We urge the Yellowstone County Commissioners to reconsider their decision and reverse their decision to cut funding to the Yellowstone Art Museum. We encourage everyone to voice their opposition to cutting county funding.

Solar energy could be a good way to power the whole world. This is because it is easy to find and does not hurt the earth. Washington Taylor, a physics professor, did a study that proved the Earth gets about 174 thousand terawatts. This means that this sign uses 10,000 times more energy than the whole world.

 
In addition, making this kind of energy does not hurt the earth. As more and more people learn about these benefits, new technologies are actively used to keep businesses running and everyday life going. As an example, solar panels for homes have become very common lately. But solar power can be used in places other than homes. For instance, compact devices will be great for working from home and traveling. You are welcome to find out more about this way to use solar energy benefits.

What gadgets can be used to work from home and go on trips?
At the moment, companies sell different kinds of solar cells. Buyers can pick standard devices that can be put on the roofs of homes or in a certain spot on the land next to the homes. They are big enough and are securely attached with special tools. You can buy special portable solar cells.
 
These gadgets are great for working from home or while traveling. That is because they are small and close together. You can now take them around and put them anywhere you want. The idea behind how movable devices work is the same as how regular solar panels in homes work. They take energy from the sun and turn it into electricity or heat.

 
The plan calls for a group of photovoltaic parts that are broken up into smaller pieces. In order to make them, thin pieces of silicon are used. Different types have different power signs. Portable solar batteries can produce up to 320 W of power. Now, it is not hard to find and buy such a gadget. Only typing "solar companies near me" into a search engine will do the trick. On the list, you will be able to find a seller whose goods meet your needs.

Why is a portable computer so important for people who work from home or travel?
You will need an extra power source if you are often on the road. As a result, it is a good idea to plan their purchase ahead of time. It can help you choose solar cells for your home, for instance. Companies that sell these kinds of things usually have a lot of different portable solar cells.
 
There will be an extra charge for this. Even so, the purchase is a good idea. It will be useful at work, on the road, or on holiday. You can always plug in your tools and other devices and get power, no matter where you are. But there is also no need to look for a way out. An energy bank turns sunlight into power, which is all you need.

How can solar panels that you can carry be used?
These batteries can be used anywhere, just like solar panels for your house. They make it possible to do many things. For example:
 
This device can charge laptops (just make sure it has a high power level); power multiple devices and heat water while moving (a 320 W device with a battery and an inverter works well for this); A 45-W portable solar battery can be used to charge music players, cell phones, tablets, and iPads while on trips. A 120-W portable solar panel can be used to power primary devices and LED lights. A 45-W portable solar battery can be used to charge the battery in the car. A 160-W compact solar panel can power devices and systems in the van.

Portable solar panels can also be used inside the house. They can be used as an extra power source for gadgets and appliances around the house.
 
What do solar panels that you can carry do?
The unique solar parts in these gadgets are made up of silicon layers. Photons are sent out when sunlight hits their skin. They help make an electric field between the layers of silicon in each section. This electricity flows to the battery or the network that was built on top of the panel through metal strips that are connected to it.

 
A specific device completely controls the output power. The energy that is made can be stored in a generator or a battery. They will need to hook up to a movable solar panel in order to do this. The package for the gadget may also come with other things. It could be a protective kit that includes stands and covers to protect against bad weather.

What are the different kinds of solar cells that you can carry around?
This is something that a lot of people already know how to do. On the other hand, they might need help buying this kind of compact machine. Before you can get rid of them, you need to deal with the two main types: regular batteries and kits. In the first group are small power banks that have a battery and solar cells.
 
They might have extra features like flashlights or maps. There is also a power cord in the package. Solar cells can be broken down into several groups:

Small gadgets that use little power. Some of these cost up to $30 and can only charge a phone a few times. Good for tourists and campers.

There are a lot of parts. These are flexible, movable solar panels that can make 20–100 W of power; these are hard batteries on a stand. Most of the time, these things make power from 50 watts.

Customers can also buy solar panel kits. The set includes a movable power generator, a controller, a battery, and extra parts like a frame or stand.

Why would you want to use portable solar panels?
People are using technologies to turn sunlight into power more and more every year. Statistics from the International Energy Agency back this up. It says that power production went from 27% to 29% in just one year, from 2019 to 2020.
 
These changes are happening because using these kinds of sources, like movable ones, has many benefits. They are a green way to get energy, just like full-size solar panels, and they can be put anywhere with sunlight. Portable gadgets are also small, simple to use, and handy. Therefore, you can use them somewhere else besides your home.

Conclusion
Portable solar panels are great for people who like to work from home or while traveling. They will be used as an app or even as a backup power source in places where there are not any outlets or ways to connect to the grid. To enjoy all the benefits, all you have to do is pick a model that fits your needs.

After a long day, whipping up a delicious dessert might feel like a daunting task. However, satisfying your sweet tooth doesn't have to take hours in the kitchen. Quick and easy desserts can be just as delightful and satisfying as their more time-consuming counterparts. Whether you crave something chocolatey, fruity, or creamy, there are plenty of recipes that require minimal effort and ingredients. This guide will explore ten dessert ideas perfect for busy weeknights, ensuring you can enjoy a sweet treat without the hassle.

1. Classic Chocolate Mug Cake
A chocolate mug cake is the ultimate quick dessert for those sudden chocolate cravings. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and a microwave. Mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, milk, vegetable oil, and a splash of vanilla extract in a mug. Stir until smooth, then microwave for about a minute. The result is a warm, gooey chocolate cake that you can enjoy straight from the mug. Top with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. This dessert is perfect for when you need something sweet in a hurry.

2. Mini Muffins with a Twist
Mini muffins are a versatile and quick dessert option. They can be customized with various add-ins to suit your taste. Homemade chocolate chip mini muffins offer plenty of options for creating delicious variations. Simply prepare a basic muffin batter, fold in mini chocolate chips, and spoon the mixture into a mini muffin tin. Bake for 10-12 minutes, and you have a batch of warm, fluffy muffins ready to enjoy. You can also experiment with other mix-ins like berries, nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. Mini muffins are not only quick to make but also easy to share or store for later.

3. Fresh Fruit Parfait
A fresh fruit parfait is a healthy and refreshing dessert that comes together in minutes. Layer your favorite yogurt with fresh fruit and granola in a glass or bowl. Berries, sliced bananas, and kiwi are great options for a colorful and nutritious parfait. Drizzle with honey or a sprinkle of nuts for added sweetness and crunch. This dessert is perfect for those who want something light yet satisfying. Plus, it's easy to customize based on the fruits you have on hand. Fresh fruit parfaits are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and nutrients.

4. No-Bake Cheesecake Bites
No-bake cheesecake bites are a delightful dessert that requires no oven time. Start by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Crush some graham crackers and press them into the bottom of mini muffin liners to form a crust. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the crust and refrigerate for at least an hour. You can top these bites with fruit preserves, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate before serving. These mini cheesecakes are perfect for satisfying your cheesecake craving without the long baking and cooling time.

5. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
Chocolate dipped strawberries are an elegant yet simple dessert that can be made in a flash. Melt your favorite chocolate in the microwave or on the stovetop, then dip fresh strawberries into the chocolate. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them set in the fridge for a few minutes. You can customize these treats by drizzling them with white chocolate or sprinkling them with crushed nuts or coconut flakes. Chocolate dipped strawberries are perfect for a quick and romantic dessert or a delightful treat for any occasion.

6. Instant Banana Pudding
Banana pudding is a classic comfort dessert that can be made quickly with instant pudding mix. Prepare the instant vanilla pudding according to the package instructions. Layer the pudding with sliced bananas and vanilla wafers in a serving dish. Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed cookies for added texture. This dessert can be made in individual cups for a fun presentation or in a large bowl for a family-style treat. The combination of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy wafers creates a delicious and satisfying dessert.

7. Microwave S'mores
Microwave s'mores bring the campfire favorite indoors with minimal effort. Place a graham cracker square on a microwave-safe plate, top with a piece of chocolate and a marshmallow, then microwave for 10-15 seconds until the marshmallow puffs up. Top with another graham cracker square and enjoy. These s'mores are perfect for a quick dessert fix and can be made year-round. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate or add a spread of peanut butter for a fun twist. Microwave s'mores are a nostalgic and easy way to enjoy a classic treat.

8. Simple Apple Crisp
A simple apple crisp is a warm and comforting dessert that can be prepared quickly. Slice a couple of apples and toss them with a bit of sugar and cinnamon. Place them in a baking dish and top with a mixture of oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence. This apple crisp is perfect for a cozy dessert on a busy weeknight.

9. Quick Berry Cobbler
Berry cobbler is another easy dessert that comes together quickly. Mix fresh or frozen berries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice, then place them in a baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, and melted butter to form a batter. Spoon the batter over the berries and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 25 minutes until the top is golden brown. This berry cobbler can be served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. It's a delicious and simple way to enjoy seasonal berries.

10. Frozen Yogurt Bark
Frozen yogurt bark is a healthy and refreshing dessert that can be made in advance. Spread a layer of Greek yogurt on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries, granola, nuts, or chocolate chips. Freeze until firm, then break into pieces. This frozen yogurt bark is a great snack or dessert that can be stored in the freezer for whenever you need a quick treat. It's a fun and easy way to enjoy yogurt and customize it with your favorite flavors.

Conclusion
Quick and easy desserts can be just as delightful and satisfying as those that take hours to prepare. From microwave mug cakes and no-bake cheesecakes to fresh fruit parfaits and chocolate dipped strawberries, there are plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth on busy weeknights. These recipes require minimal ingredients and effort, making them perfect for those times when you need a delicious dessert in a hurry. Try these ideas and enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of quick homemade treats.

HELENA – Anglers planning to fish the Eastern Fishing District need to be aware of endangered pallid sturgeon. Anglers are encountering these fish more and more each year due, in part, to successful conservation and recovery efforts.

“It is vital that anglers understand how to identify pallid sturgeon from shovelnose sturgeon,” said Zach Shattuck, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks native species coordinator. “We like to remind anglers: ‘if you don’t know, let it go.’”

Pallid sturgeon are a federally protected endangered, native fish that live in the Missouri and Yellowstone rivers and their primary tributaries such as the Marias, Milk, Powder and Tongue rivers. Pallid sturgeon are a close relative of shovelnose sturgeon and can have a strikingly similar appearance. Anglers can expect to encounter pallid sturgeon while fishing for more common species such as channel catfish, walleye, and shovelnose sturgeon.

If an angler catches a pallid sturgeon (or if they can’t identify what species the sturgeon is), the fish should be handled with extreme care and kept submerged in the water at all times. Hooks should be removed carefully (otherwise the line should be cut as close to the hook as possible for deeply hooked fish) and the fish must then be released immediately. Any sturgeon (even shovelnose sturgeon) over 40-inches in total length must be treated the same way and be released immediately.

These regulations are essential to protecting pallid sturgeon and to protect the ability to continue angling for shovelnose sturgeon.

For more information, call the main, regional, or area offices:

• Headquarters (Helena) at 406-444-2535

• Lewistown at 406-538-4658

• Glasgow at 406-228-3700

• Miles City at 406-234-0900

Tips for identifying sturgeon are located on the back of the Fishing Regulations and on signage at most fishing access sites along the Missouri and Yellowstone rivers.

Bozeman, Montana – U.S. Bank is announcing the grand re-opening of its remodeled Bozeman branch, which is located at 104 E. Main St. in Bozeman in the historic First National Bank Building. The branch features a new look and feel along with award-winning design enhancements to improve the banking experience for customers.  

To celebrate the new branch, a grand opening celebration will be held on Thursday, June 13, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony starting at 2:00 p.m. During the event, U.S. Bank will donate $2,000 to Thrive, which provides mentoring, education, and support to children and families through signature programs designed in the community. 

“This new branch design emphasizes relationship-focused banking, and we are excited to bring that experience to the Bozeman community,” said Kevin Krohn, U.S. Bank Branch Banking Market Leader for Montana, Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. “This building has had a storied history in downtown Bozeman, and we’re excited to play a part in its future. This renovation will allow our bankers to focus on having deeper conversations with our customers about their financial goals, while highlighting digital tools that can streamline traditional branch transactions.” 

Inside the branch, customers will experience state-of-the-art and easy-to-navigate advancements. Bankers are available to help customers throughout different areas of the branch, including customer support stations that provide space for one-on-one conversations and replace the common teller lines. The branch also features engagement offices that provide a space for more in-depth conversations and a branch café with coffee and other beverages for customers. An in-lobby ATM is available for “one stop banking” where customers can make deposits, get cash with their choice of denominations, pay accounts online and more, and has walk-up and drive-up ATMs. Customers also have access to specialists in business and commercial banking, wealth management, and mortgage services. 

One of the signature features of the branch is a community room available for use by customers, including nonprofit and small business customers, to hold gatherings and meetings. The space can be booked after branch hours and is equipped with a kitchenette and restroom for added convenience. 

U.S. Bank customers can also take advantage of innovative digital products and services, such as U.S. Bank’s award-winning mobile app and online banking. These platforms feature new personalized insights to make managing money easier, the U.S. Bank Smart Assistant to make getting what you need a few words away, cobrowse with live video to see the banker you are speaking with, and more. The branch’s Digital Discovery area serves as a demonstration space for customers on the use of online and mobile technologies. 

About U.S. Bank
U.S. Bancorp, with more than 70,000 employees and $684 billion in assets as of March 31, 2024, is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company serves millions of customers locally, nationally and globally through a diversified mix of businesses including consumer banking, business banking, commercial banking, institutional banking, payments and wealth management. U.S. Bancorp has been recognized for its approach to digital innovation, community partnerships and customer service, including being named one of the 2024 World’s Most Ethical Companies and Fortune’s most admired superregional bank. Learn more at usbank.com/about. 

Care must be taken with any method. Because of this, the service life is longer, the chance of breakdowns is lower, and operations stay stable. Even solar screens are like this. As long as you do the maintenance on time, you can enjoy green energy, huge savings on your utility bills, and a trouble-free system running for more than 25 years.

 
But keep in mind that solar panels are hard to take care of, and you should not do it yourself. Care must be taken when handling expensive tools with many high-tech parts. Professionals should be in charge of all of this work. There are, however, some changes that you can make yourself. In the piece, we will talk about all the different ways to take care of and fix solar panels.

 
How much do solar panels cost to keep up?
Maintenance needs to be done on the solar power systems once a year to make sure they work well. All that needs to be done is to look at their work, clean it up, look for mistakes, and fix them.
 
It is also important to check that the transformer is working properly. However, it does not last very long, but it is important for the panels to work right. Every year, you should take care of this complicated system and keep a close eye on how it works.
 
What are the signs that your solar panel needs servicing?
If you suspect that the solar panel is not working well or is deteriorating, you should contact service immediately. Since the system is expensive and intricately designed, even small issues might add up to significant costs in the long run. If you are interested in the cost of solar panel maintenance but would rather not spend so much on an estimate, think about the cost of a repair or a new system instead. The sums in question are disparate. To add insult to injury, going solar is a sure sign that cutting costs is your top priority. The value you get out of purchasing the system can go down the drain if issues with the system lower its efficiency and performance. Check out the solar panels blog to learn more about the connections between these ideas.

 
Possible reasons for scheduling maintenance are:
 
cuts to the system's energy production, decreased output power, shifts in utility costs, especially for power, recent natural disasters, and heavy precipitation (rain or snow).

In some solar systems, you can find an indicator. If a plant malfunctions, you can immediately diagnose the problem and fix it. A green light indicates that the weight is functioning correctly; a red light indicates that assistance from an expert is required.
 
What is the standard rate for maintaining solar panels?
Estimating how much the service will cost is hard. Pricing will change depending on state, inverter type, home height, system performance, panel location and design, number of panels, and other factors. But solar panel upkeep does cost about $15–$35 per panel, and a yearly health check for the whole system and its components costs $150–$300. A service call or full maintenance will cost $250–$750.

However, ground-mounted panels may be less expensive. If there are any problems, such as worn or broken parts, further expenses may be incurred.
 
Can I take care of my own stuff?
Taking care of solar systems is just as important as letting the sun shine on the panels and making power. However, do solar panels need to be in full sunlight? And does only professional repair need to be done?
 
How you serve it makes all the difference. For instance, climbing to the roof is a pretty risky job, and the panels' deep respect for their electronic parts is even more so. These jobs should only be given to people who fully understand the plan and have all the tools, ammunition, and other things they need. Professionals can promise that the panels will not get damaged and will continue to work properly right after having solar panel service done. And the bad things you do on your own can cause major breakdowns, big investments, and even the loss of your life, which is the most important thing of all. After all, if you look at something with a lot of wires and high voltage without the right information and tools, bad things can happen.
 
Still, there is one thing that is easy to keep up with: cleaning solar panels. It is not that hard, but only if you are sure of your skills. It is also suggested that you clean it more often than once a year. At the very least, it should be made after each season, but once a month is better.
 
But how can you take care of the solar panels on your roof without having to do it too often? Here are five ways to make your life easier.
 
5 easy ways to keep your solar panels in good shape
1. Throw away trash the right way.
There are many things that can mess up the smooth operation of the solar system, such as snow and rain, falling leaves in the fall, dust, dirt, and other particles. In fact, most of the dirt will slide down safely if your panels are set up correctly at an angle. So you should clean the solar panels because there may still be dirt on the surface.

 
A blower, a broom, an outdoor hose, and soft cloths or sponges are all you need to clean the device. Hard brushes and scrapers should never be used. Scratchy things will quickly leave marks on the panels because their surface is very flimsy and sensitive.
 
Do not water the panels all the way through with an outdoor hose. Water under a lot of pressure can also cause damage.
 
Setting up solar panels on the ground makes solar cleaning a lot easier because you do not have to climb up high and touch a complicated structure. Just an outdoor hose and a soft sponge are enough to clean it. Watch out not to add too much water, though.
 
Cleaning the system during the day is not good for your savings, so it is best to do it early in the morning or late at night when there is no sun.
 
No. 2: Use as few tools as possible.
Solar power is cheap and good for the world, but that does not mean you should turn on all of your appliances at once. Do not use too much of the network. If you use a lot of electronics at once, the batteries might not be able to handle it all, and you will need to use power from the local network. Also, having a lot of appliances going can damage your panels if they are not made to handle that much weight. Then the question "Are solar panels expensive to maintain?" will become less important because you will have to spend a lot of money to get the system back to normal.

No. 3: Cool down.
Because semiconductors are part of the solar panel system, a significant temperature rise can greatly diminish their performance. Of course, the screens will get hot because they need the sun to work. To get things back to normal, all you have to do is think of a free cooling system. For her, there should be at least 7 inches of space between the roof and the panes. You can also buy separate fridges and freezers.

 
4. Write down every day what the panels do.
This is how the system will work, depending on how well you take care of the solar cells. For the job to be effective, performance should be checked every day. Figuring out how much energy panels make and how the weather and other things affect this process is important. All of these things will help the panels last longer and keep them from breaking. If you see big changes in the amount of energy your system produces due to different factors, you should call a professional repair service right away.

 
5. Plan for professional maintenance
You can do a lot of maintenance on your own, but it is still important to have a professional do regular maintenance on your solar system. A trained technician can do more thorough checks and find problems that you might not be able to see right away.

Conclusion
If you want your solar system to last as long as possible and function properly, then you should follow these important guidelines. Your solar panels have the potential to generate sustainable energy for many years if you take good care of them.
 
Finally, keeping up with solar system maintenance is key to keeping your system running well and for a long time. Maintaining a faultless system is easy with the aforementioned advice. If you want your solar system to stay in the best possible shape, you need the services of our team of specialists. Get in touch with us immediately to find out how our services can maximize the return on investment from your solar energy system. 

Three Forks, Montana  - Bridger Brewing is thrilled to announce the return of its highly anticipated Summer Concert Series for 2024. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Three Forks, Montana, this year’s concert lineup promises to deliver unforgettable evenings filled with live music, delicious craft brews, and vibrant community spirit.

"We are delighted to welcome music lovers back to Bridger Brewing for another spectacular summer of live performances," said Bridger Brewing owner, David Breck. "Our Summer Concert Series has become a highlight of the season, and we can't wait to share the experience with our community once again."

From indie rock to Americana, blues to bluegrass, the 2024 lineup promises something for everyone. Attendees can look forward to toe-tapping tunes from both local favorites and nationally acclaimed acts by:

June 22 - Brews & Beats: A Benefit Concert for KGLT featuring Paige & the People’s Band, StilGone, Matt Strachan & the Hoot Owls
June 28 - Midland + Pug Johnson and the Hounds, Cactus Cuts
July 3 - Grace Potter
July 10 - Uncle Kracker
Jul 20 - Paul Cauthen + The Dead and Down, Jacob Rountree
Aug 9 - Bridger BrewGrass Night 1: The Infamous Stringdusters + Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway
Aug 10 - Bridger BrewGrass Night 2: Leftover Salmon, Railroad Earth, Yonder Mountain String Band
Aug 31 - Kitchen Dwellers + Moonlight Moonlight & North Fork Crossing

In addition to the stellar musical lineup, concert goers can also enjoy Bridger Brewing’s signature handcrafted beers and delectable bites from on-site food trucks. On-site camping options as well as an affordable shuttle bus service from their Bozeman location to the Three Forks location can also be added on when purchasing concert tickets.

Tickets for the Summer Concert Series, camping, and shuttle passes can be purchased online at Bridger Brewing’s website, www.bridgerbrewing.com/events.

Join Bridger Brewing this summer for an unforgettable celebration of music, community, and great beer. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, the Summer Concert Series promises to be an experience you won’t want to miss.

For more information and to stay updated on the latest news and announcements, visit bridgerbrewing.com or follow Bridger Brewing on social media.

About Bridger Brewing: Bridger Brewing is a beloved craft brewery with locations in
Bozeman and Three Forks, Montana. Founded in 2013, Bridger Brewing is dedicated to brewing exceptional beers using the finest ingredients and both traditional and innovative techniques. In addition to its award-winning restaurants and brews, Bridger Brewing hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including its popular Summer Concert Series at the Three Forks location.

HELENA – Hunters have until June 30 to purchase a chance for a SuperTag for the 2024 hunting season. Eight hunters will win a SuperTag license for one of the following species: moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, antelope, elk, deer, bison and mountain lion. One SuperTag will be drawn for each species. The SuperTag can be used in any hunting district in Montana – including Montana's trophy districts.

To see the number of SuperTag chances sold, hunters can check the FWP website each Monday between now and June 30. Revenue from SuperTag sales is used to enhance hunting access and boost Fish, Wildlife & Parks enforcement efforts. A Conservation License is required to purchase a SuperTag; each SuperTag chance is $5. There is no limit on the number of chances a hunter can buy.

In 2023, the Montana Legislature established a new SuperTag for residents. In addition to purchasing regular SuperTag chances, every Montana resident who purchases a general elk or deer license on or before June 30 will automatically receive one entry into the new resident SuperTag drawing. This year, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission determined the resident SuperTag will be for a moose license. Like other SuperTags, the winner will be able to hunt for moose in any moose hunting district in Montana.

To purchase chances online, go to FWP's Online Licensing Service. You’ll receive a receipt verifying purchase that lists your lottery numbers. SuperTag chances are also available for purchase at FWP offices and license providers.

Those who win a SuperTag and also draw a license or permit through FWP’s special permit license drawings will be required to surrender that license or permit before receiving the SuperTag. FWP will refund the license fee associated with the special permit or license and reinstate any bonus points. Montana’s seven-year wait for individuals who draw a moose, sheep or goat license through Montana’s special permit license drawings will not be imposed on SuperTag winners.

The drawing for SuperTags will be held in early July. To check your drawing status, go to MyFWP.

HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is looking to fill positions on two separate councils – the Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program (UGBEP) advisory council and the Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program (WHIP) advisory council.

UGBEP council

The UGBEP advisory council provides ongoing monitoring of Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program activities. Council members represent all FWP administrative regions and include upland game bird hunters, chamber of commerce memberships, landowners, upland game bird biologists and others who have conservation interests. For this position, the applicant must be a landowner residing in Region 4 or Region 6.

The UGBEP council meets two times a year and members are asked to participate in additional discussions throughout the four-year term. Council members are appointed by FWP Director Dustin Temple.

WHIP council

WHIP advisory council members are responsible for advising the department on Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program administration and for reviewing, ranking and recommending proposed projects for funding. FWP completes the final review and determines the distribution of funding. To view the interest groups represented in the council, click here. For this position, the applicant must be a farmer or represent a farming organization.

The WHIP council meets up to two times a year and members are asked to participate in additional discussions throughout the year. Council members are appointed by FWP Director Dustin Temple.

How to apply

To apply for the UGBEP council, visit fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission-councils-committees/upland-game-bird-enhancement-advisory-council. Paper applications are also available by calling 406-444-5674. Applications must be submitted by June 21. The next council meeting will be held in Charlo on Sept. 9 and 10. For more information, call Debbie Hohler at 406-444-5647, or email dhohler@mt.gov.

To apply for the WHIP council, visit fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission-councils-committees/wildlife-habitat-improvement-advisory-council. Paper applications are also available by calling 406- 444-7291. Applications must be submitted by July 19. The next council meeting will be held January of 2025. For more information, call Andrew Amidon at 406-444-7291, or email andrew.amidon@mt.gov.

BOZEMAN — A graduate student at Montana State University has been awarded a distinguished fellowship from NASA. Haley Ketteler, who is expected to graduate with a master’s degree in electrical engineering later this year, will use the Space Technology Graduate Research Fellowship to pursue her doctorate in mechanical engineering at MSU.

“Being selected as a NASA Space Technology Graduate Research Fellow is a real mark of distinction,” the space agency wrote to Ketteler. “Because of your exceptional background and potential for research, you have been chosen to develop groundbreaking, high-risk/high-payoff, early-stage space technology. Your contributions will help make science and space exploration more effective, affordable and sustainable.”

The four-year fellowship, to support Ketteler’s project “Electrochemical Impedance Sensors for Microbial Monitoring in Spacecraft Wastewater Systems,” has a maximum value of $84,000 per year that includes a stipend, health insurance, tuition and fees, and other support.

“It has been my dream to work for NASA since I was a little girl, and this is a wonderful step toward that dream,” Ketteler said. “It is also extremely encouraging to have my research interests and questions supported by established space tech developers who have a clear vision of what is needed in future space technology.”

Ketteler, who is originally from Pierre, South Dakota, is co-advised by Christine Foreman, professor of chemical and biological engineering, and Stephan Warnat, associate professor of mechanical and industrial engineering.

“This fellowship is a culmination of years of hard work on Haley’s part, and I am thrilled for her,” Foreman said. “In addition to her academic and research excellence, she is engaged with the MSU community, serving as part of the WISE leadership team and a longtime  volunteer with FIRST Robotics. I am looking forward to the opportunities this will provide for Haley to more fully engage with NASA and live out her dream.”

WISE, or Women in Science and Engineering, is a student-led group that supports graduate students of all genders in science, social science, math and engineering by providing opportunities for both professional and social development.

Ketteler’s research interests include designing and building sensors to detect biofilms in spacecraft water-reclamation systems, such as on the International Space Station. Water-reclamation systems recycle and sanitize wastewater produced by astronauts and other sources. Their plumbing and machinery are fertile ecosystems for microbial life that can form biofilms — potentially harmful communities of microbes that produce a protective slime that makes them difficult to kill or remove.

“In many future spacecraft, part of the operating procedure will be to place life-support systems into dormancy when astronauts are not on board, so we need a way to autonomously monitor the amount of biofilm in these systems to avoid system failure when emerging from dormancy. That's where the sensors I work on will come in,” Ketteler said.

Warnat praised Ketteler’s  work ethic and curiosity.

“Haley is an exceptional student, the kind you would be fortunate to have in your lab,” Warnat said. “Her diligent work ethic is matched only by her insatiable intellectual curiosity, as evidenced by her thought-provoking questions. And this is just the beginning of her journey in graduate studies.”

As part of her fellowship, Ketteler will travel to NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, to test biofilm sensors in the model systems available at the facility .

“Depending on how the testing goes, I may continue to do annual visits to MSFC or visit other centers working on the life-support systems to explore more applications of the sensors and the research being done at the different NASA facilities,” she said.