination of Brainspotting and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps individuals manage cravings by teaching adaptive strategies and addressing emotional and cognitive triggers of addiction. Combining mindfulness with Brainspotting enhances awareness of cravings and facilitates a non-judgmental observation of thoughts and emotions. 

Brainspotting complements Medication-Assisted Treatment by addressing the psychological aspects of addiction and supporting individuals in their recovery. Comprehensive treatment facilities like Next Step Recovery offer Brainspotting therapy as part of their addiction treatment programs. These specialized centers provide a supportive environment for individuals to address their addiction and cravings, utilizing Brainspotting as a valuable tool in their recovery journey. 

Participating in group therapy and individual Brainspotting sessions provides mutual support and opportunities to practice new skills in social settings. An integrated approach encompasses various aspects of addiction recovery for a comprehensive treatment plan.

Advantages of Brainspotting in Addiction Recovery

Brainspotting offers several potential advantages for individuals in addiction recovery:

Rapid Processing 
Many clients report experiencing significant shifts in their emotional state and craving intensity relatively quickly with Brainspotting, potentially accelerating the healing process.

Non-Verbal Processing 
For individuals who struggle with verbalizing their experiences or emotions, Brainspotting provides a non-verbal avenue for processing trauma and addiction-related issues.

Client-Centered Approach 
The therapy allows clients to take an active role in their healing process, as they are encouraged to follow their internal experience and guide the therapist to relevant eye positions.

Flexibility in Application 
Brainspotting can be adapted to various settings and integrated with other therapeutic approaches, making it a versatile tool in addiction treatment.

Potential for Long-Lasting Results
By addressing the root causes of addiction and rewiring neural pathways, Brainspotting may offer more sustainable results in managing cravings and preventing relapse.

Considerations and Limitations of Brainspotting 

While Brainspotting shows promise, it's important to note some considerations:

Individual Responses Vary: As with any therapy, individual responses to Brainspotting can vary. What works for one person may not work for another.

Qualified Practitioners: It's essential to work with a therapist properly trained in Brainspotting techniques.

Emotional Intensity: Brainspotting can bring up intense emotions. It's important to have proper support in place when undergoing this therapy.

Ongoing Research: While many practitioners report positive results, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effectiveness of Brainspotting for addiction cravings.

FAQs:

How long does it typically take to see results from Brainspotting in addiction recovery? 

While individual experiences vary, many people report feeling some relief from cravings after just a few sessions. However, a full course of treatment typically involves multiple sessions over several weeks or months for more comprehensive and lasting results.

Can Brainspotting be done remotely or does it require in-person sessions? 

While in-person sessions are often preferred, Brainspotting can be adapted for remote therapy sessions using video conferencing. The effectiveness of remote sessions may vary, and the decision to use telehealth should be made in consultation with a qualified therapist.

Conclusion

Brainspotting proves to be a promising tool in the battle against addiction, offering a different approach to addressing the persistent challenge of cravings. By targeting the neurobiological roots of addiction and processing underlying trauma, this therapy offers a way to more effective and lasting recovery.

The integration of Brainspotting with traditional addiction treatment modalities offers a complete method that covers all aspects, addressing both the psychological and physiological aspects of substance use disorders. As research in this field continues to evolve, Brainspotting is poised to become an increasingly valuable component of addiction recovery programs.

Forest firefighters face immense risk and dangerous challenges on the job. In order to limit the level of risk, these brave individuals require special, flame resistant clothing that can shield them from direct flame and flying embers. One essential item is green brush pants, which are designed to shield them from heat while ensuring comfort. Additionally, firefighters wear gear like fire helmets and yellow fire shirts for similar protection. This specialized clothing is crucial for helping wildland firefighters perform their duties in hot or adverse weather conditions. In the next section, we'll explore some of these items in detail, including their uses and unique safety features.

4 Essential Clothing for Firefighters

As extreme weather events become more common, putting immense strain on emergency personnel, preventing heat stress is critical. While we can’t eliminate the inherent dangers of firefighting, equipping firefighters with flame-resistant (FR) gear that prioritizes protection and heat management offers a crucial preventative step toward keeping them safe.

Here are four essential items of wildland forest firefighting clothing firefighters must be aware of:

1.    Fire Resistant Apparel

Battling blazes requires intelligent clothing choices. The right fire-resistant (FR) apparel keeps you cooler and minimizes heat absorption. Look for gear that adheres to NFPA 1977 standards – it should be durable, FR, and ditch the synthetics that melt. Before heading out, inspect your clothes for rips, tears, oil, or gas stains. Optimal FR garments include the following:

●      Pants: Opt for loose-fitting, cuffless styles that allow movement and prevent embers from snagging. Wear them over boots for extra ember protection. Reinforced knees are essential for kneeling on rough terrain. Large cargo pockets offer better accessibility for frequently used items.

●      Shirt: Long-sleeved FR shirts are a must. Ensure a snug fit at the wrists and collar to keep embers out.

●      Belts: Choose wide leather or nylon belts. Nylon is a good option for its durability against wear and tear.

●      Underwear: Many firefighters rely on their undergarments as a second layer. Wool socks are ideal as they minimize chafing and wick away moisture, keeping your feet cooler.

2. Boots

Traversing treacherous landscapes and battling unforgiving elements are hallmarks of a wildland firefighter's job. Proper footwear is essential to conquering these challenges comfortably and safely. Here is what defines a great pair of wildland firefighting boots:

★     Leather Construction: Leather offers superior heat resistance, unlike plastic or rubber, that melts near flames.

★     Durable Lacing: Leather or rawhide laces hold safer against heat, unlike synthetic options that might melt.

★     Eight-Inch Height: This optimal height provides ankle support on uneven terrain.

★     Waxed Linen Stitching: Forget synthetic threads that melt – waxed linen stitching offers superior heat tolerance.

★     Grippy Soles: Slippery surfaces are no match for skid-resistant soles that ensure safe footing.

★     Chainsaw Protection (Optional): Choose cut-resistant boots for added safety if chainsaw use is involved.

Remember, comfort is key. Break in your boots before a fire to avoid blisters, and wear double socks – a thin cotton inner layer and a thicker wool outer layer – for optimal comfort and protection.

3.    Gloves

Essential to Wildland Forest Firefighting Clothing are wildland gloves. These gloves balance dexterity, protection, and comfort.  These firefighters rely on their hands for everything from welding tools and deploying fire suppression tactics to clearing brush for better maneuverability in rugged terrain. Protective gloves become essential with constant exposure to sharp objects and scorching heat. A reliable pair safeguards hands from the cuts, abrasions, burns, and other injuries common on the fire line. Look for gloves with long, fire-resistant cuffs to extend protection. Finally, consider a glove holder or utility clip for convenient storage and easy access during firefighting operations.

4.    Helmets

A wildland firefighter's worst enemy on the fire line? Falling debris. With trees and other hazards constantly raining down, head injuries are a major concern. A top-notch helmet is crucial to shield yourself from this danger.  Look for a helmet that prioritizes durability, a snug fit, and compliance with NFPA 1977 PPE standards – essential for optimal protection in the heart of a wildfire.

Conclusion

In recent years, there has been a surge in wildfires across the US, with numbers exceeding 40,000, and heatwaves like the recent one in the Midwest only promise more. Therefore, Wildland Forest Firefighting Clothing is a life-saving investment in heavily regulated, purpose-built safety equipment. However, don’t be fooled by the hefty price tag of a fully equipped uniform. While a basic uniform might cost around $650-$2,000, the additional essentials like fire shelters, canteens, hearing protection, and sunscreen push the total cost upwards. Remember, this specialized gear is designed to prevent serious injuries or even death in the face of extreme dangers.

BOZEMAN — As the City approaches one year since Ordinance 2147 Regulating Camping in the Right-of-Way was passed, and in light of today’s Supreme Court ruling on the City of Grants Pass v. Johnson case, the City of Bozeman is planning a work session for the Aug. 6 Commission meeting to evaluate the ordinance. Ordinance 2147 was passed in October 2023 and set the time, place, and manner conditions in which people could camp in the right-of-way.

“We look forward to discussing Ordinance 2147 with the Commission on August 6 and how the Supreme Court’s decision factors into how we move forward,” said Chief Civil Attorney Anna Saverud.

Since 2018, municipalities in the 9th Circuit Court have been restricted on how they could regulate and manage the public right-of-way. Under this legal framework, Ordinance 2147 was adopted to address the impacts of camping in the right-of-way on city infrastructure and allowed for a safe way for those experiencing homelessness to stay on the street.

The Aug. 6 meeting will review the Supreme Court decision, reflect on city learnings, discuss changes and seek further guidance from the City Commission.

Those interested in providing public comment on this ordinance ahead of the meeting can email comments@bozeman.net. Public comment can also be given in person at the meeting or online via zoom.

BOZEMAN, Montana (June 27, 2024) — On June 4, City of Bozeman voters supported a study to change the form of their local government. Shortly after the election was certified, candidate filings opened for the five-seat Study Commission. Four candidates in Bozeman have already filed to fill the seat. The deadline for filing is Aug. 12 at the Gallatin County Elections office, located on the second floor of the Gallatin County Courthouse, 311 W Main Street.

“We are excited to see this interest in reviewing the form of our local government,” Mayor Terry Cunningham stated. “Bozeman residents are thoughtful, involved, and passionate about our community, and I have full confidence that those elected to this Study Commission will take their role seriously and bring forward helpful ideas we should all consider.”

Any registered Bozeman voter living in city limits is eligible to run for the study commission. The top 5 vote-getters in the Nov. 5 election will earn a seat on the Commission.

Once the five Study Commission members are elected, the group will decide when and how often they want to meet, and how they want to involve the public. All meetings will adhere to open meeting laws, so all will have the opportunity to watch and provide public comment at any of their meetings online and in person.

The group is charged with researching options for changing the form of Bozeman’s government and will work on a proposal for the public to vote on by November 2026 or earlier.

Those interested in viewing a list of candidates who have filed can visit www.gallatinvotes.com.

BILLINGS – Monday, alongside Wildlife Manager Brett Dorak, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Director Dustin Temple held a press conference to address the status of eastern Montana’s mule deer.

“Our job at FWP is to manage Montana’s wildlife resources by providing full contextual, transparent, accurate data with full context,” Director Temple said. “Across the state, we are making the effort to ensure our management of mule deer is based on the best science and data.”

FWP Director Dustin Temple discusses eastern Montana mule deer numbers at a Monday press conference in Billings.

FWP biologists have completed annual spring surveys. For Region 5, the numbers are below the long-term average but are trending higher. Quotas for B licenses are already at the low end of the approved quota, so there is no change. As for Region 6, where spring survey results are 16 percent below long-term average, FWP is reducing B licenses by 54 percent. Lastly, Region 7 spring survey results show an increase of 20 percent over the last year, but total numbers are still 40 percent below long-term average. Just like Region 5, B licenses are already at the minimum of the approved quota range, so there is no B license change.

“Improved weather and habitat conditions across eastern Montana had led to increased fawn ratios observed this spring in eastern Montana and some increases in total mule deer observed, as well,” FWP Region 7 Wildlife Manager Brett Dorak said. “Currently though, most mule deer populations are below their long-term average.”

FWP Wildlife Manager Brett Dorak discusses trends in mule deer numbers across regions in eastern Montana at a press conference Monday in Billings.

A few other major changes to this year’s hunting season regarding mule deer are:

• Antlerless mule deer in Regions 6 and 7 can only be harvested on private property this coming fall, which is a change from years past.
• Beginning in the 2024 hunting season, only antlered buck mule deer may be harvested with a General Deer License in all Region 5 hunting districts. In six of the 10 Region 5 deer and elk hunting districts, youth hunters aged 10-15 may harvest either sex mule deer with a General Deer License.
• Nonresidents may only purchase one Deer B License unless they drew a combo, which allows them to purchase two total. Before this year, nonresident hunters could purchase up to seven Deer B Licenses.

Decade snapshot of Montana mule deer population

These graphs show mule deer populations trends along with Mule Deer B License sale trends for the same regions.

Mule deer populations across eastern Montana are somewhat variable in their trends. The three main drivers for mule deer populations are weather, habitat and disease. Mule deer populations across eastern Montana have decreased mainly due to unfavorable weather patterns with multiple years of extreme drought conditions and some hard winter. Drought conditions have had major impacts on habitat for mule deer. In response to mule deer population decreases, FWP has decreased B licenses in eastern Montana and in some cases to historically low quota numbers. More specifically, Region 7 has decreased B licenses by 91 percent over the past couple years, and Region 6 had recently decreased their B licenses by 54 percent in response to mule deer numbers.

The reason behind our work

Alexis Turner, a 13-year-old Billings middle schooler, also joined the director at the podium to share her own Montana mule deer experience. As an avid hunter, Alexis has been hunting since she was 10. Her first mule deer was a beautiful five-point buck. With excitement in her voice, she perfectly represented the purpose behind FWP’s work.

“After a 320-yard shot, I shot my first mule deer in the heart,” Alexis said. “Although it was a lot of work to get to the deer, it was a lot more work to get back to the truck. My heart was pounding, and I was very excited I made the shot.”

“This photo of Alexis and her first mule deer harvest is a perfect picture of how much our work means to the state of Montana,” Temple said. “We have a responsibility to do everything in our power to provide opportunities for memories like these.”

Family boating excursions offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, bond with loved ones, and create lasting memories on the water. Whether you're cruising along the coast, exploring hidden coves, or anchoring at your favorite fishing spot, there's no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy during your boating adventures. In this guide, I'll share some exciting outdoor activities to enhance your family boating experience and make the most of your time spent in the sun and surf.

Swimming and Snorkeling
Swimming and snorkeling are classic outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy during your boating excursions. Find a secluded cove or sandy beach to anchor your boat, and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Bring along snorkeling gear to explore vibrant underwater ecosystems, observe marine life, and discover hidden treasures beneath the surface. Remember to supervise children and inexperienced swimmers at all times, and choose safe swimming areas away from boat traffic and strong currents.

Fishing Adventures
Fishing is a timeless pastime that adds excitement and adventure to any family boating trip. Pack your fishing gear and bait, and head to your favorite fishing spot to cast your lines and reel in the catch of the day. Whether you're trolling for game fish offshore or dropping anchor in a quiet inlet, fishing offers endless opportunities for family bonding and friendly competition. Teach children basic fishing techniques and safety practices, and encourage them to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of nature while waiting for the big bite.

Beachcombing and Shell Collecting
Exploring pristine beaches and collecting seashells is a fun and educational activity for families of all ages. Anchor your boat near a sandy shoreline or deserted island, and set out on a beachcombing adventure to search for shells, sand dollars, and other treasures washed ashore. Encourage children to use their imagination and creativity to identify different types of shells and marine artifacts, and challenge them to find the most unique specimens to add to their collection. Remember to leave only footprints and take only memories, respecting the natural environment and preserving its beauty for future generations to enjoy.

Picnicking and Beach Barbecues
Enjoying a picnic or beach barbecue is a delightful way to refuel and relax during your family boating excursions. Pack a cooler with your favorite snacks, sandwiches, and beverages, and anchor your boat in a scenic spot with a picnic table or sandy beach. Set up a beach blanket or portable grill, and enjoy a leisurely meal together while soaking up the sun and savoring the fresh sea breeze. Bring along games and toys for children to play with, and take turns exploring the shoreline or swimming in the nearby waters between bites.

Wildlife Watching and Birdwatching
Boating offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife watching and birdwatching in their natural habitats. Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and other marine mammals as you cruise along the coastline or through mangrove channels. Bring along binoculars and a field guide to identify different species of birds, and challenge your family members to spot the most species during your boating trip. Take photos and keep a wildlife journal to document your sightings and learn more about the diverse ecosystems that thrive along the waterways.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Exploring coastal waterways by kayak or paddleboard is a fantastic way to get up close and personal with nature and experience the beauty of your surroundings from a different perspective. Bring along inflatable kayaks or paddleboards that are easy to transport and launch from your boat, and set out on a paddling adventure along scenic shorelines, mangrove tunnels, or tranquil estuaries. Encourage children to paddle alongside you and explore hidden coves and waterways, spotting wildlife and discovering secret hideaways along the journey.

Water Sports and Tubing
For families seeking a thrill-seeking adventure, water sports and tubing offer adrenaline-pumping excitement and exhilarating fun on the water. Attach a tow rope to the back of your boat and tow inflatable tubes, wakeboards, or water skis for an action-packed ride across the waves. Encourage children and adults alike to take turns riding the waves and experiencing the thrill of speed and agility on the water. Practice safety precautions such as wearing life jackets and using hand signals to communicate with the boat driver, and always supervise children closely during water sports activities.

Nature Hikes and Explorations
Exploring nearby islands, nature reserves, or coastal trails on foot is a fantastic way to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of your surroundings. Anchor your boat near a designated hiking trail or scenic overlook, and set out on a family nature hike to discover hidden gems and breathtaking vistas along the way. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, and wear sturdy footwear suitable for hiking over varied terrain. Keep an eye out for wildlife and native flora as you explore, and take time to appreciate the sights, sounds, and scents of the natural world around you.

Beach Games and Activities
Organizing beach games and activities is a surefire way to keep everyone entertained and engaged during your family boating excursions. Bring along beach balls, frisbees, and sandcastle-building tools for classic beach fun, or challenge each other to a friendly game of beach volleyball or soccer. Organize a treasure hunt or scavenger hunt along the shoreline, hiding small trinkets or tokens for children to discover and collect. Get creative with your beach games and activities, and encourage everyone to participate and enjoy the playful spirit of the outdoors.

Outdoor Gear and Accessories
Ready to elevate your family boating experience with exciting outdoor activities and adventures? Shop now for a wide selection of outdoor gear, accessories, and equipment to enhance your next boating excursion. From fishing gear to water sports equipment to beach games and more, Boat Outfitters has everything you need to make the most of your time spent in the sun and surf. Click here to explore our collection and start planning your family's next outdoor adventure today.

Gallatin County has funding available to help residents in the Gallatin County Wildland Urban Interface reduce the risk of wildfire impacting their property.  

Wildfire risk is present throughout Gallatin County with the severity and risk varying based on location. Through the process of developing the 2022 Gallatin County Hazard Mitigation and Community Wildfire Protection Plan, 1,000,107 acres have been identified as Wildland Urban Interface in the county. Studies have shown that treating the area within 100 to 200 feet of your home greatly reduces the potential impacts of a wildfire.  

“You can take action to prevent the likelihood of your life or home being impacted by wildfire. And we can help you through that process,” said Jay Pape, Preparedness and Mitigation Manager with Gallatin County Emergency Management. “We can provide you with concrete steps you can take on your property and with as well as grant funding opportunities to help ease the costs.” 

The first step is for property owners to self-evaluate their property. This is a quick way to see what may easily be done to reduce wildfire risk.  

Residents can then request a FREE home risk assessment and Gallatin County staff will meet with homeowners on their property. The evaluator will review the self-assessment, walk around your property, and discuss what they are seeing. Following the in-person visit, owners will get a copy of the assessment.  

A home risk assessment provides an opportunity to ask questions, receive more in-depth guidance, and learn about approaches to wildfire mitigation. Mitigation projects could range from hand thinning areas around homes and structures, to larger forest thinning type projects, depending on the property’s size and continuity with neighbors.  

Many of the items identified during home risk assessments can be completed by homeowners. But in some cases, specialized skill or equipment may be needed. Homeowners can apply for a support that will offset their out-of-pocket expenses for any mitigation measures that may require more complex work.  In some cases, work may be 100% funded with support form the Montana Resiliency Fund. 

Montana’s investment in the Resiliency Fund makes a concerted effort to prevent costly repairs following a disaster by working with communities to mitigate potential damage risk prior to natural disasters. With this funding, MT DES works with local programs to apply for FEMA mitigation grants. FEMA grants typically require a 25% cost-share from the local government that is applying for the grant. Using this account, the state will be able to off-set the 25% local match. The 2023 legislature approved $4 million dollars a year for the next four years to the Resiliency Fund. By leveraging FEMA grants, this will result in a projected $64 million in disaster mitigation projects for Montana communities. The average disaster mitigation project has a 6:1 cost benefit, meaning this investment will save Montanan’s $384 million over the life of these projects.   

Wildfire mitigation is not a one-time project, but an ongoing activity. Properties may need heavier initial work, but annual maintenance that will be needed to keep the wildfire risk reduced over time. Residents who take part in a mitigation project with Gallatin County are required to follow a treatment plan for 10 years.  

Gallatin County’s wildfire mitigation program started in late 2022. We currently have four active funding programs covering several areas around the Gallatin Valley.  Interest in the program drives future identified project areas. 

This spring, the program added a three-person crew dedicated to helping homeowners conduct this mitigation work. 

Residents interested in getting their property assessed can find a step-by-step guide to scheduling assessments, applying for grant funding, and much more, at this link.