WHITEHALL – Staff at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park are pleased to reopen the cave and the upper visitor center for the 2025 season starting May 1.

In addition to tours of the cave, the park offers a variety of other recreational opportunities, including camping, trails, interpretive programs, a gift shop, café and much more.

Cave tours will be offered May 1 through Sept. 30. All cave tour tickets will be reservable until the day of, and any unsold tickets will then become available on a first-come, first-served basis at the park. Reservations can be made online at fwp.mt.gov/stateparks or by phone at 1-855-922-6768. Visitors are encouraged to check the website frequently as tour options, times and availability may change throughout the season. Tours cannot be reserved by calling the park directly.

The campground and trails are open, and the showers, comfort station and water stations will reopen as weather allows.

Paradise Tour

The Paradise Tour includes a view of the largest and most decorated room in the cave—the Paradise Room. This 1-mile tour lasts 90 minutes. It includes 15 stairs between two rooms, but the path is mostly level and wheelchair accessible. Because the Paradise Tour provides better accessibility and easier passage, this tour may be preferable for visitors with small children, claustrophobia, or those who prefer a less arduous experience. Tickets for the Paradise Tour are $10 for visitors ages 62 and older, $15 for visitors ages 15 to 61, $10 for kids ages 5 to 14, and free for anyone 4 or younger.

Classic Tour

The Classic Tour features a 2-mile journey through the majority of the developed cave and includes the second-largest and longest rooms on the cave tour. This tour lasts two hours and includes more than 600 stairs, stooping and tight squeezes. It is not recommended for visitors with claustrophobia or those with mobility limitations.

Tickets for the classic tour are $15 for visitors ages 15 and older, and $10 for kids ages 5 to 14. Children ages 4 or younger are not allowed on the Classic Tour.

Planning your visit

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is a full-service park offering a wide variety of recreational activities, including an extensive trail system for hikers and bicyclists, a large family-friendly campground with a playground and bathhouse, two visitor centers, a café serving hot and cold meals, gift shop, amphitheater, and many interpretive programs and features in addition to cave tours. Camping options include electric and non-electric sites, cabins, a wall tent, and hiker/biker sites. Access to the Jefferson River for floating or fishing is available through several nearby fishing access sites. The cave itself features one of the most decorated limestone caverns in the Northwest, filled with spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, columns and helictites.

During the summer season the upper visitor center, café and gift shop will be open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The gate for the scenic drive to the upper plaza, roadside picnic areas and Greer Gulch Trailhead will be open seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. May through September.

An $8 entrance fee is required for visitors who are not residents of Montana and not staying in the campground. Residents of the state normally pay the fee with vehicle registration.

Bats occupy some rooms that are part of the Classic Tour. Bats can be susceptible to pathogens carried by people. For this reason, visitors are asked not to wear any clothing, shoes or accessories—including glasses, jewelry and cameras—that have been in another cave or mine in the past two years. This helps protect bat populations at the Caverns. White-nose syndrome, a fungus capable of killing entire bat colonies, can be transmitted easily and does not come out of clothing or other materials with normal washing methods. While it does not affect humans, it could have significant impacts to the cave ecosystem.

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is about 15 miles southeast of Whitehall along Montana Highway 2. For more information about the park, click here or call 406-287-3541.

In a follow-up to an earlier release, law enforcement confirms that Travis Kamps, a 40-year-old resident of Belgrade, has been taken into custody and formally charged with felony theft following an incident that occurred this morning on Baker Street.

According to initial reports, at about 6:30 AM today, Kamps allegedly stole a vehicle from a residence while the owner was present. The vehicle owner witnessed the theft and pursued the suspect until Kamps abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot. Witnesses reported that Kamps may have been in possession of a rifle at the time he fled.

A coordinated response involving the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, Belgrade Police Department, and Montana Highway Patrol initiated an extensive search of the area. After several hours, Kamps was located on Countryside Lane and taken into custody without incident.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank Belgrade Police Department, Montana Highway Patrol and the public for the help provided during this investigation.

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The suspect from this morning’s search in Belgrade has been taken into custody without incident. There is no ongoing threat to the community. Additional information will be shared as it becomes available.

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In the early morning hours of Sunday, April 20, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a stolen vehicle. The suspect later abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot, reportedly carrying what appeared to be a rifle.

Deputies are actively searching the area and have issued a shelter-in-place advisory for residents in the 2600 block of Amsterdam Road in Belgrade.

The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 6 feet 3 inches tall, weighing around 225 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a tan hat, blue jeans and a grey coat. He is believed to be armed with a rifle.

If you see someone matching this description or notice suspicious activity in the area, please call 911 immediately. Do not approach the suspect.

The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office will provide updates as new information becomes available.

4/29/25 Update

The Gallatin City-County Health Department (GCCHD) has confirmed two additional measles cases among household members of previously identified cases in Gallatin County, bringing the total number of cases to seven. These individuals, who were not immunized against measles, were being monitored for symptoms while isolating at home.

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The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) and the Gallatin City-County Health Department (GCCHD) are reporting Montana’s first cases of measles since 1990.

The GCCHD is investigating five confirmed cases of measles. The individuals are children and adults who were exposed to measles while traveling outside of Montana. The cases reside in Gallatin County and are currently isolated at home. All five individuals are unvaccinated, or vaccine status is unknown. The GCCHD continues to assess any potential exposures while the individuals were contagious and are contacting the people who may have been exposed. People potentially exposed are being provided with information about the exposure date and disease symptoms to watch out for.

The GCCHD has determined that there are points of exposure to the general public. Potential exposures to the public can be found on the GCCHD website and will be updated as needed or as more information becomes available. The spread of measles can occur before people know they have the disease, and before any rash appears. The times listed on the website include the period when the exposure occurred and two hours after.

Individuals who are immune to measles through vaccination, laboratory evidence of immunity, laboratory confirmation of disease, or were born before 1957 are not considered at risk for infection. Individuals without prior measles infection or vaccination have a 90% likelihood of contracting the disease if exposed.

“While it is unfortunate to have cases of measles after 35 years of disease inactivity in Montana, we have been working diligently with our local partners to prepare,” said DPHHS Public Health Physician, Dr. Maggie Cook-Shimanek. “We are confident that our public health and clinical partners will work together and address this situation as quickly as possible. It is important for everyone to know their vaccination status and to visit with their health department or health care provider if they are unsure.”

If you are unsure of your vaccination status, here are a few places you can review:

• Call your old high school, college, or university and ask if they have vaccination records.
• Contact your doctor’s office, urgent care, or pediatrician. Even if you have not been there in years, they may still have records.
• Reach out to the health department where you grew up.
• Check your home state immunization registries.

Measles is a highly infectious airborne disease that typically begins with a fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, white spots in the mouth, and a red rash that appears about 14 days after exposure. The rash usually starts on the face and spreads downward to the rest of the body. It is particularly dangerous for infants for whom vaccination is generally not recommended until 12 months of age. Maintaining a high level of vaccination in the community helps protect infants who are too young to be vaccinated, as well as individuals who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.

“Measles is highly contagious and highly preventable with vaccination, and ensuring people are immunized remains our best defense. If people are unable to find their vaccine records, there are no contraindications to receiving an additional dose,” said Dr. Peter Bulger, GCCHD Medical Director.

Measles continues to be prevalent in many regions worldwide, resulting in an estimated 300 deaths every day. Cases in the U.S. are generally rare but have been increasing in recent years.

The best way to protect against measles is vaccination. No changes have been made to the existing measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine recommendations in the United States. Two doses of MMR, a measles-containing vaccine that protects against measles, mumps and rubella, are 97 to 99 percent effective in preventing measles. Measles vaccines have been available in the U.S. since 1963, and two doses have been recommended for children since 1989.

If you are in need of the MMR vaccine, please call your primary care physician as soon as possible. GCCHD does have MMR vaccine available, please call 406-582-3100 to make an appointment.

“We are actively working with individuals who are experiencing symptoms,” said Lori Christenson, Gallatin City-County Health Officer. “We greatly appreciate the cooperation of those involved in helping mitigate further exposures. We encourage anyone who is not vaccinated or unsure of their vaccination history to consider vaccination and to contact your health care provider or GCCHD. By getting vaccinated we protect ourselves and others around us from infection.”

For more information about measles and the measles vaccine, visit the state health department’s website. Additional information can also be found on the CDC’s website.

BOZEMAN – In a firm stand against sexual violence, the Gallatin County Attorney’s Office has successfully secured a conviction in the case of Christopher Vottie Armstrong, holding him accountable for his crimes. This outcome underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting victims and prosecuting those who commit acts of sexual crime.

Armstrong, 31 years old, pleaded guilty to Sexual Intercourse without Consent for engaging in sexual intercourse with a 14-year-old child. He has been sentenced to 10 years to the Montana State Prison, with all but 4 years suspended. He’s to have no contact with the victim, have no unsupervised contact with minors, complete sex offender treatment, and register as a sexual offender. This resolution provides justice for the survivor while reinforcing our dedication to making Gallatin County a safer place for our children.

Gallatin County Attorney Audrey Cromwell stated, “Sexual violence will not be tolerated in our community. We stand with survivors, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute offenders while working with our partners to provide support and resources for those affected.”

The Gallatin County Attorney’s Office extends its deepest appreciation to the following agencies and individuals for their dedication and commitment in bringing this case to justice:

Bozeman Police Department Officers Coby Ybarra, Anthony Taylor, Andrew Kappler, and Troy Fraley; Victim Advocate Stacy Wesen, and Chief Deputy County Attorney Shannon Foley.

Their relentless efforts were instrumental in achieving this outcome and ensuring justice for the survivor.

Thrive is proud to join organizations across the country in celebrating the first-ever National Home Visiting Week, taking place April 21–25. This new observance shines a spotlight on the critical role home visitors play in supporting maternal and child health, family wellbeing, and community resilience.

Thrive’s Partnership Home Visiting Program has been a cornerstone of our mission for 30 of our 39 years serving families. Through this program, young parents—many of them under the age of 21—receive weekly home visits for up to two years. Our dedicated staff work side by side with families to track child development, set goals, and provide tailored support to ensure each child and parent can thrive.

Thrive aims for at least 90% of children in the program to meet or exceed developmental milestones. But this program isn’t just about the kids—it's about empowering the entire family. That means making sure parents have access to education, job training, healthcare, and child care—everything they need to build a solid foundation.

Home visiting programs like Thrive’s are offered in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. In 2023 alone, over 280,000 families across the U.S. engaged in these life-changing services.

Starting a family is one of the most important chapters in a person’s life. This program gives parents the tools to understand that they are not only their child’s first teacher—they’re also shaping their family’s future.

Throughout National Home Visiting Week, organizations are highlighting the work of home visitors on social media and other platforms. Thrive is proud to recognize our own team—Cindy Ballew, Katie Arnold, and Sophia Rodriguez—whose compassion and dedication are at the heart of everything we do.

These three remarkable women humbly serve families every day. Now, we ask for the community’s help to support them in return. Consider showing your appreciation by donating a gas or grocery gift card ($25, $50, or $100). A single gift can help provide a family with gas for a day or groceries for up to two weeks.

At Thrive, we believe that when we build a healthy child, we build a healthy adult. And a community of healthy adults is a resilient, empowered, and thriving one.

To learn more about the Partnership Home Visiting Program or to contribute, please visit allthrive.org/programs.

Thank you to home visitors everywhere—and thank you, readers, for supporting our community.

BOZEMAN – Montana State University will welcome the public to a groundbreaking celebration for the planned expansion of Montana PBS on Tuesday, April 29, at 3 p.m.

The groundbreaking will be held at the site of the building expansion, MSU’s Visual Communications Building at the corner of South 11th Avenue and Grant Street. The expansion will add more than 32,000 square feet to the building, which houses Montana PBS and MSU’s School of Film and Photography.

“Designed to be both an advanced technological production facility and an inspiring, collaborative hub for students, the expanded Visual Communications Building will empower Montana PBS to tell Montana’s story with more depth, clarity and creativity than ever before,” said Aaron Pruitt, Montana PBS director and general manager.

The renovation will include a shared lobby connecting MSU's School of Film and Photography and the offices of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks, KGLT Radio and Montana PBS, an area intended to encourage student collaboration across artistic disciplines. In addition, new, state-of-the-art technology and production spaces will increase Montana PBS’s current capabilities. The expansion will include a large TV studio, production control rooms, a green screen studio, video editing suites and other broadcast technology.

The building will be home to the new Joseph S. Sample classroom and studio, which will serve as a screening venue, lecture hall, event center and production studio. Its versatility and large capacity of 192 seats will allow it to host large enrollment MSU core classes (including SFP’s FILM 101), live audience televised productions and university events.

“Montana PBS has been a cornerstone of the MSU community and a fixture in Montana life for four decades. This expansion will make it possible for Montana PBS to do even more to serve the families and communities in Montana and provide valuable opportunities for Montana State students,” said MSU President Waded Cruzado.

Immediately following the groundbreaking ceremony, a live in-person appearance by Clifford the Big Red Dog will offer fans an opportunity for photos in the Montana PBS studio. Clifford the Big Red Dog is a well-known character from animated educational TV shows on the PBS Kids channel.

Kristina Martin, Montana PBS director of development, said fundraising for the Building Possibilities campaign began in early 2019.

“In the six years since, Montana PBS has raised nearly $32 million needed to move forward, though we anticipate we will need to raise additional funds before construction is complete," she said. Martin credited Cruzado for her strong support of this project, including her support of fundraising efforts.

Approximately $29.5 million will go toward construction, with the remaining $2 million allocated for new and upgraded technology to expand Montana PBS’s ability to produce award-winning content. Montana PBS’s creative team has received national recognition for programs like “11th & Grant with Eric Funk” and documentaries like “Ivan Doig: Landscapes of a Western Mind.”

This expansion will also support academic mentorship of MSU students. Montana PBS engages MSU students from every department, especially live TV production. For example, students make up the majority of the production crew for Bobcat Athletics broadcasts, commencement and convocation ceremonies, and other high-profile livestreamed events, experiences which develop professional skills in an academic setting that deliver on MSU’s reputation for hands-on learning.

Nikki Vradenburg, Montana PBS director of education, said the expansion will also further education and outreach efforts. “Montana PBS trains teachers, daycare providers and parents with media literacy and other educational resources to better serve their students, communities and families,” she said.

Montana PBS’s Building Possibilities campaign attracted gifts from scores of donors across the state. Key donors include Patt and Terry Payne of Missoula; the Kendeda Fund; Jim and Chris Scott; the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust; the Otto Bremer Trust; and the late Joseph S. Sample, one of the station’s founders.

“Who knew that a grassroots effort that started because I wanted my kids to be able to watch ‘Sesame Street’ would grow into this?” said Nancy Flikkema, co-founder of Montana PBS and another key donor. “I’m proud to have been a part of this organization for the past 40 years and to see how far it’s come.”

Montana PBS recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. Founded in 1984, KUSM-TV at MSU partnered with the University of Montana’s KUFM-TV in 1997 to become Montana PBS. The statewide network now broadcasts five channels with more than 275,000 Montanans viewing each week.

BOZEMAN – Recreationists may see several construction and habitat-enhancement projects happening in southwestern Montana this month. Temporary closures may be in effect for some sites during construction.

This month, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff plan to install a new boat ramp and perform streambank restoration at Cornell Park Fishing Access Site along the Beaverhead River near Dillon. This work will improve river access for visitors and reduce soul erosion along 350 feet of streambank. Due to heavy equipment operations, the site will be closed starting Monday, April 21. The site is expected to reopen May 1 after the project’s completion.

As part of the streambank restoration at Cornell Park, crews will be transplanting willows from Poindexter Slough Fishing Access Site nearby. The portion of Poindexter Slough Fishing Access Site north of Highway 222 and east of the railroad tracks will be closed while crews harvest willows. This closure will impact the east parking lot and lands directly north of the parking lot from April 21 through 25.

FWP fisheries staff this month will begin a fish habitat enhancement project in other areas of Poindexter Slough, a tributary to the Beaverhead River. The goal of the project is to add large woody debris in several areas to improve spawning habitat for trout. Site visitors may see this work happening from April 22 through May 2.

Road maintenance and excavation is also planned for Cabbage Gulch Road, which is one of the entrances to Mount Haggin Wildlife Management Area south of Anaconda. The road will be closed April 21 through 23. Mount Haggin WMA’s seasonal closure for wintering wildlife remains in effect. Portions of the WMA west of the Continental Divide are closed until noon on May 15, and areas east of the divide are open year-round.

Site reconstruction is underway at Ennis and Valley Garden fishing access sites along the Madison River. Both sites remain closed. These areas suffered damage from flooding this winter, including washed-out roads and significant sediment deposits. These sites will be reopened as soon as conditions allow.

For more information about temporary restrictions and closures at FWP sites, click here.

GREAT FALLS – Like many Montanans do this time of year, a man was shed hunting in north-central Montana near Dupuyer on Friday. The man was searching for antlers on a brushy hillside when he first saw a bear. As he was leaving the area, the bear charged him at close range. He shot and killed the bear. Fortunately, the man was uninjured.

The bear was an adult female grizzly in good condition with no history of conflict and was estimated to be 13 years old and weighing around 250 pounds.

Be bear aware

Montana is bear country. Grizzly bear populations continue to become denser and more widespread in Montana, increasing the likelihood that residents and recreationists will encounter them in more places each year.

Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with conflicts. Here are some precautions to help residents, recreationists and people who work outdoors avoid negative bear encounters:

• Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it immediately.
• Travel in groups whenever possible and make casual noise, which can help alert bears to your presence.
• Stay away from animal carcasses, which often attract bears.
• Follow food storage orders from the applicable land management agency.
• If you encounter a bear, never approach it. Leave the area when it is safe to do so.
• Keep garbage, bird feeders, pet food and other attractants put away in a secure building. Keep garbage in a secure building until the day it is collected. Certified bear-resistant garbage containers are available in many areas.
• Never feed wildlife. Bears that become food conditioned lose their natural foraging behavior and pose threats to human safety. It is illegal to feed bears in Montana.

Though they have reached recovery levels in the Northern Continental Divide and Greater Yellowstone Ecosystems, grizzly bears in the lower 48 states are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Management authority for grizzlies rests with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, working closely in Montana with FWP, the Forest Service, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Geological Survey, Wildlife Services, and Native American tribes. This collaboration happens through the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee.

For more information and resources on bear safety, visit fwp.mt.gov/conservation/wildlife-management/bear.

Incident Note: The sow had a single yearling cub that was found on site, unharmed. No management action will be taken for the yearling.

Image Courtesy Pexels

Dogs can suffer from a wide range of allergies, just like humans.

Common triggers include certain foods, environmental factors like pollen or mold, and even flea saliva. Also, some dogs may react to materials they come into contact with, such as cleaning products or grooming supplies.

These allergies can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, ranging from skin irritation to respiratory issues. Without proper attention, minor reactions could escalate into more serious health concerns.

Recognizing the signs early is key to keeping your furry companion healthy and happy. So, let’s explore ways to detect signs of allergies before they start causing bigger problems.

Check for Changes in Your Dog's Skin and Coat

Subtle changes in your dog’s skin or coat often point to underlying allergies.

Dry patches, redness, flakiness, or even small bumps might signal irritation. These could be due to environmental factors like pollen or food-related allergens.

Hair loss around certain spots is another indicator to watch out for.

Feel your dog’s coat regularly during grooming sessions. Notice any areas that seem more sensitive than usual.

If you notice any changes, make sure you contact your veterinarian.

Watch Out for Excessive Scratching, Licking, or Chewing

Frequent scratching, licking, or chewing could mean your dog’s dealing with more than just an itch. Paws, belly areas, and ears are common hotspots where discomfort shows up first.

Dogs with allergies might scratch, lick, or chew constantly. Left unchecked, it could lead to open sores or infections.

So, keep a close eye on your dog for these signs. And observe whether certain times of day trigger the behavior.

If you notice these habits worsening over time, reach out to a vet. Early intervention helps avoid complications and provides relief faster.

Keep an Eye on Seasonal Behavior Shifts

Dogs can develop allergies triggered by changes in the environment. If symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, or itchiness flare up during specific times of the year, seasonal allergens could be at play.

For instance, pollen levels are higher in spring and fall. Dogs sensitive to it might avoid outdoor time or appear restless after walks.

Track these patterns during different seasons. Share your observations with your vet for tailored advice.

Look at Ears, Eyes, and Paws Closely

Allergic reactions often show up in places you might overlook.

For instance, redness inside the ears or excessive wax buildup can signal irritation.

Similarly, watery eyes or slight swelling around them may indicate discomfort.

And check your dog’s paws for redness between the toes or cracked pads - they could be reacting to something they’re walking on.

Gently clean sensitive spots regularly and monitor changes. If problems persist despite care, consult your vet promptly for further evaluation.

Note Respiratory Symptoms like Sneezing or Wheezing

Respiratory issues can be subtle signs of allergies. If your dog sneezes more than usual, wheezes after mild activity, or has nasal discharge, their airways might be reacting to an irritant.

Dogs exposed to dust mites, mold spores, or pollen often show these symptoms.

Keep living areas clean and vacuum frequently if you suspect airborne triggers.

Persistent respiratory discomfort needs vet attention to rule out infections or chronic allergy conditions.

Monitor Eating Habits for Unusual Patterns

Your dog’s eating habits can offer valuable clues about allergies. Watch for a sudden lack of appetite, picky behavior, or frequent vomiting after meals. These changes could mean their current diet isn’t sitting well.

Pay attention to stools as well - loose or irregular bowel movements might indicate a food allergy.

Switching foods gradually and consulting your vet helps pinpoint problem ingredients.

Catching dietary issues early on spares your dog from ongoing distress and keeps mealtimes enjoyable.

Use a Dog Allergy Test Kit

Allergies can be tricky to diagnose, especially when symptoms overlap with various triggers like pollen, dust, or certain foods. A reliable way to uncover these hidden culprits is by using an at-home kit, such as a dog food allergies test.

Allergy tests help you determine whether things like environmental factors or dietary sensitivities are behind your dog’s discomfort.

With the results in hand, you can work with your vet to create an effective plan for managing and eliminating allergens from your dog’s life!

The Bottom Line

Early detection of allergies in dogs prevents unnecessary discomfort and long-term health issues.

By staying observant, using tools like testing kits, and consulting your vet, you can ensure your dog stays happy, healthy, and free from allergy-related stress and discomfort.