It's one of our favorite days of the year downtown!
MAIN STREET WILL BE CLOSED on Tuesday, December 2nd beginning at 7:30am until 1:00pm for the installation of the intersection holiday decorations.
Please have all cars off Main Street per signage and follow detours.
HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on the following environmental assessments (EA). For more information, including how to submit comments, click on the link provided or visit fwp.mt.gov/public-notices.
Case Ranch Company Regional Access Project Draft Checklist EA
FWP invites public review of a proposed project to accept assignment (delegation) of the “right of public hunting access” component of a conservation easement to be held by Five Valleys Land Trust on approximately 1,710 acres of the Case Ranch in Missoula County near Potomac. The Case Ranch and Five Valleys plan to work jointly with FWP to secure and develop a plan for public hunting access after the property has a conservation easement held by Five Valleys.
Comment deadline: Nov. 25
Management of Historic Structures at Clarks Fork Yellowstone Fishing Access Site EA
FWP is proposing a project to create an agreement with Bridger Historical Society (BHS) in an effort to restore historic structures and establish a walking trail to the structures in Clarks Fork of Yellowstone Fishing Access Site (FAS). The FAS was acquired with Access Montana Funds in 2009 by FWP. It is consisted of 172 acres of land adjacent to the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River, approximately 2 miles south of Bridger, in Carbon County. The Frances and Emma Jennings Homestead is a historic site located at the FAS. The cabin was built near the Jim Bridger Trail where it crosses the Clark’s Fork River near the mouth of Bridger Creek. BHS identified the Jennings Homestead as important to the community and began developing a preliminary plan to rehabilitate or stabilize the structures. Development to support visitation may include a walking trail from the existing FAS parking lot, pullout improvement adjacent to the FAS internal road, localized site and area cleaning, tree trimming, tree removal and interpretive signs.
Comment deadline: Dec. 14
Moving out of an apartment is always a mix of excitement and stress. You’re likely eager to move into your new place and start fresh, but before you hand over your keys, there’s one big task that stands between you and that all-important security deposit: leaving your apartment in great shape.
Most landlords expect tenants to return the property in the same condition it was rented (minus normal wear and tear). And since security deposits can easily amount to one or two months’ rent, it’s worth taking the time to make sure you get that money back.
This apartment moving out checklist will guide you step-by-step through what to clean, repair, and prepare before you leave. Whether you’re in a tiny studio or a spacious two-bedroom, following this checklist will help you leave your apartment spotless, and your landlord impressed.
The biggest mistake tenants make when moving out is underestimating how long it takes to clean, pack, and fix small things. Start planning your move at least four weeks before your move-out date.
Begin by reviewing your lease. Look for any move-out clauses or requirements your landlord might have included, such as professional carpet cleaning, repainting, or notice periods. Knowing these details helps you avoid deductions later.
Then, make a moving timeline. Break tasks into smaller steps: decluttering, packing, cleaning, scheduling movers, and completing your final walkthrough. If you’re moving within the city, hiring Apartment Movers NYC can make your transition much smoother. Our team understands the unique challenges of navigating tight staircases, busy streets, and strict building regulations. With years of experience and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, we offer seamless packing, loading, and transportation services that take the stress out of moving day.
Most leases require a 30-day notice before moving out. Some landlords may even ask for 60 days. Failing to provide proper notice could cost you part of your deposit or another month’s rent.
Submit your notice in writing, even if you’ve already told your landlord verbally. Include your move-out date and a forwarding address for your deposit refund. If you can, ask your landlord for a move-out inspection checklist so you know exactly what they’ll be looking for.
Packing is easier, and cheaper, when you have less stuff. Before you start boxing things up, declutter every room. Separate items into four piles: keep, donate, sell, and toss.
You can host a quick yard sale or post items on local marketplace apps to make a little extra moving cash. Donating furniture and clothes to local charities not only clears up space but also lightens your moving load.
Once you’ve decluttered, packing becomes more manageable and your new apartment will feel organized from day one.
Before you start cleaning or repairing, document the apartment’s current condition with photos and videos. Capture every room, wall, floor, appliance, and window.
Why? These photos serve as proof that you’re leaving the apartment in good shape. If there’s any dispute over damages, you’ll have solid evidence.
It’s also smart to compare these new photos with the ones you took when you first moved in. This visual record can help protect your security deposit if your landlord claims damage that was already there.
Even small things can cost you. That nail hole you ignored or that small paint chip on the wall might give your landlord an excuse to withhold part of your deposit.
Do a walk-through of the apartment and make small repairs yourself:
• Patch nail holes with spackle.
• Touch up walls with matching paint.
• Tighten loose cabinet handles or door knobs.
• Replace burned-out light bulbs.
• Fix or replace broken blinds.
If your walls have significant damage or stains, consider repainting them the original color. A small investment in supplies can save you hundreds later.
A quick vacuum and dusting won’t cut it; landlords expect a deep clean. Go room by room and focus on the details that often get overlooked.
Kitchen
• Clean inside and outside of all appliances (fridge, oven, microwave, dishwasher).
• Scrub the stovetop and remove grease from the hood.
• Wipe down cabinets and countertops.
• Clean the sink and faucet, and check for any food residue in the drain.
• Mop the floor and clean baseboards.
Bathroom
• Scrub the toilet, sink, and bathtub thoroughly.
• Remove mold and mildew from tiles and grout.
• Polish mirrors and faucets.
• Clean behind the toilet and around edges of the tub.
Living Room and Bedrooms
• Dust and wipe every surface, including ceiling fans and light fixtures.
• Vacuum carpets and mop hardwood or tile floors.
• Clean windows, window sills, and blinds.
• Remove nails, hooks, and stickers from walls.
If you have pets, it’s a good idea to deodorize carpets and furniture to remove lingering odors.
When cleaning, don’t overlook places your landlord will definitely check. These often-forgotten spots can make or break your deposit return:
• Inside closets, drawers, and cabinets
• Under appliances and furniture
• Air vents and ceiling fans
• Behind doors and in corners
• Windowsills and door frames
Take your time, attention to detail goes a long way in making your apartment look spotless.
Carpets often hold onto stains and smells, especially if you’ve lived in the apartment for several years. Some landlords require professional carpet cleaning before move-out, so check your lease.
Even if it’s not required, consider hiring a local cleaner to remove stains and odors. If you have hardwood floors, sweep, mop, and use a gentle cleaner to make them shine again.
If you’ve accidentally scratched the floors or spilled something that caused discoloration, try to fix it before your inspection. There are inexpensive touch-up kits that can make a big difference.
Appliances are one of the first things landlords inspect. Dirty or damaged appliances are common reasons for deposit deductions.
Unplug each appliance and give it a deep clean:
• Refrigerator: Empty it, defrost if necessary, wipe down all shelves and drawers, and leave the door slightly open to prevent odors.
• Oven and Stove: Remove racks, clean burnt food, and wipe surfaces with degreaser.
• Microwave: Clean inside with a mix of water and vinegar to remove odors.
• Dishwasher: Run an empty cycle with vinegar to clean it internally.
• Laundry machines: Wipe rubber seals and detergent trays.
After you finish, double-check that all appliances work properly.
Scuffed walls, chipped paint, and broken blinds are some of the easiest things to fix, and some of the most common reasons landlords charge tenants.
Use a magic eraser to remove scuff marks. For deeper scratches or dents, a small paint touch-up usually does the trick. Make sure all doors open and close smoothly and that locks function properly.
Clean all windows inside and out. Use glass cleaner to remove streaks and dust. If window screens are damaged, consider repairing or replacing them; it’s a minor fix that shows responsibility.
If you’ve lost any small fixtures, like curtain rods, light covers, or remote controls for ceiling fans, replace them before moving out. These little things may seem unimportant, but landlords often charge retail replacement costs (plus labor) if they’re missing.
Check every room for items that belong to the apartment: shelving, appliance trays, or outlet covers. Returning everything to its original condition ensures a smooth move-out inspection.
Before you move out, cancel or transfer all utilities, electricity, water, internet, and gas, so you don’t continue getting billed after you’ve left. Make sure your final utility readings are recorded, and keep a copy of your final bills.
Don’t forget to update your address with USPS, banks, subscription services, and employers. You can set up mail forwarding through the USPS website so you don’t miss important mail at your new address.
Many landlords will agree to a pre-move-out inspection if you request it. This is your opportunity to find out exactly what needs fixing before the final walkthrough.
During the inspection, take notes of any issues your landlord points out and address them promptly. Being proactive shows responsibility and helps ensure you’ll receive your full security deposit.
It’s easy to overlook small items when packing, shower curtains, cleaning supplies, or things in storage closets. Make sure everything that’s yours is removed from the apartment before you leave.
Leaving behind trash, furniture, or even a few boxes can lead to cleaning or disposal fees. Once you’ve moved everything out, do a final sweep of each room to make sure it’s empty.
After your belongings are out, do one last thorough cleaning. It’s easier to see dirt, dust, or stains when the apartment is empty. Vacuum floors, wipe down surfaces, and make sure every room smells fresh.
If you’re short on time or energy, you can hire professional cleaners to handle this step. Some moving companies, like Apartment Movers NYC, even offer move-out cleaning packages, saving you time and ensuring your space meets landlord expectations.
Once you’re done cleaning, take a final walk around the apartment. Check every room, closet, and cabinet one last time. Make sure windows are closed, lights are off, and all personal items are gone.
Then, return your keys exactly as your lease specifies, whether that’s directly to your landlord, the leasing office, or a drop box. Don’t forget to include garage remotes, mail keys, or access fobs.
In most states, landlords are required by law to return your security deposit within 14 to 30 days after move-out. To ensure it’s processed quickly, provide your forwarding address and request the refund in writing.
If your landlord deducts any portion, they must provide an itemized list explaining the charges. Review it carefully; if something seems unfair or inaccurate, you can dispute it with your documentation and photos.
Even if you had issues with your landlord during your tenancy, staying courteous at move-out is crucial. A friendly attitude can go a long way toward avoiding unnecessary disputes.
Express appreciation for the time you spent in the apartment and confirm that you’ve met all the move-out requirements. A smooth relationship at the end increases your chances of a full deposit return.
Moving out of an apartment doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With preparation, organization, and a detailed apartment moving out checklist, you can leave your space spotless, meet your lease requirements, and get your full security deposit back.
Remember: start early, document everything, clean thoroughly, and communicate clearly with your landlord. If you need help handling the heavy lifting or logistics, professionals like Apartment Movers NYC can make the process effortless.
By following these steps, you’ll not only protect your hard-earned money but also leave behind a great rental record, setting you up for success in your next home.
BOZEMAN – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking applicants to the Region 3 Citizen Advisory Council in southwestern Montana.
The council meets several times per year and operates in an advisory capacity to help FWP be responsive and effective resource managers within the constraints of the law. Citizen advisors help identify emerging trends and potential conflicts, and they act as FWP ambassadors to various interest groups and geographic communities.
FWP employees benefit from having a deeper understanding of public priorities and expectations with help from citizen advisors, who can function as a trusted sounding board for ideas and initiatives. People who volunteer in this capacity benefit from understanding FWP programs, priorities, administrative processes and limitations in a broader context.
FWP is seeking applicants representing a variety of interests from communities across southwestern Montana within Region 3. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19.
To learn more or to apply, click here.
BOZEMAN—Tinworks Art is thrilled to announce the opening of a new downtown Bozeman site at the historic Rialto Theater, expanding the organization’s footprint and deepening its commitment to bringing contemporary art to the American West. The new space, Tinworks at Rialto, will open November 21, 2025 with Matthew Barney’s Redoubt, on view through January 2026. The presentation of Redoubt coincides with the 30th anniversary of the return of gray wolves to Yellowstone National Park, one of the most successful conservation efforts in modern history.
The addition of Tinworks at Rialto establishes a dynamic, year-round presence for contemporary art in downtown Bozeman. The space offers a flexible venue for installations, artist talks, film screenings, and performances, inviting visitors to engage with new ideas and creative experimentation at the center of the city. This complements Tinworks’ existing two-acre site on N Ida Ave comprised of a former metal manufacturing warehouse and mix of former agricultural buildings, which continue to support large-scale art projects, exhibitions, artist residencies, and experimental work.
“Bringing Tinworks into the heart of downtown strengthens our connection with the community and ensures that ground-breaking contemporary art is part of Bozeman’s daily life,” said Jenny Moore, Director of Tinworks Art. “The Rialto is a beloved local landmark and we’re thrilled to see it become a hub for new ideas and creative dialogue. It feels especially fitting to open with Matthew Barney’s Redoubt, a film that captures the magnificence and complexity of the American West and reflects Tinworks’ ongoing engagement with place, myth, history, and experimentation.”
Barney’s Redoubt was filmed in Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountain range and layers classical, cosmological, and American myths about humanity’s place in the natural world. When it premiered in 2019, the New York Times called it “breathtakingly beautiful...a western that reaches for the cosmic.” Continuing the artist’s long-standing interest in landscape as both setting and subject, Redoubt loosely adapts the myth of Diana, goddess of the hunt, and Actaeon, a hunter who trespasses on her and is punished. Like much of Barney’s work, the film contains no dialogue. The narrative is conveyed through an original score composed and orchestrated by Jonathan Bepler, the modern-dance movements of Eleanor Bauer and Laura Stokes, and the hoop dancing of Sandra Lamouche, a member of the Bigstone Cree Nation. These elements echo and foreshadow the characters’ encounter with the wildlife and terrain of the West.
Since joining Tinworks in 2023 as its inaugural director, Moore has guided the organization through a significant period of growth. Tinworks commissions and presents work by diverse artists that reflects the distinctive context of the contemporary West. Under Moore’s leadership, the organization has expanded its programming, formalized its operations, and launched major capital projects, including the addition of Tinworks at Rialto and the renovation of its mill building on N Ida Ave, set to open for the summer 2026 season. These initiatives advance Tinworks’ vision of continuous, year-round, dynamic engagement with audiences and community.
The opening of Tinworks at Rialto is a key component of this broader initiative, linking Bozeman’s historic downtown with Tinworks’ evolving campus on the edge of the city in the creative and industrial Northeast Neighborhood. In addition to Tinworks’ own programs, the Rialto space will also serve as a community resource, available for use by other local non-profits and partnering organizations for cultural and educational programming, and also offering venue rentals that provide essential support for Tinworks’ commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural ecosystem in the Gallatin Valley region.
About Tinworks Art
Tinworks Art is a non-profit art space in Bozeman, Montana. Tinworks brings together artists, their work, and community in evolving spaces, where art meets the American West. In 2022, Tinworks Art committed to a permanent home to deepen connections between artists and audiences, and to center art in this time of change. Admission to Tinworks’ exhibitions is free.
Tinworks at 719 N Ida Ave is currently open seasonally, June through October.
Tinworks at Rialto, located at 10 W Main St, is open year-round, with viewing hours Thursday through Sunday, 12 noon to 5pm, and with nightly programming.
For more information visit tinworksart.org.
On Tuesday, November 25, the Commission will consider a resolution of intent to separate the roles and responsibilities of the election administrator from the office of the Clerk and Recorder.
The resolution of intent sets a public hearing for a decision on an item the commission is considering and gives notice so that the public can participate in the decision-making process. The Commission will make their final decision during their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, December 9.
Montana law states the County Clerk & Recorder is the Election Administrator unless appointed by the County Commission. This appointment process is not part of the Gallatin County Government Study Commission.
Incumbent Clerk & Recorder Eric Semerad, who was elected in 2017, will present the resolution of intent to the board.
The resolution proposes to professionalize the position through a competitive hiring process based on qualifications and experience and would remove the requirement that the election administrator run for partisan office while ensuring the nonpartisan administration of elections. Increased county size and election complexity are among the additional reasons an appointed Election Administrator is being considered.
Among the top three Montana counties by population and number of registered voters, Gallatin is the only county that does not have an appointed election administrator. Both Missoula and Yellowstone counties employ full-time, appointed election administrators dedicated solely to running elections. Several other counties, including Cascade, Glacier, Big Horn, Lake, and Lincoln, have also appointed election administrators.
This resolution is a second attempt by an incumbent Gallatin Clerk and Recorder to separate the Election Administrator role from their elected office. In 2017, former Republican Clerk & Recorder Charlotte Mills also presented a similar resolution to Commissioners, which was unanimously denied.
Members of the public are encouraged to attend these public hearings to be held at 9 a.m. on November 25th and December 9th in the Community Room of the Gallatin County Courthouse. Hearings will be held in person, via Zoom and AV Capture. Public comment may be made in person, virtually or by emailing Commission@gallatin.mt.gov.
Montana’s work often depends on machines that run long days in wide-open spaces. Tractors drag feeders through frozen fields, excavators shape new homes on the valley floor, and utility equipment keeps rural properties in motion. All of that depends on hydraulics. When the main pump or motor starts to fade, the work that keeps many families and businesses moving can slow down in a hurry. Understanding these parts helps equipment owners keep their machines ready for whatever the next job requires.
A hydraulic pump supplies the steady force behind many of the machines used throughout the state. It converts engine power into the pressure needed to lift bales, operate buckets, steer heavy loads, and power various attachments. When a pump is in good condition, the machine responds the way the operator expects. For many ranchers and crews, that consistent response is what allows them to finish a job on time and move on to the next task waiting on the list.
Equipment usually offers a few clues before a pump or motor reaches the end of its service life. A loader might move more slowly than usual or hesitate during simple lifts. An excavator could begin to shake or make a sound that was never there before. Leaks around fittings sometimes appear during colder weather when worn components struggle to hold pressure. A faint burning smell or heat can also signal trouble. These signs often begin as small changes. Paying attention early helps prevent more serious problems and protects the rest of the hydraulic system from strain.
Hydraulic replacements generally fall into two groups. OEM parts match the components originally installed on the machine. Other manufacturers build aftermarket parts to meet the same requirements. Both options can work well, and many equipment owners mix the two depending on availability, cost, and the age of the machine.
Some equipment relies on Rexroth parts, while other models use pumps or motors from Kawasaki, Cross, Permco, or similar makers. Older equipment may need discontinued or limited-availability pieces, and certain pumps have specific fit and performance requirements. When parts need to be sourced, Mission Hydraulics provides OEM and aftermarket components that match a wide range of equipment models. The goal is to choose parts that meet the machine’s specifications so it performs consistently once repairs are complete.
Matching replacement parts begins with the basics. Manuals and model plates list important details such as pump size, flow rate, and pressure limits. These numbers make it easier to find components that work well with the machine. Owners of older tractors, excavators, or skid steers sometimes seek help when the original parts are no longer available.
Performance usually depends on selecting components that fit the system correctly. If a part varies too much from the original specifications, the machine may lose power or develop new problems. For readers who want a deeper look at how different pump styles work, this article on hydraulic pump fundamentals explains the core designs found in many pieces of equipment. Choosing a suitable replacement helps the equipment return to steady operation and protects the rest of the system from extra stress.
Work in Montana shifts throughout the year, but equipment rarely gets a long break. Ranch families keep livestock fed and properties maintained year-round. Construction schedules pick up as soon as the ground thaws. Outdoor and land-based businesses handle projects that need dependable machinery. A pump or motor failure during these periods can create delays that ripple through an entire week.
Distance, weather, and limited local inventory sometimes make it difficult to find the part a job depends on. Some ranch operations run nearly year-round, and repairs are part of that reality. The steady workload described in a feature on sustainable ranching shows how much daily activity depends on functioning equipment. With so much riding on these machines, having a reliable source for parts is an important part of keeping work on track.
Hydraulic pumps and motors support a wide range of tasks across Montana. When these components begin to weaken, equipment often shows small changes that build over time. Learning the basics of pump and motor replacement helps owners make decisions that keep their machinery dependable through busy months. With the right parts and timely repairs, equipment can continue to support the work many Montanans rely on year-round.
 |
 |
 |
 |
Give Bozeman Magazine a call at:
(406) 219-3455
info@bozemanmagazine.com(info (at) bozemanmagazine [d0t] com,)
Advertise!with Bozeman Magazine
Sign up for our Advertising Insider newsletter to be notified of upcoming deals and deadlines.
News Comments
Definitely not the quality it used to be. Mint cholate chip just has big chunks of chips stuck together not throughout the nearly mint flavored ice cream. Sorry you’ve lost me
Ownership Changes at Wilcoxson’s Ice Cream Celebrate Montana Heritage and Future Growth
Thursday, Jul. 23, 2026
Why didn’t the Kagy and 3rd project get started when college was out? How is the football game traffic at MSU going to be handled? Timing of this project is awful.
Construction Starts on West Kagy to Babcock Sewer Improvements Project
Monday, Jul. 20, 2026
Why couldn't the fish in the hatchery be raised to a marketable size and then sold to grocery stores and restaurants? The danger is only having the snails pass intact through the fish's digestive ...
Drainpipe cause of New Zealand mudsnails at FWP fish hatchery
Sunday, Apr. 12, 2026
Congratulations to Nephew David and Bridger Brewing. It has been so great seeing your vision become a reality. We'll never forget our visit to Bozeman!
Bridger Brewing Named Large Brewery of the Year at 2026 Montana Beer Awards
Tuesday, Apr. 7, 2026