Tuesday, Mar. 10th, 2026

Montana State University Extension specialist discusses soil fertilization after warm, dry winter

BOZEMAN —Montana State University Extension’s soil fertility specialist suggests considering how a warm, dry winter might affect farmers’ fertilizer decisions for the upcoming growing season.

According to Clain Jones, MSU Extension soil fertility specialist and a professor in the Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences, most of Montana is considered to be abnormally dry or in moderate drought. And, some places in northcentral Montana are in severe or extreme drought, according to the National Weather Service’s drought monitor. Most of the northern part of the state, east of the Continental Divide, has received less than 25% of normal precipitation from Jan. 1, 2026, to Mar. 2, 2026, according to drought.gov. Only a small portion of central Montana has received about normal precipitation. The Montana Climate Office reports temperatures were well above average across the state for most of the winter.
“In general, drier conditions will result in less soil nutrient release and availability, though warmer conditions might have counteracted this to some degree,” Jones said. “The question is how these conditions have affected soil nutrient levels and whether it’s worth re-sampling soil if it was sampled last fall.”

In general, phosphorus, potassium and sulfur levels aren’t expected to change much from last fall, as dry conditions have likely prevented leaching of sulfur and likely slowed any release of these three nutrients from soil organic matter and plant residue, Jones said.

Nitrogen could have a bigger change because it can increase or decrease substantially over winter, according to Jones’ research. Microbes can release substantial amounts of nitrate, the plant-available form of nitrogen, from soil organic matter and plant residue if the soil is warm and moist enough. Even though it has been warmer than normal, Jones said, soil temperatures at 2 to 4 inches are still generally below 40 degrees, which is a temperature where microbial activity is very low, likely minimizing nitrogen release. In addition, low rainfall in most areas has likely prevented nitrate leaching except on very shallow soils. Considering all factors, Jones predicts that spring nitrate levels won’t be substantially different than fall levels, and that re-testing soil this spring for those who sampled in the fall may not be necessary. 

Given relatively high nitrogen fertilizer costs, low commodity prices and below-average soil moisture, Jones suggests applying conservative nitrogen rates this spring. Nitrogen could be applied in-season if spring has average-to-above-average precipitation. In-season nitrogen application can be especially helpful at increasing wheat grain protein, but equipment, time or weather constraints often minimize its use.

A calculator on MSU Extension’s soil fertility website can be used to determine nitrogen rates that maximize profit. Overfertilizing nitrogen can lead to soil acidity problems, water contamination and reduced profit, so it is important to only apply what is necessary, Jones said. Because urea fertilizer can be lost to the air as ammonia, urea should either be applied 2 inches or more below the surface or surface-applied before a predicted large rain event of at least ½ inch.

Recent research by Jones and his colleagues on sulfur fertilizer has found that yellow mustard needs about 2.5 pounds of available sulfur per 100 pounds of grain, canola needs approximately 0.65 pounds of available sulfur per bushel, and wheat and pea need about 0.3 pounds of available sulfur per bushel. Available sulfur equals the amount of sulfur fertilizer plus the amount of plant-available soil sulfur in the top 2 feet of the soil, expressed in pounds per acre. Not all sulfur soil tests produce the same results, so individuals are invited to contact Jones with any questions on sulfur tests.

Minimal phosphorus and potassium fertilization is necessary if a soil test shows that soil phosphorus is above 16 parts per million or that potassium is above 250 parts per million. If phosphorus or potassium levels are below these thresholds, it is recommended that additions of these nutrients be made to the soil. 

Jones noted that fertilizer applied in the seed row can impact seedling emergence more when soils are dry, especially in coarse soils. He recommends contacting a crop adviser, MSU Extension agent or Jones himself to determine seed-safe fertilizer rates.

Jones said producers or crop advisers should scout crops early for signs of nutrient deficiencies, as rescue nutrient applications can be made if deficiencies are spotted early enough.

“Nitrogen deficiency is likely if the older leaves are uniformly light green or yellow. Sulfur deficiency symptoms are similar but show up on the newer leaves first,” Jones added.  
More detailed descriptions and pictures of nutrient deficiency symptoms are available at https://landresources.montana.edu/soilfertility/nutrientdeficiency.html.

Individuals can contact a crop adviser or local MSU Extension agent for help making fertilizer decisions. Questions about soil fertility can also be directed to Jones at clainj@montana.edu or 406-994-6076 or addressed by visiting the MSU Extension soil fertility website at landresources.montana.edu/soilfertility/.

Add a Comment »

Maro Selected for Georgetown University’s Thrive Center Innovation Hub Fellowship

BOZEMAN — Maro is proud to announce that its senior leadership team, along with CEO Kenzie Davis, has been selected as 2026 Fellows of the Innovation Hub at the Thrive Center Georgetown University, a prestigious three-month fellowship designed to help visionary leaders scale impact in child and family mental and developmental health.

Maro exists because most young people wait more than a decade between their first signs of mental health struggle and their first moment of real help. Maro partners with schools and health plans to make sure that gap doesn't exist by delivering mental health screenings that identify students who are struggling early, and connecting them and their families to support before a hard season becomes a lasting crisis. Since its founding, Maro has reached more than 70,000 students nationwide.

Maro is honored to join Georgetown's research fellowship, and to contribute real-world data to the important work of whole-family health. The Innovation Hub Fellowship supports entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders working to transform outcomes for children, families, and communities. Fellows participate in a three-month intensive program that includes dedicated coaching, expert advisors, tailored programming and a vibrant community of peers and sector leaders.

“I’m honored to be part of this incredible cohort of leaders who are reimagining how we support children and families,” said Davis. “Through the Thrive Center Innovation Hub, I look forward to deepening our work at Maro and expanding our impact through new partnerships and evidence-based innovation.”

The Thrive Center, based at Georgetown University, is a national leader in advancing research, practice, and innovation at the intersection of mental health, child development, and community well-being. The Innovation Hub connects promising changemakers with the tools, mentors, and networks necessary to accelerate their ideas from concept to implementation.

For more information about the Thrive Center Innovation Hub, visit https://thrivecenter.georgetown.edu/.

Reach Kenzie Davis at kenzie@meetmaro.com, or visit www.meetmaro.com.

Add a Comment »

Monday, Mar. 9th, 2026

Portion of Gallatin River to close during Markley Bridge replacement

BIG SKY – A portion of the Gallatin River will close to boating starting next week while crews with the U.S. Forest Service begin work to replace Markley Bridge near Big Sky.

The closure will begin March 9 and could last through May 18. This closure will temporarily restrict boating on the Gallatin River from the Upper Deer Creek boat launch—located just above Markley Bridge—to the Portal Creek boat launch. Boaters will still be able to put in at the Portal Creek boat launch and float downstream.

Wade angling and other walk-in use will continue to be allowed, except in the immediate area of bridge construction.

The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission approved the closure during their Feb. 12 meeting.

Add a Comment »

Wednesday, Mar. 4th, 2026

Give Big Gallatin Valley Welcomes commonFont As New Headline Sponsor

Gallatin County, MT — One Valley Community Foundation announces commonFont as the new Headline Sponsor for Give Big Gallatin Valley, Montana’s largest 24-hour giving initiative. The partnership marks an exciting new chapter as Give Big continues to grow participation, deepen community connection, and strengthen support for nonprofits across Gallatin County.

Now in its 12th year, Give Big Gallatin Valley is a county-wide initiative hosted by One Valley Community Foundation that will bring together hundreds of nonprofits and thousands of donors for 24 hours of generosity, from 6pm April 30 to 6pm May 1. Since 2015, Give Big has raised more than $20.4 million for 489 nonprofits located in or serving Gallatin County.

commonFont is a Bozeman-headquartered consulting and technology firm that helps organizations elevate customer and employee experiences through strategic consulting, technology implementation, and AI-powered solutions. The company supports clients in turning insights into action that strengthens outcomes and human connection.

Since 2021, commonFont has participated as a Give Big business fundraiser, raising $39,500 and encouraging employee generosity through matching gifts. Its expanded role as Headline Sponsor reflects a continued investment in the nonprofits that serve Gallatin County every day.

The company’s name is inspired by a public fountain in an Italian piazza, a shared source of connection and renewal. In many ways, Give Big serves a similar role, providing essential fundraising infrastructure while creating collective momentum for local nonprofits.

“As the host of Give Big Gallatin Valley, One Valley Community Foundation is committed to stewarding this initiative in a way that builds trust, collaboration, and long-term impact,” said Bridget Wilkinson, President & CEO of One Valley Community Foundation. “Welcoming commonFont as our new Headline Sponsor is an exciting opportunity to expand the partnership around Give Big. They bring a strong culture of giving, meaningful support for their employees’ charitable efforts, and a deep connection to this community. Together, we look forward to building on Give Big’s growth and making this year the strongest yet.”

“At commonFont, one of our core values is to ‘Be the Fountain’—to serve generously and uplift others to build stronger human connections. Supporting Give Big Gallatin Valley as Headline Sponsor is an expression of that commitment,” said Abby Schlatter, CEO and Co-Founder of commonFont. “We are honored to partner with One Valley Community Foundation to turn individual acts of generosity into generative, county-wide impact that amplifies the incredible work of our local nonprofits.”

page1image61258576

Nonprofits can register for Give Big Gallatin Valley through March 13 at givebiggv.org. This year’s initiative aims to engage 7,000 donors and continue strengthening the culture of generosity across Gallatin County.

About Give Big Gallatin Valley

Give Big Gallatin Valley is a 24-hour annual giving initiative coordinated by One Valley Community Foundation that connects donors with local nonprofits to amplify impact and support community wellbeing. Since 2015, Give Big has raised more than $20.4 million for hundreds of nonprofit causes, fostering a shared tradition of generosity across Gallatin County.

About commonFont

commonFont partners with the world’s most strategic and innovative companies to elevate customer and employee experiences. Through strategic consulting, technology implementation and services, and AI-powered solutions, we help enterprises listen to customers and employees, analyze what’s working (and what isn’t), and transform insights into clear, coordinated action that improves experiences and business outcomes. commonFont is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, with a second office based in Providence, Rhode Island.

About One Valley Community Foundation

One Valley Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that matter to ensure all can thrive in Gallatin County. As the county’s community foundation, One Valley supports nonprofits through training, resources, and peer learning opportunities, and helps donors give back through donor advised funds and other accessible charitable tools. The community foundation leads initiatives like Give Big Gallatin Valley and convenes partners to address complex challenges, including collaborative work around housing. Through stewardship, connection, and local insight, One Valley champions a strong and vibrant community today and for generations to come.

Add a Comment »

How to watch: Bobcat basketball teams kick off conference tournament in Boise

BOZEMAN – As the regular season winds to a close, Montana State University’s men’s and women’s basketball teams will travel to Boise, Idaho, this weekend for the start of the 10-team Big Sky Conference tournament.

Both Bobcat teams are seeded No. 2 leading into the tournament, earning a first-round bye. They will play their first games on Sunday, March 8. The women will play at 2:30 p.m. against the winner of Saturday's game between No. 7 Northern Arizona and No. 8 Montana. The Bobcat men will play Sunday at 8 p.m. against the winner of Saturday's game between No. 7 Idaho and No. 8 Sacramento State.

Affectionately known as “Starch Madness,” the conference tournament will once again be held in Boise’s Idaho Central Arena. Single game and full-tournament tickets can be purchased on the tournament website, starchmadness.com. Complete men’s and women’s brackets can also be found online.

For the Big Sky Conference, only the tournament champion earns an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. Every year since 2022, one or both MSU teams have earned those spots, with the men’s team advancing to the national tournament three consecutive times from 2022 to 2024 and the women claiming the conference crown in 2022 and 2025.

All 20 games in the Big Sky Conference tournament will be available to stream on ESPN+, which requires a subscription. Select games will also be broadcast nationally via ESPNU and ESPN2. 
Updates
Quick Links

Add a Comment »

Tuesday, Mar. 3rd, 2026

Premium Kava Drink By Mitra9—Driven By Accountability And Excellence

Leadership credibility defines how a brand is perceived in a competitive marketplace, and that distinction becomes clear when discussing premium kava drink standards. Mitra9 positions itself at the forefront through disciplined accountability frameworks and an uncompromising commitment to excellence across every operational tier. Executive oversight is structured around measurable objectives, documented governance systems, and clearly articulated corporate priorities that guide long-term advancement. This unwavering dedication to professional rigor strengthens its authority within the premium kava drink landscape, presenting a brand defined by responsibility, institutional strength, and a sustained pursuit of organizational distinction.

 Mitra9—Driven By Accountability And Excellence For Premium Kava Drink
 
Clearly defined corporate accountability hierarchies
Organizational strength within the premium kava drink sector is shaped by clarity in leadership structure and disciplined chains of responsibility. Mitra9 reinforces its standing through clearly defined corporate accountability hierarchies that establish precise authority lines across every level of management.

 
Each executive role operates within documented parameters supported by structured oversight mechanisms and measurable performance expectations. This deliberate framework ensures that strategic initiatives move forward with alignment, consistency, and institutional control. Decision-making flows through established channels, reducing ambiguity while strengthening operational cohesion throughout the enterprise.
 
Documented strategic oversight procedures
Sustained leadership in the premium kava drink market is reinforced by systems that prioritize precision and control at every operational stage. Mitra9 strengthens its authority through documented strategic oversight procedures that formalize evaluation, planning, and executive review across the organization.

Clearly codified review cycles, structured approval workflows, and defined supervisory checkpoints ensure that initiatives align with long-term corporate direction. By embedding formal oversight mechanisms into its corporate foundation, the brand solidifies its reputation within the premium kava drink landscape as a brand defined by organized control, deliberate leadership execution, and unwavering dedication to operational excellence.

Precision-based executive decision pathways
Clarity at the executive level defines how authority is maintained within the premium kava drink sector. Mitra9 reinforces its leadership standing through precision-based executive decision pathways that eliminate uncertainty and strengthen strategic alignment across the organization. Clearly mapped approval structures, documented escalation routes, and structured deliberation protocols ensure that every major initiative advances with purpose and accountability.

By embedding exacting decision architecture into its corporate model, the brand elevates its credibility in the premium kava drink landscape, presenting a brand shaped by disciplined judgment, structured authority, and a resolute commitment to operational distinction.
 
Enterprise-wide transparency initiatives
Institutional credibility within the premium kava drink landscape is strengthened by openness that extends across every operational layer. Mitra9 advances its leadership presence through enterprise-wide transparency initiatives designed to foster clarity, trust, and structured communication throughout the organization. This culture of visibility reduces ambiguity, enhances collaboration, and supports disciplined governance practices across all divisions.

By embedding transparency into its corporate foundation, the brand elevates its standing in the premium kava drink sector as a brand defined by openness, coordinated oversight, and an unwavering dedication to professional excellence.
 
Structured risk assessment frameworks
Resilient leadership in the premium kava drink sector is reinforced by proactive systems that anticipate challenges before they impact performance. Mitra9 strengthens its organizational foundation through structured risk assessment frameworks that precisely evaluate potential variables with strategic foresight.

Comprehensive review protocols, scenario planning models, and documented mitigation pathways guide executive planning while preserving operational stability. By embedding calculated risk evaluation into its governance architecture, the brand elevates its authority within the premium kava drink landscape, presenting a brand defined by strategic vigilance, structured oversight, and an enduring commitment to excellence.

Leadership performance tracking matrices
Enduring authority within the premium kava drink space is strengthened by executive evaluation systems grounded in measurable criteria. Mitra9 reinforces its leadership position through performance-tracking matrices that assess strategic impact, operational efficiency, and long-term progress across senior management tiers.

Leadership operates with clarity under quantifiable standards that reinforce consistency and institutional focus. By embedding comprehensive evaluation tools into its corporate framework, the brand elevates its standing in the premium kava drink market, positioning the brand as defined by precision, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Integrated compliance monitoring systems
Operational integrity within the premium kava drink industry is reinforced by systems that continuously safeguard standards across every division. Mitra9 strengthens its leadership foundation through integrated compliance monitoring systems designed to maintain alignment with documented policies and corporate objectives.

This synchronized supervision enhances transparency, supports disciplined governance, and reinforces accountability at every organizational tier. By embedding a comprehensive monitoring architecture into its corporate structure, the brand elevates its authority in the premium kava drink landscape, presenting a brand defined by vigilance, structured oversight, and enduring professional excellence.

Vision-centered corporate planning cycles
Long-range credibility in the premium kava drink market is shaped by structured planning anchored in clearly articulated ambitions. Mitra9 advances its leadership stature through vision-centered corporate planning cycles that connect executive foresight with disciplined execution. Strategic roadmaps are developed through coordinated leadership summits, performance forecasting models, and defined milestone frameworks that guide organizational progress across multiple horizons.

By embedding future-oriented planning architecture into its institutional foundation, the brand elevates its authority within the premium kava drink landscape, presenting a brand characterized by deliberate direction, cohesive governance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
 
Internal audit and governance controls
Sustained authority within the premium kava drink landscape is reinforced by disciplined oversight mechanisms that safeguard institutional integrity. Mitra9 strengthens its corporate foundation through rigorous internal audit and governance controls designed to maintain alignment with established standards and strategic objectives.
 
Structured review committees, documented inspection protocols, and scheduled evaluation cycles create a systematic environment where accountability remains continuous rather than reactive. By embedding robust governance architecture into its enterprise structure, the brand elevates its standing in the premium kava drink sector, presenting a brand defined by vigilant oversight, principled management, and unwavering professional excellence.

Wrapping Up
Sustained distinction in the premium kava drink market is achieved through leadership that prioritizes structure, measurable responsibility, and disciplined corporate governance. Mitra9 exemplifies this approach by embedding accountability into every executive layer while maintaining a steadfast commitment to organizational excellence. Strategic direction is guided by documented oversight systems, integrated evaluation models, and cohesive planning frameworks that reinforce long-term stability. Within the evolving premium kava drink space, the brand stands as a brand defined by principled leadership, structured oversight, and an unwavering dedication to professional distinction, continually setting a higher benchmark for excellence.

 
About The Author
Palmina Thomson is a senior brand communications strategist and digital growth architect with over two decades of experience leading editorial innovation across specialized consumer industries. Her work spans strategic content governance, search visibility engineering, and compliance-aligned messaging designed to strengthen brand credibility in complex regulatory environments. Recognized for her precision-driven methodology and structured planning expertise, she helps organizations refine positioning, elevate institutional trust, and maintain competitive relevance through disciplined, data-informed content strategies.

Add a Comment »

Montana State to offer summer writing camps for youth


BOZEMAN
— Registration is open for a pair of July summer camps at Montana State University aimed at helping young, budding writers explore their craft. 

The camps are for writers entering third through twelfth grades. Campers will participate in field trips, writing games, and workshops with local writers from multiple genres. MSU faculty from the Yellowstone Writing Project, a group of educators and writers in the Department of English, will lead the camps.

Parents of participants will be invited to a final showcase on July 17 to celebrate their campers’ work.

Writers entering fifth through eighth and ninth through twelfth grades can attend the Youth Writing Camp from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 13-17. The price for commuter participants is $350, and the price for campers staying in an on-campus residence hall is $875. An additional fee of $25 will be added for registrations after June 1, 2026.

The Young Writer’s Camp, which will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 14-17, hosts writers entering third and fourth grades. The camp costs $300, with no overnight lodging on campus available. After June 1, the camp’s price increases to $325.

Registration is available at https://ato.montana.edu/ywp/ and will close once the camps are full.

Contact: Justin Gibson, program manager for Academic Technology and Outreach, at 406-994-6633 or justin.gibson3@montana.edu.

 

Add a Comment »

Thursday, Feb. 26th, 2026

Belgrade Parks and Recreation Seeks Volunteers for May–September Summer Programs

BELGRADE– Belgrade Parks and Recreation is seeking community volunteers to support its summer programming, which runs May through September in Belgrade parks. Volunteers are needed to help lead one-time activities, organize tournaments, and perform music at weekly events designed to be welcoming and accessible for all ages and experience levels.

Volunteer opportunities include leading or assisting with introductory activities such as volleyball, badminton, tennis, grilling and cooking demonstrations, dance workshops, orienteering, tie-dyeing, birding, phone photography, leatherwork, and candle making. Many of these activities are offered once or on a limited basis throughout the summer, giving volunteers flexible options to participate.

Volunteers are also needed to help organize informal community tournaments, including disc golf, horseshoes, and skateboarding.

In addition, family-friendly musicians and bands are invited to perform during Dancing in the Grass, a weekly Sunday evening concert series held throughout the summer at Lewis & Clark Park. Several performance dates are still available.

page1image20974224“These programs are about lowering the barrier to trying something new and creating moments where neighbors can connect in our parks,” said Jordan Green, Director of Belgrade Parks and Recreation. “Volunteers are the reason we can offer such a wide range of welcoming activities for the community.”

Individuals, groups, and organizations interested in volunteering or performing can sign up or receive more information by emailing lbeedy@belgrademt.gov or calling 406-388-4711.

Add a Comment »

Tuesday, Feb. 24th, 2026

Montana State University Library offers new tool to help libraries with AI use

BOZEMAN — As libraries grapple with how to use artificial intelligence tools in responsible and ethical ways, Montana State University Library researchers are offering a new, free resource to help those institutions make decisions about AI that align with their values.

“Viewfinder: A toolkit for values-driven AI in libraries and archives” is designed to support librarians, researchers and others as they consider whether and how to implement AI tools in their libraries and archives. The toolkit is available to use and download at www.lib.montana.edu/responsible-ai/viewfinder/.

“I’m so excited about this tool our team has developed,” said Sara Mannheimer, associate professor with the MSU Library and the project leader. “It’s been really great to see the data and research come together.”

Artificial intelligence can help libraries provide better services, Mannheimer said, including making materials more accessible, but using AI can also raise ethical questions. So, more than three years ago, Mannheimer and her colleagues began working on a project to help address those related ethical considerations.

In addition to Mannheimer, researchers include Jason Clark, Doralyn Rossmann and Scott Young with the MSU Library; Bonnie Sheehey with the MSU Department of History and Philosophy; Hannah Scates Kettler with Iowa State University; Yasmeen Shorish with James Madison University; and Natalie Bond with the University of Montana. The team’s efforts have been backed by a $250,000, three-year grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The grant is affiliated with the MSU Center for Science, Technology, Ethics and Society.

“We see AI as this potentially transformative technology for libraries,” Mannheimer said in a 2022 news story about the team’s work. “AI can provide services that users love – services that can make the library better – but we want to use AI in a way that is careful and with an eye toward potential harms so that those harms can be minimized.”

In a recent interview, Mannheimer said the motivation for the work came about when she and her colleagues were beginning to use machine learning to summarize articles, recognize images and create metadata – or data that defines and describes the characteristics of other data. Machine learning is a subset of AI where computer systems learn and adapt without following explicit instructions by using algorithms and statistical models.

At the time, Mannheimer said, that was a common use of machine learning, but it led to some important questions.

“In libraries we have a very specific set of values and practices that have been longstanding; we really value patron privacy and intellectual freedom,” Mannheimer said. “These are different values than corporations have, and someone developing AI technology would have different values than someone in a library. So, we were looking to use machine learning algorithms but from a librarian’s perspective.”

Mannheimer and her colleagues began their work with a review of the existing research findings, looking at case studies of librarians who had used machine learning in related contexts. They also did a review of different tools that were already available to help librarians and researchers make informed, ethical decisions.

“We saw that there was a need for a tool to support ethical decision-making as you’re working through an AI project,” Mannheimer said.

From there, the team hosted a series of workshops with library administrators, librarians and students and asked participants to identify what values would be at play for them when faced with various AI-related scenarios. They also asked workshop participants to prioritize the identified values.

Then, using some of the information gathered in the workshops, the team created a toolkit featuring scenarios and prompts to help facilitate ethical reflection about AI in libraries and archives from different stakeholder perspectives. It includes three different sections: scenarios, stakeholders and values. Those using the tool can use sample scenarios to generate thought and discussion, or they can create a customized scenario.

The toolkit invites users to identify stakeholders and consider which values are of concern to stakeholders. There are also prompts for reflection.

For example, one scenario invites users to consider using a third-party service that uses AI to generate brief summaries of research articles for students and faculty. It then invites users to identify three values that would be important in their consideration; examples include privacy and consent; fiscal responsibility; education; human-centeredness; trust; social responsibility; and service quality.

“People can use this tool individually or as part of a team working on implementing an AI project,” Mannheimer said. “It helps think through potential stakeholder values and accommodate those if possible. It’s more about balancing and encouraging conversations than having a right or wrong answer.”

Rossmann, one of Mannheimer’s collaborators and dean of the MSU Library, said she is excited about the possibilities that come with the new tool.

“As a next step, we will be working with libraries and archives to use Viewfinder in their everyday work,” Rossmann said. “It's important to consider challenging questions at the beginning of AI projects, rather than as an afterthought, and this tool will help with that.”
Mannheimer noted that libraries have a “unique responsibility” to maintain trust with their users.

“Libraries are often the first to practically implement technologies, and libraries are reliant on technologies for a lot of the services we provide,” Mannheimer said. “As new technologies come through, it’s our responsibility to understand them and integrate them so we can have the best services possible and keep up to date. Because of our longstanding values and position as a trusted institution, it’s important to think very carefully about how these technologies affect our information landscape and our users.

“We have some power to decide how we use technologies in our lives,” Mannheimer added. “Viewfinder is one way to actualize that power.”

Add a Comment »

New license year starts March 1, here’s what you need to know

HELENA – New Year’s Day for many outdoor recreationists in Montana is March 1. This is the day everyone can buy their 2026 hunting and fishing licenses and apply for special draw licenses and permits. It’s also the day when recreationists need to renew their conservation license to support the state lands they use.

This year, hunters and anglers will see quite a few changes that are worth paying close attention to. These changes come from legislation passed by the 2025 Montana Legislature and new regulations adopted by the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission.

Licenses for the 2026 license year can be purchased starting Sunday, March 1. If you plan on being in the field on that day, you can buy your license online here.

Hunters and anglers buying their license in person at a local business will see some changes as FWP is transitioning to a License Ambassador program. This change will move all licensing sales to Montana’s online licensing system. This allows FWP to add additional businesses that would like to sell licenses and move away from the old point-of-sale systems that were unreplaceable and outdated.

As always, you can buy and apply for licenses online and at your local FWP office as well. Note that some businesses who used to sell licenses may not anymore. To find a License Ambassador, see the map here.

Deer

Some of the biggest changes hunters will notice are with deer regulations. In December, the Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted several hunting district-specific changes to deer licenses and permits. The commission also made some regulation changes aimed at protecting mule deer numbers and managing hunting pressure. These include:

  • Many Mule Deer B Licenses will be valid only on private land. Check your specific hunting district.
  • Residents can only hold up to three deer licenses, including their General Deer License. This isdown from up to eight in past years.

Nonresidents continue to be limited to one Deer B License, unless they draw a combo license and then they can hold two.

Like always, make sure to read the regulations prior to buying or applying for any licenses or permits. The regulations for your hunting district may have changed.

Elk

Regulations changes approved by the commission include:

  • The quota of the 799-20 Elk License is 325. A second antlerless Elk B License will be available to any holder of an Elk Permit in hunting districts 702, 704, or 705, subject to the same restrictions in time, open areas, and limitations associated with the permit.
  • All Region 1 Elk B Licenses will only be valid on private land.

Black bear

The commission also established Black Bear Permits in two bear management units in FWP Region 5, south-central Montana. The deadline to apply for these permits is April 1. Hunters can also accrue bonus points for black bears.

Antelope

  • The quota of 900-20 Licenses (archery antelope) is 5,600. Region 3 is no longer in this bundle and was placed in its own pool with 500 licenses.
  • The Region 3 Antelope Archery Licenses are 399-20.

Bighorn sheep

Montana has five unlimited bighorn sheep hunting districts. This year those licenses will only be issued through a drawing.

  • Hunters applying for any unlimited opportunity will no longer participate in the bonus point program. This keeps hunters from spending their bonus points on an unlimited draw.

Shed hunters

The 2025 Montana Legislature passed a law that implements a Nonresident Shed Hunting License for Montana’s Wildlife Management Areas (WMA). Additionally, this new law prohibits nonresidents from picking up antlers on WMAs for the first seven days they are open to the public in the spring. Most WMAs open to the public at 12 p.m. on May 15. However, some have different openings dates. Nonresident shed hunters must review the regulations for the WMA they are looking to visit. There are no changes for resident shed hunters.

A Shed Hunting License for nonresidents costs $50.

License and application fees

The 2025 Montana Legislature passed laws adjusting several license fees. The new fees are as follows:

  • Nonresident Base Hunting License fee increased from $15 to $50
  • Fee for resident and nonresident Crane and Swan License - $10 and $75 respectively.
    • Application fees $10 resident, $50 nonresident
  • Resident Migratory Bird License increased from $5.50 to $10
  • Increased Resident Upland Bird and Sportsman’s Combo License fees:
    • Upland bird from $7.50 to $10
    • Sportsman without Bear from $62 to $64.50
    • Sportsman with Bear from $77 to $79.50
  • Increased Nonresident Upland Bird (season and three-day) and resets combination license fees:
    • Upland Bird (season) from $110 to $127
    • Upland Bird (three-day) from $50 to $60
    • Big Game Combo to $1,312
    • Elk Combo to $1,112
    • Deer Combo to $760

Upland Birds

The 2025 Montana Legislature passed a law that limits nonresident upland game bird hunting seasons. In 2026, nonresidents hunting on public lands and privately owned lands that are a part of a hunting access program begin hunting 10 days later than residents for all species except mountain grouse.

Add a Comment »

News Comments