Explore Big Sky - October 2nd to October 15th

Oct. 2 - Oct. 15, 2025

Volume 16 // Issue 20

OKTOBERFEST STRONG IN THIRD YEAR

BOZEMAN AT ODDS OVER HOUSING CODE PROPOSAL IN YEAR OVER PROPOSAL

LONE PEAK FILM FESTIVAL DEBUTS

PEAK FILM DEBUTS

OPINION: SUPPORT GYREAT ACT

OPINION: GYREAT ACT

BIG SKY TO CELEBRATE HOMECOMING, COMMUNITY WEEK

BIG SKY CELEBRATE HOMECOMING, COMMUNITY WEEK

PUBLISHER

Eric Ladd | eric@theoutlawpartners.com

EDITORIAL

VP MEDIA

Mira Brody | mira@theoutlawpartners.com

SENIOR EDITOR

Jack Reaney | jack@theoutlawpartners.com

STAFF WRITER

Jen Clancey | jen@theoutlawpartners.com

LOCAL JOURNALIST

Leslie Kilgore | leslie@theoutlawpartners.com

DIGITAL MEDIA LEAD

Fischer Genau | fischer@theoutlawpartners.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Carli Johnson | carli@theoutlawpartners.com

CREATIVE

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Radley Robertson | radley@theoutlawpartners.com

SALES AND OPERATIONS

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Josh Timon | josh@theoutlawpartners.com

CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER

Megan Paulson | megan@theoutlawpartners.com

VP DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Hiller Higman | hiller@theoutlawpartners.com

DIRECTOR OF RELATIONSHIPS

Ersin Ozer | ersin@theoutlawpartners.com

MARKETING MANAGER

Tucker Harris | tucker@theoutlawpartners.com

CONTENT MARKETING LEAD

Taylor Owens | taylor.owens@theoutlawpartners.com

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

Sara Sipe | sara@theoutlawpartners.com

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LEAD

Patrick Mahoney | patrick@theoutlawpartners.com

ACCOUNT COORDINATOR

Ellie Boeschenstein | ellie@theoutlawpartners.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Micah Berman, Abby Butler, Scott Christensen, Kristin Gardner, Rachel Hergett, Benjamin Alva Polley

TABLE OF CONTENTS

OKTOBERFEST STRONG IN THIRD YEAR

Benefitting local youth athletes, Oktoberfest was bigger than ever in its third year. EBS captured photos from the three-day event on Saturday, Sept. 27.

Dana and Larry Wikan, founders of Big Sky Oktoberfest, pose with steins before getting back to work at their third annual event on Sept. 27. PHOTO BY

JACK REANEY

EDITORIAL POLICIES

EDITORIAL POLICY

Outlaw Partners, LLC is the sole owner of Explore Big Sky. EBS reserves the right to edit all submitted material. Printed material reflects the opinion of the author and is not necessarily the opinion of Outlaw Partners or its editors. EBS will not publish anything discriminatory or in bad taste.

EBS welcomes obituaries written by family members or from funeral homes. To place an obituary, please submit 500 words or less to media@theoutlawpartners.com.

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BIG SKY TO CELEBRATE HOMECOMING, COMMUNITY WEEK

Local pride and engagement will highlight the week of Monday, Oct. 6 to Friday, Oct. 10, between Big Sky Community Week and Big Sky School District Homecoming. The fourth annual weeklong event is hosted by the Big Sky Resort Area District and Big Sky Chamber of Commerce.

BOZEMAN AT ODDS OVER HOUSING CODE PROPOSAL

This November, Bozeman residents will have the chance to vote on the controversial Bozeman Water Adequacy Initiative, a proposal that aims to address affordable housing and water availability in the city, but has the city, developers and supporters of the initiative at odds. EBS dives in.

LONE PEAK FILM FESTIVAL DEBUTS

25

37 15

A new Big Sky festival enjoyed success in its first year, featuring films under four core pillars: Montana stories, Indigenous stories, conservation stories and stories of human resilience. EBS spoke with organizers about the inaugural festival and visions for the future.

OPINION: SUPPORT GYREAT ACT

Guest columnist Kristin Gardner shares her strong support for Rep. Ryan Zinke’s Greater Yellowstone Recreation and Tourism Enhancement Act. The proposed bill would protect the Madison and Gallatin rivers, and Gardner expresses why that’s so important to her as leader of the Gallatin River Task Force.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Letters to the editor allow EBS readers to express views and share how they would like to effect change. These are not Thank You notes. Letters should be 250 words or less, respectful, ethical, accurate, and proofread for grammar and content. We reserve the right to edit letters and will not publish individual grievances about specific businesses or letters that are abusive, malicious or potentially libelous. Include: full name, address, phone number and title. Submit to media@outlaw.partners.

ADVERTISING DEADLINE

For the October 16th issue: October 10th , 2025 CORRECTIONS

Please report errors to media@outlaw.partners.

OUTLAW PARTNERS & EXPLORE BIG SKY P.O. Box 160250, Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-2055 • media@theoutlawpartners.com ©2025 Explore Big Sky unauthorized reproduction prohibited

BRIEFS

NEWS IN BRIEF

WMPAC ANNOUNCES FALL PERFORMANCES

EBS STAFF

On Sunday, Oct. 5, the Warren Miller Performing Arts Center will welcome “Collision of Rhythm” for a high-energy percussion performance to begin its 2025 fall performance lineup.

The two-person group mixes music, rhythm, comedy and audience interaction in a way that feels fresh and unforgettable, according to a WMPAC press release. The duo has been featured on “The Tonight Show,” “America’s Got Talent” and a Super Bowl commercial.

“We always think of the off-season in Big Sky as being quiet with nothing to do,” WMPAC Executive Director John Zirkle stated in the release. “But we have plenty of nights of entertainment for you and the family.”

After “Collision of Rhythm,” the series continues Sunday, Oct. 19 with a children-oriented act called “Gary’s Variety Show,” blending juggling, audience participation and classic vaudeville for a family-focused evening. The release noted it’s a show best suited for families with young children.

For a local Halloween-themed flavor, Lone Peak High School students will perform “The Addams Family” on Oct. 26. “In addition to nationally recognized, award-winning performers, the fall season at WMPAC also brings opportunities for Big Sky locals to demonstrate their own talents,” the release stated.

On Thursday, Nov. 13, local adults with Big Sky Community Theater will perform “Arsenic and Old Lace,” a Broadway classic farce about two seemingly sweet sisters whose idea of charity work has a dark and hilarious twist.

A “genre-bending,” “boundary breaking” string quartet follows on Sunday, Nov. 16. The group, Invoke, weaves together classical, folk, bluegrass, jazz and original works into a unique sound featuring violin, viola, mandolin, banjo and vocals. Invoke has previously performed at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center.

The fall series wraps up on Dec. 6, with a spotlight on talented local women. “Her Gift, Her Creation” features musical performances and a gallery of local artwork.

Tickets to all the events are available at WMPAC’s website, warrenmillerpac.org

MSU TO HOST BLUE & GOLD GALA TO BENEFIT BOBCAT STUDENT ATHLETES

EBS STAFF

Montana State University will host its annual Blue & Gold Gala on Friday, Oct. 10 at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse. Organized by the MSU Bobcat Club, the gala serves as the primary fundraiser to support scholarships for student athletes across MSU’s athletic programs.

The evening will feature a hosted cocktail hour, dinner, and both silent and live auctions, where attendees can bid on exclusive MSU memorabilia, travel packages, unique experiences and locally donated items, according to a press release.

MSU Athletics stated on its website that the gala is “an evening to celebrate Bobcat Athletics,” and a way for fans and alumni to help invest in the future of Bobcat student athletes. Proceeds from the gala directly support the Bobcat Club’s annual scholarship fund, which is critical to recruiting and retaining talented athletes across the university’s sports offerings.

The gala will run from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are available on the Bobcat Club’s website.

CORRECTIONS NOTICE

In an article published in 2023, we misidentified an individual named Matt Narciso. The article referred to the wrong person of the same name. We wish to clarify that the intended subject was a different Matt Narciso, not the one initially mistakenly identified.

Accuracy is central to our reporting, and we take full responsibility for our mistake. We apologize to Mr. Narciso and our readers for any confusion this may have caused.

CONNECT. COLLABORATE. CREATE.

BIG SKY

Community Week

COMMUNITY WEEK IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: 06 07 10

MONDAY, OCTOBER 6

8 - 9:30 am

Community Coffee · Social Impact Hub

Start the week with coffee, a light breakfast, and great conversation with community partners from the Social Impact Hub.

9:15 - 10:15 am

Workout-Barre · Big Sky Fitness Fusion

A low-impact full body workout. Advanced registration required.

10:30 - 11:30 am

Kids’ Story Time · BASE

Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers to build social connections and develop early literacy.

12 - 1 pm

Workout-Pilates · BASE

A low-impact core-focused workout for all abilities. Advanced registration required.

4 - 6 pm

Community Cocktails · Big Sky Center for the Arts

Fun filled, family-friendly happy hour with live music; one drink ticket per guest. Get creative with family arts & crafts from 4–5pm in the Artventure Tent.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7

7:30 - 8:30 am

Workout-Rise & Shine Yoga · Santosha Wellness Center

Develop strength, flexibility and focus for all levels. Advanced registration required.

10 - 11 am

Workout-Strength & Conditioning · Moving Mountains

Strength and conditioning to keep your heart rate up and muscles moving. Advanced registration required.

4 - 5 pm

Kids’ Art Class · Big Sky Center for the Arts

Kids ages 6-10 are invited to get creative with the Arts Council of Big Sky. Advanced registration required.

5 - 8 pm

State of the Community

Warren Miller Performing Arts Center

Join in the conversation with local leaders on key topics impacting our community.

Events with an “Open House” icon indicate you can drop in anytime during listed hours. Otherwise events start at the time shown.

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8

9 - 11 am

BSRAD/Joint County Commission Meeting

The Wilson Attend the bi-annual meeting of your locally elected officials from Big Sky Resort Area District (BSRAD), Gallatin County and Madison County.

3:30 - 4:30 pm

Workout-Strength & Conditioning · Moving Mountains Strength and conditioning to keep your heart rate up and muscles moving. Advanced registration required.

7 - 9 pm

Trivia · The Waypoint Test your knowledge when Community Week takes over trivia night.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9

8 - 9:30 am

Community Coffee · Marty Pavelich Ice Rink

Join Big Sky’s youth hockey community for a cup of coffee and light breakfast.

10 - 11 am

Workout-Seasonal Conditioning · BASE

A HIIT style class with a mix of strength and cardio. Advanced registration required.

12 - 2 pm

Pizza with a Purpose · Big Sky Chapel

Join the Coordinating Council of Big Sky (CCBS) to learn, ask questions, and voice your opinion about the work being done across our community to achieve Our Big Sky Vision.

4 - 6 pm

Community Appreciation Celebration · Len Hill Park

Come together with neighbors, friends and family to enjoy live music, food and fun activities for all ages.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10

8 - 9 am

Workout-Yoga Silks · Big Sky Fitness Fusion

Use a silk hammock to guide your body through yoga postures and take your practice to the next level. Advanced registration required.

9 - 10:15 am

Workout-All Levels Yoga · Santosha Wellness Center

All levels yoga class where you can nourish or challenge your body. Advanced registration required.

3 - 6 pm

The Great Pumpkin Giveaway · Len Hill Park

Make a donation of 10 cans, 10 lbs, or $10 (per pumpkin)

for our local food bank and search the “U-pick Pumpkin Patch” to pick out your prize pumpkin. SCAN

and to register for events.

OBITUARY

HARALD F. RING

JUNE 12, 1943 – AUG. 29, 2025

Harry Ring, 82, of Big Sky, passed away on Aug. 29, 2025.

Born in Norway on June 12, 1943, to Esther Jorgensen Ring and John Lars Ring, Harry led a vibrant life rooted in adventure, athleticism, and love—especially for his wife of nearly 59 years, Peggy Winn Ring.

An accomplished skier from a young age, Harry began skiing at age three and was competing in cross-country events by ten. He went on to excel in Nordic Combined and gymnastics at Shoreline High School in Washington, qualifying for the Nordic Junior Nationals four consecutive years. His athletic talent earned him a ski scholarship to Montana State College (now MSU), where he joined the Bobcat ski team.

Harry’s passion for skiing extended into his professional life. He became a certified alpine ski instructor, clinician, and examiner with the Northern Rocky Mountain Ski Association, and spent a decade racing in the Masters Ski Racing program. In 1995, he earned gold medals in both the downhill and combined events at Mount Alyeska.

He co-owned the ski department at Bozeman’s Beaver Pond and later became co-owner and manager of Lone Mountain Sports at Big Sky, where he helped shape the local ski community with his energy, expertise, and leadership.

Outside of ski season, Harry was a longtime commercial fisherman in Alaska, a career he humorously described as “a summer job I never quit.” Starting at 16, he spent more than 55 years

PEGGY WINN RING

FEB. 13, 1944 – SEPT. 15, 2025

Peggy Winn Ring passed away on Sept. 15, 2025, reuniting with her beloved husband, Harry. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, and raised along the Hudson River in New York, Peggy was a spirited and adventurous soul. She was a skilled sailor, a dedicated educator, a passionate skier, and a fearless explorer of the outdoors.

After graduating from Montana State College in 1966, Peggy married Harry and began a life filled with love, creativity, and community. They were among the early pioneers of Big Sky, Montana, where Peggy made her mark as a teacher, ski instructor, horseback rider, business owner, artist, and dear friend to many.

Her boundless energy, artistic flair, and deep love for nature inspired everyone who knew her. A devoted Christian Scientist, Peggy lived her life with grace, strength, and unwavering positivity.

Peggy’s legacy is one of kindness, courage, and a deep appreciation for life’s beauty. She will be missed dearly.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter. A celebration of life for both Peggy and Harry will be held July 2026.

in the industry, eventually owning and operating a fleet of three vessels.

Harry met Peggy Winn while attending MSU, and the couple married after graduation. Together, they shared a lifetime of adventure—skiing, horseback riding, tennis, golf, windsurfing, and sailing. They divided their time between Montana and Florida, always returning to Big Sky for ski season.

Known for his warmth, generosity, and ever-present

smile, Harry was a friend to all. His signature bear hugs and easy laugh left lasting impressions, and he lived by the simple philosophy: speak kindly of others.

He is survived by a wide circle of friends and extended family who cherished his presence. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

IT HAS BEEN 16 DAYS SINCE EVERGREEN AND CHARLIE KIRK: WHY ARE WE ALREADY MOVING ON?

BY ERIC LADD PUBLISHER

It has been 21 days since the Evergreen High School shooting in Colorado and the assassination of Charlie Kirk. And yet, scanning the media airwaves, I’m struck by how quickly the conversation has already shifted away from violence, guns and mental health.

It reminds me of driving past a car wreck. We all slow down, look, feel emotion, maybe even imagine ourselves in the scene. For a brief moment we carry compassion. But then we press the gas, the wreck fades in the rearview mirror, and soon it’s forgotten.

But deadly violence in America is not a wreck to be left behind. It demands sustained attention. Public spaces are not safe—and they are becoming less safe by the day. Sacred places like schools are not as safe as they need to be, leaving parents with deep apprehension—and in some cases regret— about sending their most prized possession, their children, into the classroom. And too often, the tone of mainstream media only magnifies division, provoking infighting among communities rather than fostering unity.

When I wrote my first op-ed on this topic, I received strong replies from many of you— readers who expressed gratitude for keeping this conversation alive, and who encouraged me not to let it slip away. That response further motivated me to stay with this issue, and I welcome more of your letters, perspectives, and ideas. This platform is not just mine—it is ours. Together, we can keep this conversation alive.

There are two ways to address this crisis. One is from the surface: why do we remain an armed society that allows unstable and angry people such easy access to weapons? The other is deeper: why are so many people so unsettled, so broken, that they feel compelled to use violence as their tool for expressing anger, sadness or frustration?

In the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s death, a handful of leaders briefly touched on these questions. Some acknowledged the role of news media, the dangers of unchecked social media, and the broken parts of our society that have left too many behind. For a moment, it was encouraging. But just as quickly, those words vanished. Few people picked up the threads and pushed the conversation forward. Few sought real conclusions.

What was most alarming was the lack of serious reflection in the press. Few outlets asked how and why Kirk’s assassin could so easily be armed and able to take a military-style shot in a public space. Is anyone else concerned by that?

The truth is, it is physically impossible to safeguard every public space from violence. While stronger security and presence may help in the short term, it will never be enough. We are still turning a blind eye to the most important question of all: why?

Why do we live in a culture where violence is seen as a viable solution? Why do we allow anger and hatred to manifest so easily into destruction? And why, after every tragedy, do we so quickly look away?

I, for one, refuse to move on.

So what can we do?

First, we must stay focused and not become distracted. We must keep civil, productive dialogue open and demand results—just as businesses do. We cannot give up.

Ask yourself: what is my platform, how can I advance this conversation, and what ideas do I have to help?

And if you doubt whether society can act quickly, remember this: we have the ability to build villages to host the Olympics in just a few years. After 9/11, we created the TSA almost overnight, transforming

airline safety. When we decide something is urgent and non-negotiable, we act.

So why not now? Why not for the epidemic of violence that claims innocent lives every day.

My responsibility

As publisher of this media platform, I see it as my responsibility to keep civil, honest and direct conversation alive. Readers have asked me not to let this issue fade, and I intend to honor that. We can focus on making our communities safer. We can ensure our schools have the resources they need. We can treat mental health as a true priority, not an afterthought.

Find common ground with our leaders

I have also been given the opportunity to know our Montana delegation of leaders. Each of them are devoted family men who care deeply about their communities. But they are also trapped in a political system that does not allow for easy movement of ideas.

You may agree or disagree with their decisions and politics, but they are your elected leaders. I suggest that all of us work to find common ground with them so progress can be made on critical issues like this one. We must support them as neighbors and as leaders. That means starting at the local level, building unified messaging, and elevating solutions upward so they are equipped with the proper tools and the strong backing needed to bring meaningful ideas to a regional and national stage.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once warned us: “Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

This conversation cannot slip into the rearview mirror. Not this time.

KIRCLIFF AND EXPLORER GONDOLA CONSTRUCTION PROGRESSES AHEAD OF DEC. 20 OPENING

BY JEN CLANCEY

BIG SKY—A glass observation deck atop Lone Mountain will open this winter in 2025, inviting skiers and non-skiing spectators to view the mountain ranges surrounding Big Sky at 11,166 feet. The structure, called Kircliff, can be accessed via the Lone Peak Tram. Kircliff is two stories and is made with structural glass—four layers of it. While the bottom glass at the edge is currently protected with plywood and styrofoam as crews work in the space, visitors beginning in late December can slip a pair of protective booties over their shoes and boots to experience the glass view.

The Explorer Gondola will open alongside Kircliff's Dec. 20 debut, offering a new link from the base of Big Sky Resort to the Lone Peak Tram base. The Explorer Gondola will make the ride to the resort's highest slope accessible to skiers and non-skiers.

On Sept. 25, Explore Big Sky Staff Writer Jen Clancey took photos as construction crews continued progress on Kircliff and the Explorer Gondola, learning about how the structures were built, and how the Lone Peak Tram helped transport materials for the Kircliff project.

BIG SKY OKTOBERFEST CELEBRATES BIGGEST YEAR YET

BY JACK REANEY

On the last weekend of September, hundreds of locals, Gallatin Valley day-trippers and visitors from afar passed through the gates to celebrate Big Sky Oktoberfest, a young but fast-growing fall tradition.

Organizers were thrilled by the turnout, and attendees enjoyed games like hammerschlagen, bean-bag toss and most dramatically, steinholding competitions.

Cuisine included currywurst, bratwurst and photogenic pretzels, with a variety of authentic German beers on tap.

A lederhosen fun run on Sunday morning opened the last of three days, all raising money for local youth athletes in the Big Sky Ski Education Foundation and Big Sky Futbol Club.

Enjoy a gallery of photos from the event, taken by Explore Big Sky Senior Editor Jack Reaney.

BSFD TO SEE $2.3 MILLION LESS IN TAX REVENUE THIS FISCAL YEAR AFTER MISCALCULATION

EBS STAFF

Gallatin County taxpayers funding the Big Sky Fire Department could see up to a 50% reduction on their fire department taxes in the future after a miscalculation led to higher-thanintended assessments.

In a Sept. 25 press release, the Big Sky Fire Department noted the error occurred when Gallatin County calculated the total tax levy for the fire department by applying the number of voter-approved mills, instead of subjecting the dollar amount levied to the property tax cap set by Montana legislation.

“Transparency, integrity, and fiscal responsibility are core values of the Big Sky Fire Department,” Big Sky Fire Chief Dustin Tetrault stated in the release. “When we discovered the issue, we acted quickly to ensure the calculations were being applied correctly. Preliminary estimates show this correction could save Gallatin County taxpayers up to 50% on their fire department tax assessment going forward.”

The reduction in tax bills however, will result in a 15% reduction in total revenue this fiscal year and $2.3 million less available in the department’s budget compared to last year. The miscalculation also results in a “significant” reduction in planned revenue this year.

“After careful review and numerous program cuts, the department still expects an operating deficit of nearly $500,000 this year, which will necessitate using operating reserves while leadership and trustees determine long-term solutions for adequate funding to maintain service levels,” the release stated.

“Our community deserves accuracy and fairness in taxation,” stated Department Board Chair Carol Collins in the release. “We are proud that we uncovered this issue, and we are equally grateful that the correction directly benefits taxpayers. At the same time, the reduction in revenues will challenge the Department’s ability to maintain

the same level of service, and we will be working diligently to balance fiscal responsibility with public safety.”

Madison County taxpayers will not be affected by the change as the county calculated the number of mills correctly, separate from Gallatin County’s tax calculation process.

While the error occurred at the county level, BSFD maintains that the mistake was unintentional and that both BSFD and the county are committed to correcting the process moving forward, the release stated. Jim Doar, the Gallatin County Administrator, told EBS that the internal process will be improved by building systems for more review, as well as investments in new software. The press release also noted ongoing collaboration to ensure accurate levies.

“BSFD will continue collaborating with Gallatin and Madison County officials to ensure levy calculations are correct, maintaining consistency between Gallatin and Madison Counties, and protecting taxpayer contributions,” the release stated.

Residents can look out for a future public meeting and Q&A with county and fire department officials that will be scheduled soon.

BIG SKY COMMUNITY WEEK, HOMECOMING SET FOR EARLY OCTOBER

BY JACK REANEY

BIG SKY—Local pride and engagement will highlight the week of Monday, Oct. 6 to Friday, Oct. 10, between Big Sky Community Week and Big Sky School District Homecoming.

Community Week is in its fourth year and is hosted by the Big Sky Resort Area District and Big Sky Chamber of Commerce. Organizers hope to see another year of strong attendance, and emphasized first-time attendees are welcome at all events. For every event an individual attends, they can scan a QR code for a raffle entry. Prizes are gift cards including $1,000 and separately $500 to Conoco, Hungry Moose and Ace Hardware, $200 to Country Market and East Slope Outdoors, and $100 to Hero Snow Coffee, Blue Moon Bakery and JP Woolies.

“It’s a wide variety of events,” Jenny Christensen of BSRAD told EBS, noting that some are light and fun, while others are dense with information. “We try to plan something for everyone and try to make every event as approachable as possible.”

The schedule is similar to past years, but organizers continue to build on successful events from the past.

Community Cocktails on Monday, Oct. 6 from 4 to 6 p.m. now has a new family focus, inviting kids to work on arts and crafts through the Arts Council of Big Sky’s Artventure program.

Popular daily workout classes at BASE have been expanded to also include a pair of classes each hosted by Big Sky Fitness Fusion, Santosha Wellness Center and Moving Mountains, all free to attendees with advance registration required.

“We’re excited that we got such interest from all the gyms to participate,” Christensen said. Classes include Pilates, barre, yoga, strength and conditioning.

In partnership with the Coordinating Council of Big Sky, Pizza with a Purpose will be a discussion regarding wellness district efforts on Thursday, Oct. 9 from 12 to 2 p.m. at Big Sky Chapel.

The most widely informative event will be State of the Community, featuring key community and economic leaders for a series of short discussions on social services, funding and philanthropy, health and safety, and economic development.

The State of the Community will take place Tuesday, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Warren Miller Performing Arts Center, and will be live-streamed on YouTube for those unable to attend.

For those keeping an eye on local and county government, the Madison-Gallatin Joint County Commission meeting is scheduled for Wednesday morning, Oct. 8 from 9 to 11 a.m., hosted by BSRAD.

Finally, the Community Appreciation Celebration will feel laid back, with family-friendly activities and live music hosted by local organizations at Len Hill Park. It’s scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 9 from 4 to 6 p.m., although a few light events are scheduled Friday, including the Big Sky Community Food Bank’s Great Pumpkin Giveaway food drive.

Organizer Liz McFadden of the chamber said Community Week will be a success if it brings the community together.

“I hope that people maybe learn something new at an event that they wouldn’t normally go to,” McFadden said. “And maybe even meet somebody new—somebody that is out of their circle in Big Sky.”

Christensen said in the three years of Community Week, it’s been a pleasant surprise to see how many locals attend events.

“And we see a lot of new faces which is amazing,” she said. “We just hope people learn something new, meet someone new.”

Big Horn Homecoming coincides

During the same week, Lone Peak High School will host its tropical-themed Homecoming festivities, including home games for varsity teams, a parade and pep rally, carnival and dance.

“I love how this town comes together for Homecoming week,” LPHS Athletic Director John Hannahs told EBS. “The support from local businesses with window decorating and having the community show out to the pep rally and sporting events to support our athletic programs means so much to the school and especially the student athletes.”

To begin the week, the JV-only volleyball team will host West Yellowstone on Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 5 p.m.

Next, on Wednesday at 6 p.m., the annual parade and pep rally will run through Town Center and Len Hill Park. Another display of Big Horn pride, the window decorating contest will be settled Wednesday evening.

On Thursday, the Big Horn varsity soccer teams will host Laurel High School: boys at 4 p.m., girls under the lights at 6.

The annual carnival will take place on school grounds on Friday at 2:30 p.m., before the varsity football team hosts Harlowton at 7 p.m.

And on Saturday night, students will attend a “tropical getaway” Homecoming dance to wrap up a busy week in Big Sky.

“Homecoming week is a time for the students to be proud of being a Big Horn and come together as a full school,” said LPHS student body president Walker Stewart.

He added he’s looking forward to new activities planned this year, like flag football between soccer players and teachers during the school’s flex period.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: THE NEWLY WED AND THE NEARLY DEAD

Their reply to me was something I had never heard.

“Oh, so you go with the newly wed and nearly dead crowd,” they said.

After my initial pause while my brain caught up, I started to chuckle. They were right! These are the times you are most likely to see honeymooners and retired folks hitting the park, rather than families with school-aged children. And it really does create a different kind of experience.

The closest entrance to Yellowstone National Park, affectionately known by locals as simply, “The Park,” is a quick 50-minute drive from Big Sky. Because of its proximity and vast size, I always considered the park the backyard of Big Sky; our playground—a special place that we have special access to.

see and experience one of the true wonders of the world. As a community, we should take advantage of this magnificent place. Although technically open 24/7, and 365 days a year, there are some entrances and areas of the park with limited or no access during fall and winter. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the various hours of operation. The West Yellowstone entrance is open to passenger vehicle traffic this season through Oct. 31, weather dependent.

So whether birding, hiking, biking, fishing, painting, drawing, listening for the bugling of the elk, or simply sitting in silence taking in the endless epic vistas, Yellowstone National Park is a neighbor worth visiting this fall. And be sure to congratulate the honeymooners and say hello to the retirees!

A few years back, I was asked how often I go to Yellowstone National Park, since I live so close to it. I’m guessing my response may sound familiar to many in the Big Sky community. I answered, “I go in mid-April to mid-May, and then after Labor Day until the West Entrance closes in midOctober. Unless someone comes to visit me during the summer that has never been to the park, I avoid it like the plague during the summer.”

In the fall, this is an especially great time to head to the park at dawn or dusk. Animals are preparing for winter and there is a lot of activity. It is a wonderful time of year to slow down and take your time going through the park, to stop at features that are always packed with tourists in the summer, and to see large animals without the dreaded “bear jams.”

One of the things that binds our community together is the number of our citizens that value and promote an outdoor, Western lifestyle. It is part of who we are as a cohort. The park is an amazing neighbor in that sense. There are endless opportunities, regardless of time of year, to do,

Sara Sipe has lived in Big Sky since 2009. She is an accountant by trade, but her true passion is being of service to others in Big Sky through charitable work and community building. In her free time, she enjoys live music, creative writing, pottery, and painting.

Big Sky Community Spotlight is a short column that is meant to shine a light on those in Big Sky doing important work. Whether it be a profession, hobby or volunteer work, Big Sky is home to interesting people that do interesting things and as our community grows, it is important to stay connected to our neighbors and local businesses. This is more easily done if we know more about one another. We hope you enjoy getting to know your neighbors!

BROCK TESSMAN OUTLINES HIS PASSION, PURPOSE AND PLANS FOR MSU REGIONAL

BY SOFIA BEERS

MSU EXPONENT

BOZEMAN—Two years ago, Brock Tessman sat with his wife in the front seat of a moving truck headed for Michigan, wondering if they would ever find their way back to Montana. The couple decided that they would only return to Big Sky Country if the president position at MSU became available—and then it did.

After months of deliberation, Tessman was chosen to be MSU’s 13th president. Before serving two years as the president of Northern Michigan University, Tessman spent nine years in the Treasure State serving as the Dean of the University of Montana Honors College from 2015 to 2018 and the Montana Deputy Commissioner of Higher Education from 2018 to 2023.

Despite his time spent at UM, Tessman said his loyalty to MSU has been longstanding, even before his professional career in Montana.

“I will be on the record as saying the first thing that we bought as a commemorative remembrance of Montana was a pair of fuzzy blue and gold socks that my wife wore for many, many, many years,” Tessman said. “We’ve been blue and gold from the beginning.”

For Tessman, it is essential that a campus provides students with diverse opportunities to discover their passions and find a sense of belonging.

“We’ve got to establish that sense of purpose as quickly as possible and we need to recognize that —even for students that have all sorts of tailwinds and supports—the going is going to get rough at some point in time,” he said.

Though the first semester of his presidency started in late August, Tessman has been working since early July. He said he has been familiarizing himself with the campus and meeting with faculty and leadership teams to gain a better understanding of the institution he now leads.

“My primary goal this first year is to—in a very open and intentional way—get across this entire campus in both structured ways and unstructured ways, to find out what’s made MSU an institution with so much positive momentum,” he said. “So, listen and learn about what some of the priorities are—not from this office—but from our students, from our faculty who are teaching in the classroom and in the labs and certainly from our staff who make this place run every single day.”

Now that the semester is underway, Tessman has been carving time out of every week to interact with students by going on regular walks through the Strand Union Building and across campus. He said he likes to grab lunch and catch students between classes to introduce himself and ask how their semesters are going.

“That is one of the things—if I can’t do that, then this job quickly becomes untenable for me. I am refueled by that time with students,” Tessman said. “Frankly, you learn a lot through those

conversations that you’ll never learn in an executive team meeting or a Board of Regents meeting.”

Tessman said going into his presidency, he is focusing on the importance of student voices. He intends to refresh the University’s Strategic Plan —a roadmap for the institution—which hasn’t been updated in seven years. Tessman said he has plans on offering ample opportunity for students to submit their feedback during that process.

“Every leader has strengths and weaknesses, and a strength I have is a genuine desire to get all voices to the table,” he said. “The students at [MSU] are the reason we exist, so if we do not hear from our students, we will not write a strategic plan that makes sense for the University.”

In addition to acquainting himself with the University and its students, Tessman views maintaining MSU’s involvement across the state as a critical part of his job. Before his time at NMU, Tessman served as the Montana Deputy Commissioner of Higher Education. In that role, he expanded college access for rural communities and helped to establish the Montana10 Student Success Initiative, which works to improve college completion rates among underserved students.

Tessman said that his work as deputy commissioner is part of why he believes that MSU has a responsibility to look beyond Bozeman and stay connected to the state as a whole. He said that he intends to strengthen relationships with state legislators, the governor’s office and state agency leaders while improving the public’s trust in higher education.

“We have Bobcats all over the state. It’s not lost on me that we graduate more [students] than any other institution—Yellow Jackets, Lights, Grizzlies,” he said. “Our imprint across the state is unparalleled, and I’m not doing my job if we’re only focused on items that are relevant to this piece of Bozeman, or even Bozeman as a community, or the Gallatin Valley community as a statewide operation.”

Tessman spoke about the importance of the University serving community members directly and staying aware of current events and what Montanans need.

“About a third of our budget comes from the taxpayers in the state of Montana. We can never lose track of that,” Tessman said. “And that’s a real responsibility then: to be aware of and responsive to the workforce needs, economic development needs, civic engagement needs of the state. It’s part and parcel with what it means to be the land grant [university].”

With Homecoming around the corner, Tessman said he is excited for the University to engage directly with community members. Although presidents in the past have ridden in a car or golf cart, Tessman said he plans to walk this year and place candy directly in the hands of those lining the streets.

“I am a sucker for parades,” he said. “I think it’s a great intersection of our campus and our community. I know we’ve got lots of student organizations and students involved, and a lot of our staff and faculty join. It’s a chance for us to have our whole blue and gold crew walking down Main Street and engaging with the Bozeman community.”

Tessman said that he takes pride in the opportunity to be MSU’s president and impact students during such an influential part of their lives.

“This is how I’m spending my life,” he said. “It’s a commitment to the students who are here now, the students who are coming in years down the road. I am all in on this place and I’m all in on the students.”

“I couldn’t feel more deeply honored and just so lucky to be able to spend my life doing this kind of work as the president of [MSU]—it is the best thing that I could imagine doing,” he said.

A NEW BALLOT INITIATIVE PROMISES TO SOLVE BOTH WATER AND HOUSING IN BOZEMAN. WOULD IT?

BY FISCHER GENAU

BOZEMAN—This November, Bozeman residents will have the chance to vote on the Bozeman Water Adequacy Initiative, a proposal that aims to address affordable housing and water availability in the city. Some say it will do the exact opposite.

The ballot initiative, drafted by Water Adequacy for Residential Development, or WARD, would amend the Bozeman Municipal Code to change how water rights are given out to developers. If passed, the initiative would essentially require developers to make 33% of new residential housing units “affordable” if they want to build within Bozeman city limits. WARD says that this would both increase the quantity of affordable housing in Bozeman and help prevent the depletion of its finite water supply.

“This policy will solve two of the most pressing issues Bozeman currently faces: a lack of affordable housing, and a limited water supply,” WARD said in their policy brief.

However, numerous groups, including the City of Bozeman and the Gallatin County Commission, have spoken out against the Bozeman Water Adequacy Initiative. They say that it will actually drive up housing prices and degrade the area’s water supply by reducing the amount of housing in Bozeman and driving development outside of city limits.

“PLAINLY

STATED, WE BELIEVE THIS LEGISLATION WILL DO THE EXACT OPPOSITE OF WHAT SOME BELIEVE. WE BELIEVE IT WILL DRIVE UP HOUSING COSTS, IT WILL REDUCE THE NUMBER OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING

UNITS BEING BUILT, AND WILL DRIVE

DEVELOPMENT TO THE COUNTY WHERE WATER USE IS LESS EFFICIENT AND WASTEWATER IS MOSTLY TREATED BY SEPTIC TANKS.”

- Bozeman City Manager Chuck Winn

Origins of the initiative

WARD formed in the spring of 2024, emerging from conversations about water availability and Bozeman’s lack of affordable housing, and a first draft of the water adequacy ballot initiative was written soon after, exercising the peoples’ right of initiative and referendum reserved by the Montana Constitution.

“The initiative came out of, what could we ask for in using water as leverage to get something needed in our community?” Natsuki Nakamura, a founding member of WARD, told EBS.

At least three drafts were rejected by the city attorney because they tried to amend more than one part of the Bozeman Municipal Code, but a subsequent draft was approved, and WARD began collecting signatures. To get their initiative on the ballot, WARD had 90 days to gather signatures

from 15% of the voting public. They started collecting in March of 2025, and by June, they had 5,800, surpassing their goal. The Bozeman Water Adequacy Ballot Initiative was officially on the ticket.

“This is very, very much an exercise in direct democracy,” said Dan Carty, another of WARD’s founding members.

Even before WARD’s initiative made it to the ballot, it attracted criticism.

“Plainly stated, we believe this legislation will do the exact opposite of what some believe,” Bozeman City Manager Chuck Winn said during a regular meeting of the Bozeman City Commission on April 22. “We believe it will drive up housing costs, it will reduce the number of affordable housing units being built, and will drive development to the county where water use is less efficient and wastewater is mostly treated by septic tanks.”

At that meeting, several other community members voiced their opinions. Riley Rivers from Southwest Montana Building Industry Association and Anya Linke from Forward Montana opposed the initiative on behalf of their organizations.

“I want our community to come together on creative solutions to the number of wicked problems we face, but I am concerned this initiative will make our problems worse,” Linke said.

Others, including Montana State University instructor and former Bozeman mayor Steve Kirchoff, spoke in favor of the initiative and expressed their frustration towards the city.

“My hunch about this commission is that you are not reading the community properly and you are not listening properly,” Kirchoff said. “Start opening your minds to what people are telling you.”

How the initiative works

The water adequacy ballot initiative relies on Bozeman’s cash-in-lieu of water rights program, a tool the city uses to streamline the distribution of water for new developments. When a developer wants to build a new structure in Bozeman, they must first secure water rights for the property. They can do this by developing a new water right, offsetting the amount of water they plan to use through water conservation, or using the city’s cashin-lieu program. Through the cash-in-lieu program, a developer pays the city $6,000 per acre-foot of water they plan to use, and the City of Bozeman uses that money to purchase water shares from one of Bozeman’s three main water sources—Hyalite Reservoir, Sourdough Creek or Lyman Creek.

Of the three ways that a developer can secure water rights, the cash-in-lieu program is by far the most popular. Shawn Kohtz, Bozeman’s director of utilities, says it can take up to eight years for a developer to develop their own water right, and that 99% of developers end up using the cash-inlieu program.

“I think [the cash-in-lieu program] is very effective,” Kohtz told EBS over the phone. “Basically, it puts water supply development in the hands of the city, and the reason that’s important is that we, as the city, develop water supply projects very efficiently.”

Carty and Nakamura think that the cash-in-lieu program is not ecologically responsible. WARD’s website says that “Bozeman’s rapid growth means the city will outgrow its limited water supply within 10 years,” and Carty said the ballot initiative will require developers to provide a community benefit—affordable housing—if they want to access this finite resource. The ballot initiative would also no longer allow developers to offset their water use through off-site conservation measures.

However, Kohtz says that Bozeman is not in immediate danger of overdrawing on its water supply. According to Kotz, in 2024, the City of Bozeman used 7,100 acre feet of water out of 16,500 acre feet available. That’s about 43%. In a drought year, only 12,000 acre feet of water are projected to be available, which means in 2024 the city would have used 60% of the water supply.

In the last decade, the City of Bozeman has taken steps to conserve water. Since the creation of its Integrated Water Resources Plan in 2013, water use in Bozeman has dropped from 165 gallons per person per day to about 120 gallons. In 2023, the city commission voted unanimously to adopt the Water and Conservation Efficiency Plan to expand on the plan from 2013. The 2023 plan sets new water conservation goals and outlines several programs to conserve more water. Assuming that the plan’s predictions are correct, and the City of Bozeman implements the water-conserving measures it outlines, Bozeman’s demand for water would be well under its supply by 2040.

Nakamura and WARD acknowledge the work the city has done to conserve water, but they suspect it’s only to fuel more population growth.

“I think water conservation measures are super important,” Nakamura said. “We should continue to do those, and I’m happy that the city has done those. But… are we doing it for environmental resiliency when climate conditions are unpredictable, or are we doing it just to support more growth, and then still be in a precarious situation, given a particularly bad drought year?”

So how would the ballot initiative affect Bozeman’s water supply? If the ballot initiative passes and developers meet the new requirement of 33% affordable housing units, they would still be drawing on Bozeman’s water. The only way the ballot initiative would conserve water is if developers decided not to meet the 33% affordability requirement within Bozeman’s city limits and chose not to build in the surrounding area. Critics of the water adequacy ballot initiative think that’s unlikely.

Building affordable housing

In the April city commission meeting, Bozeman’s housing and urban renewal manager David Fine said that in 2019, the city was behind about 1,400 housing units. To keep up with its population growth, Bozeman would need to add 1,200 housing units each year through 2023.

That didn’t happen. Instead, an average of 741 units were built each year within Bozeman city limits, and people flooded into the region during COVID-19. Demand outstripped supply even further, and housing prices shot up.

REGIONAL

Since 2023, Bozeman has caught up by some metrics. In early 2025, the city had a 12.5% vacancy rate, which housing experts consider an oversupply, and rent prices have begun to soften. But Bozeman still needs more housing for lower-income renters and buyers. The vacancy rate for units that cost an average of $2,300 a month was over 20% earlier this year, according to a Sterling CRE Advisors report. In contrast, Bozeman would need almost 6,000 more affordable housing units to serve the number of people making 60% or less of the area median income, according to a presentation made by the City of Bozeman.

WARD wanted to address that gap. Their water adequacy ballot initiative says that if developers want to use the cash-in-lieu of water rights program, they must make 33% of units in a new project “affordable.” For homes that are for sale, that means they must be priced for households making up to 120% of the area median income ($104,650 for a two-person household), so roughly middleincome families. For rentals, it means units must be affordable to households making 60% or less of AMI ($52,350 for a two-person household), which generally means lower-income renters. WARD argues that Bozeman’s need for affordable housing goes even deeper.

“The need… is much greater than 33%, but the 33% was kind of a compromise of still being feasible and having a mixed income rather than just a low-income development, while still progressing our housing needs,” Nakamura said.

Fine agrees that Bozeman needs more affordable housing, but he expressed skepticism about whether the initiative would work as intended.

“The ability to buy a home has really been outstripped by recent price increases, so I understand the desire to find ways to make housing affordable,” Fine said during the April city commission meeting. “I’m not sure this initiative does that.”

The City of Bozeman hired Economic Planning Systems (EPS), a national land economics consulting firm, to analyze how the Bozeman Water Adequacy Ballot Initiative would impact the construction of new housing. EPS’s study concluded that no new developments would be economically feasible under WARD’s 33% affordability requirement, without considerable subsidies. A subsidy, in this case, is some kind of financial assistance that reduces the cost of building housing units.

For a 30-unit single-family housing development, EPS calculated that meeting the affordability requirement would result in a net loss of $750,000 for the developer. They also calculated that a 90unit apartment complex is already economically unfeasible in Bozeman, and that the ballot initiative’s requirements would increase the feasibility gap by $2.6 million.

But WARD argues that there are “several flaws and faulty assumptions” in the study that make its conclusions invalid. In WARD member Lorre Jay’s response to the study, she said that EPS’s estimated land cost for the 30-unit single-family housing development was too high, citing lower land costs for other parcels in town. Jay also challenged the statement that a 90-unit, market-rate apartment complex is already economically unfeasible.

“Bozeman has at least 3,200 units in review or under construction as of July 2025 in Bozeman, according to various realtor reports,” Jay said. “It is unlikely that such a pipeline would exist if these projects were producing losses.”

Still, Nakamura acknowledged that some sort of subsidy would be required for developers to reach WARD’s requirement of 33% of affordable housing units. But she argues there are ways for the city to find them.

“I do think there are some subsidies needed to build affordable housing,” Nakamura said. “But those subsidies could be in different forms. They can be in federal tax credits. They could be in TIF—tax increment financing—which the city has given to a number of other projects. They could be subsidized from the other market-rate units to cover the costs, or it could be reductions in profits, so if there is a lower threshold of acceptable profits, that could help subsidize a project.”

Fine doesn’t think that developers can use marketrate units or profit margins to cover the costs.

“You might assume that the greedy real estate developers are not building affordable housing because of their greed or their profit motivation or some other malintent,” Fine said. “But…that’s not what we’re finding in the data.”

The Bozeman Water Adequacy Ballot Initiative does not include any subsidies. It would be up to the city to enforce its requirements and find ways to build the affordable units.

Affordable Housing Ordinance

Bozeman already has an affordable housing program. The Affordable Housing Ordinance, or AHO, creates voluntary incentives for developers to build affordable housing in the city. Since its adoption in 2022, the AHO has helped bring about 1,800 affordable units to Bozeman—371 have been built, 100 are under construction, and 1,306 are being reviewed. But funding affordable housing has been difficult.

Jennifer Boyer, the commissioner for Gallatin County, has worked on several affordable housing projects in Bozeman. One such project, a 182-unit development called Hidden Creek behind the Gallatin County Rest Home, relies on significant subsidies to pay for it. The land it will occupy was donated by Gallatin County, the City of Bozeman

chipped in $2 million, the county supplied another $2 million and the project secured a $2 million bond for infrastructure as well as a low-income housing tax credit, according to Boyer. Still, the project’s success is far from guaranteed.

“Even with all of that subsidy, it is barely making it, and we haven’t broken ground yet,” Boyer told EBS.

Boyer said, due to how hard it is to subsidize affordable housing developments, she doesn’t expect the ballot initiative to accelerate their construction. Instead, she thinks it would serve as a kind of moratorium on building new housing in Bozeman.

WARD said that their ballot initiative would complement the city’s existing AHO.

“If our initiative passes, it would exist side by side with the city’s affordable housing ordinance, so they would both be tools that can be used to build affordable housing within the city,” Carty said.

Carty hopes that market-rate to luxury-rate developers will build less if the ballot initiative is adopted, while developers that are interested in giving back to the community would build more. But Fine thinks the ballot initiative’s affordability target is far too high to be effective.

“There is no magic to where housing comes from,” Fine said at the April city commission meeting. “You can’t will it into existence. You can’t regulate it into existence. When you require more than a feasible target of affordable housing in order to build market-rate development, you’re likely to get neither market-rate development or affordable development, and that has the potential to have a major impact on housing supply.”

Potential for urban sprawl

Critics of the ballot initiative say that developers will still build, just outside of Bozeman city limits. If this were to happen, new housing projects would still draw from the Gallatin Valley’s water supply, but rather than tapping into the city-run water system, they would draw from exempt wells that are less efficient and harder to regulate.

“This initiative will drive sprawl outside of the city limits, resulting in significant reduction in sustainability in several areas, including efficient water use, transportation impacts, and economic impacts,” Winn said at the city commission meeting.

But WARD says sprawl is already happening. At the city commission meeting, Nakamura argued that “the status quo is promoting sprawl,” as high housing prices push people outside of the city and into its surrounding areas. Carty agrees.

“I don’t see this ballot initiative, if it passes, causing any sprawl beyond what is already occurring,” Carty said.

The discourse between WARD and its critics has escalated as the election draws nearer, with both groups sending emails and hosting events to express their point of view. WARD is hosting a town hall about the ballot initiative at 6 p.m. on Oct. 2 at the Bozeman Public Library. The following week, the City of Bozeman is hosting a Q&A on WARD and the ballot initiative at 6 p.m. on Oct. 6 at HRDC’s Market Place. Both events are free and open to the public.

But ultimately it will be the voters that decide the fate of the Bozeman Water Adequacy Ballot Initiative. This year’s election will take place on Nov. 4.

GROUNDBREAKING OF ON-CAMPUS VIM HOTEL CELEBRATED FRIDAY AT MONTANA STATE

MSU NEWS SERVICE

More than 100 people gathered Friday at Montana State University to celebrate the groundbreaking of the VIM, a privately owned and operated hotel to be located on campus that will provide real-world experience to prepare Montana’s next generation of leaders in the fast-growing hospitality and culinary fields.

“This is going to be a beautiful building and a wonderful addition to the Montana State University campus,” said MSU Vice President for Student Success Steve Swinford in his remarks at the event. “I know Bobcat alumni and fans, the families of our current students and many, many others, are going to look forward to staying here when they come to Bozeman.”

Named after lyrics from MSU’s fight song, the VIM will not only provide accommodations for visitors to campus and the community but also offer hands-on training and internship opportunities for MSU students.

“I said it would be a beautiful building, but it’s also going to be a unique building,” Swinford said. “When it’s completed, this hotel will be one of the very first teaching grounds in our state for hospitality professionals. We’re incredibly proud to work with our partners to pave the way in this area. This building will be an important supplement to our academic programs in hospitality and an important means for our students to gain realworld experience while earning their degrees.”

MSU offers four-year hospitality management programs in the College of Education, Health and Human Development and the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. The former offers an option in sustainable hospitality, and the latter offers a hospitality business option. The programs prepare students to become skilled professionals within the expanding local, regional, national and global hospitality industries through courses in subjects including food and nutrition, culinary arts, business and agriculture, as well as hospitality-specific coursework emphasizing

sustainability and quality customer service. Internships along the way ensure students have practical experience that makes them competitive candidates for jobs after graduation.

Gallatin College MSU also offers an associate of applied science degree in culinary arts and a certificate in hospitality, which opens the door to jobs in the local food services industry. Students may also opt for an entrepreneurial path toward owning a restaurant, bakery, food truck, catering or hospitality business. Both programs prepare students to transfer into MSU’s hospitality management bachelor’s program, if they wish.

Following a competitive proposal process, Lone Mountain Land Co., a subsidiary of CrossHarbor Capital Partners, was identified to develop the five-story hotel project, which will be operated as a Marriott Hotels franchise location. It is being built on land that MSU has leased to the developers.

In his remarks, Sam Byrne, co-founder and managing partner of CrossHarbor Capital Partners, called the groundbreaking celebration “the start of a new chapter that we hope and believe will enhance

the quality of education and overall campus experience for all.”

The 123,000-square-foot hotel will have 138 rooms and suites and 5,300 square feet of meeting and event space that can also be used as classrooms and teaching spaces, Byrne said. The VIM will also have food and beverage outlets inside, including a restaurant.

Byrne also called MSU “an important economic engine for the region.”

“The culture, community, vibrancy and employment development that comes from Montana State is extraordinary,” Byrne said. “We could not be successful here without it. Being partners with MSU is fundamental to our business.”

Mike Dean, director of culinary arts for Gallatin College MSU, said the culinary arts program has been limited by the size of its current kitchen and facilities. Having the hotel on campus, with space for teaching and opportunities for internships, will enable the program to grow and serve more students, he said.

“These will be excellent educational opportunities for our students and all students on campus,” Dean said. “Opportunities for internships and collaborations with the hotel will also lead to further opportunities for our students as they graduate.”

Fran Albrecht, president and CEO of the MSU Alumni Foundation, thanked everyone for the various roles they played in the project.

“Thanks to each one of you: our alumni, donors, friends, faculty, staff and students, for being part of this special day,” Albrecht said. “It’s exciting to think about being in this hotel and walking across the street to cheer on our Bobcats.”

Following the remarks, the speakers and others involved in the project took part in a ceremonial dig. The celebration concluded with a reception featuring hors d’oeuvres prepared by students in the Gallatin College MSU culinary arts program along with MSU Catering.

The VIM hotel is estimated to open in fall 2027.

SPORTS

LONE PEAK HOLDS ON TO BEAT TWIN BRIDGES

HELMS, GRABOW LEAD THE CHARGE WITH NINE TOTAL TDS; BIG HORNS EMPHASIZE IMPORTANCE OF FINISHING GAMES

BY JACK REANEY

BIG SKY—A win is a win, but a 58-42 victory also presented Lone Peak High School’s football team with a learning opportunity.

The Big Horns held a comfortable lead at multiple checkpoints throughout the game, but a slow finish robbed the team of complete satisfaction with their performance against visiting Twin Bridges High School on Friday, Sept. 19.

The Big Horns led 34-14 at halftime. On the second half’s opening kickoff, they immediately extended the lead to 40-14 on a kick return by senior Ebe Grabow, and further to 46-14 on a 65-yard Grabow reception, a go-route thrown by promising freshman quarterback Jens Biggerstaff. Leading by 32 with less than half the game remaining, a blowout victory seemed imminent.

Twin Bridges kept their focus and turned the game around.

In the fourth quarter, the Falcons closed the deficit to 10 points, trailing 52-42 with less than two minutes left—before another Grabow kick return put the game on ice, finally.

“We did not finish that well,” Lone Peak senior Will Helms told EBS after the game. “We have to play as a team the whole time, we cannot give up… I gotta lead the team better as a senior. All of us seniors need to lead the team better.”

Heading into a bye week, Helms is motivated to fix the shortcomings that became clear in the second half. When asked about his strong game— he forced a fumble in the first quarter and scored thrice including a gritty, 30-yard touchdown after breaking tackles and running the tightrope

along the right sideline—he instead reflected on a disappointing second half.

“We just gotta finish games. It’s unbelievable that we gave up that many points,” Helms said.

Head coach Dustin Shipman said the bye week will allow players to get healthy, and the team will focus on finishing after “everything went well” in the first half.

“It just kind of fell off in the second half, and that’s where we gotta start working,” Shipman said. “… That was a team that kept fighting until the very last down.”

Grabow said the key is keeping pressure after halftime, even after a strong first half.

“I mean, we just can’t let up,” Grabow said.

The Falcons and sophomore quarterback Brandt Nelson executed chunk passing plays, forced turnovers and recovered an onside kick in the fourth quarter to keep the game interesting. But when an opponent scores six touchdowns, there’s only so much you can do.

The Falcon defense could not contain Grabow, who caught three touchdown passes, and returned one punt and two kickoffs in his third-to-last high school home game.

With one minute before halftime, Twin Bridges scored to cut Lone Peak’s lead to 28-14. Jogging back to receive a kickoff, Grabow shouted, “Hey, we got a minute!”

He would need only half of that time.

Biggerstaff provided a 40-yard pass to Grabow and a 20-yard catch-and-run to junior receiver Lucas O’Connor to bring the Big Horns near the goal

line. And with 37 seconds on the clock, Grabow made a spectacular toe-tap grab in the corner of the end zone to give the Big Horns a 34-14 lead and ignite his Lone Peak classmates, watching in awe just a few feet away.

“That felt good. I almost didn’t think I had it,” Grabow said. “Jens had a great game, threw a great ball. I just had to go up and get it.”

Grabow doesn’t see himself as the sole factor in the multi-touchdown performances fans have come to expect. He said everyone around contributes, blocking and doing their jobs to open running lanes.

“They’re setting me up,” Grabow said. “But I just really want to win games. Our whole team wants to win games, and that’s just our strive. We just want to win.”

He credited Biggerstaff for his fast improvement as a freshman quarterback, looking more comfortable every week. He passed for four touchdowns Friday night.

Coach Shipman agreed, noting Biggerstaff has the traits of a successful quarterback.

“He’s tall, he’s smart, he’s got a good arm,” Shipman said. “And I think he’s got a lot of confidence when you have the receiving set that we have.”

He added praise for Helms, too. “Will Helms is quietly putting together one solid game after another, steady defensive play, making plays on offense at key times and playing every play at 100%.”

The 2-2 Big Horns will resume their season on Oct. 3 at Park City High School, before returning to Big Sky to host Harlowton High School on Oct. 10 for homecoming.

EVA HEINZ BREAKS MSU PROGRAM RECORD AT THE YELLOWSTONE INTERCOLLEGIATE

BY TY SPARING EBS CONTRIBUTOR

If Montana State golf fans were worried that the program might see a downturn this year with the loss of All-Conference golfers Scarlet Weidig and Becca Tschetter, their fears were alleviated within the first few weeks of the collegiate season. Junior Eva Heinz has been on an absolute tear to bring in the new year, breaking records, winning tournaments and making a case for being the next Bobcat golfer to make the leap into the top tier of the Big Sky Conference. Along with Heinz, newcomers Norah Seidl, Sailor Graham, and Ashleigh Wilson are all making some noise thus far, each already with a top-10 finish at the recent Yellowstone Intercollegiate.

Hosted by MSU at Riverside Country Club in Bozeman, the Yellowstone Intercollegiate had 11 teams at the event, including the University of Montana Grizzlies and several others coming from the Big Sky Conference. As the only team under par throughout all three rounds of competition, Montana State once again put the rest of the conference on lookout as they cruised to a fifteenstroke victory over CSU Northridge with a final cumulative score of -16 (848). Even more interesting was the fact that MSU had a different player lead the field through each individual round.

Eva Heinz was the big story of the tournament however, breaking a program and Big Sky Conference single round record for low score after posting a blistering first day performance of -10 (62). She had a whopping nine birdies on the day (holes 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 11, 13, 16, 17) and one eagle which was recorded on the final par-5 eighteenth hole. The score obliterates an MSU record of 66 that was previously held by Lauren Greeny and bested the Big Sky Conference record by two

strokes, which was previously held by Northern Arizona’s Lizzie Neale.

Heinz wasn’t done quite yet either, posting ensuing rounds of +1 (73) and E (72), which gave her the easy victory by five strokes over California Baptists’ Samantha Dizon. Nobody even came particularly close throughout the three rounds as Heinz managed her emotions and continued to execute on the course, leaving her with an overall score of -9 (207).

Tied for third place was one of the Bobcat newcomers, Norah Seidl, who ended her three rounds with a final score of -3 (213). The Tulsa transfer vaulted up the leaderboard after recording the lowest third round score in the field, -4 (68).

Playing as an independent, incoming freshman Sailor Graham likewise led the field with a -2 (70)

score in the second round, en route to a fifth-place finish at -2 (214).

Right behind Graham in sixth place at -1 (215) was last year’s Big Sky Conference and Montana State Match Play Champion, Maddie Montoya. Also in the top 10 was another newcomer, Ashleigh Wilson who finished in a tie for eighth with an even par three round score of 216. Two-time Montana State Amateur winner, Lauren Greeny, meanwhile overcame a sluggish first round to end up in the top third of the field at +2 (218) in a tie for thirteenth place.

Ty Sparing is a writer and historian for the Montana State Golf Association website and monthly magazine, 406Golf. Born and raised in Helena, he currently resides in Missoula with his wife and three kids.

PASSING GAME COMES ALIVE AS BOBCATS BLAST EASTERN WASHINGTON BY RECORD MARGIN

BY COLTER NUANEZ

SKYLINE SPORTS

BOZEMAN—It was almost as if Brent Vigen and the Montana State Bobcats heard the whispers: “Tommy Mellott was their whole offense,” and “Last year’s team was once in a generation,” and most recently, “They only beat Mercyhurst by 17 points. When Big Sky Conference play rolls around, the Bobcats are in trouble.”

Regardless of whether Montana State has been paying attention to the noise, the Bobcats responded resoundingly with a record-setting 57-3 win over Eastern Washington on Saturday, Sept. 27, in front yet another sellout crowd on yet another picture-perfect Bozeman day at Bobcat Stadium.

Justin Lamson sliced and diced the Eagles throughout a precise and explosive first half, jolting MSU to a 31-3 lead. Lamson’s frozen rope to the corner of the South end-zone to Jabez Woods was one of the most impressive throws made by a Bobcat quarterback in a decade-plus, both because of the accuracy and velocity of the throw and because it symbolizes the dawning of a new era.

Lamson, a transfer from Stanford, can certainly run. But he’s not Mellott, the greatest running quarterback in the history of the Big Sky Conference. He’s also nothing like Troy Andersen or Chris Murray, a pair of run-first—some would say run-only—signal callers who each rushed for more than 1,000 yards in single seasons during their time quarterbacking the Bobcat offense.

Instead, this Montana State offense features balance, an array of playmakers and a triggerman who’s currently the most accurate passer in the entire Football Championship Subdivision.

Lamson threw for 251 of his 270 yards and all three of his touchdowns during the first-half onslaught to give MSU a four-touchdown lead. After halftime, Montana State got its ground game going, first with punter and placeholder Colby Frokjer, a surprisingly athletic true freshman who turned a fake-field-goal trick play into a 26-yard touchdown burst.

Then Adam Jones turned on the jets on an outside

run play while racing for a 37-yard touchdown on a carry that helped him show the form that made him the runner-up for the Jerry Rice Award given to the top freshman in the FCS last season despite his slow start to his sophomore season. He entered the game with 135 rushing yards in four games, but rushed for 72 yards and scored two touchdowns on Saturday.

Those two explosive runs helped Montana State blow open the game and make a statement to the rest of the Big Sky Conference in the process. The Bobcats are still the defending conference champions. And MSU looks very intent on making another run at a league title after dismantling the Eagles like never before.

“Throwing the ball down the field is something we have been trying to work on all season,” Lamson said. “Taking shot plays, we are super-efficient when we throw underneath stuff but when I can go let our guys make plays, we are dangerous.”

Lamson connected with Ryan King for 52 yards. He also hit tight end Hunter Provience for a 43-yard touchdown, Taco Dowler for a 45-yard touchdown and Chris Long for 25 yards, along with the 28-yard touchdown to Woods—all in the first half.

“We have a lot of guys that are capable of making plays,” MSU head coach Brent Vigen said. “It’s not like we have to go after one guy. We can let the opportunities dictate where the ball goes. If we can play that way and not worry about who’s getting the ball, I think we’ll have a chance to be pretty good.

“Justin being timely and accurate, making good decisions is all a big piece to it. It was one of those games where everybody, for the most part, got involved. Certainly, pleased with the fact that we’ve got multiple guys who can make plays.”

Nine different Bobcats caught passes against Eastern Washington. Dowler led the way with three catches for 64 yards, including the 45-yarder during a first quarter that helped the Bobcats race to a 21-0 lead. Provience, a sophomore tight end, also showed off his sneaky speed by taking an inside fade out of the slot 43 yards for a score during that opening stanza blitz.

“Last week, we kind of looked at it as if you have 18-play drives, 15-play drives, that’s great—but if we can flip the switch and score huge touchdowns, we can change the momentum of a game,” Lamson said. “If we can execute like this, we are able to make these big plays and we are going to be tough to beat.”

It all amounted to the most lopsided win over Eastern Washington in the series’ long and competitive history. MSU entered the game having won just 14 of the last 40 matchups with EWU, although Vigen moved to 5-0 against the Eagles with the win. Montana State closes September on a three-game winning streak and should hold steady at No. 4 in the national polls despite losing its first two games of the season—59-13 at FBS No. 6 Oregon and 30-24 in double overtime to FCS No. 2 South Dakota State.

A few weeks ago, Vigen passed Sonny Holland on Montana State’s all-time wins list with his 48th victory. A statue of Holland stands in front of Bobcat Stadium and he is widely considered “the greatest Bobcat of them.”

Saturday, Vigen won for the 50th time as the head coach at Montana State. He is 20 wins behind Rob Ash (2007-2015) for the school record.

More importantly, his team is 1-0 in league play and the slog of last week’s anomaly against Mercyhurst seem a distant memory after the Bobcats boat-raced an old nemesis.

“It’s our expectation to go out and win every week and we have done that the last three weeks,” Vigen said. “To get to that milestone (50 wins), to me, it’s our first conference game THIS year and it’s our third win THIS year. And we need to figure out how to get another one next week.”

Montana State takes on Northern Arizona next weekend in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Colter Nuanez has covered the Big Sky Conference for 19 seasons and has directly covered Montana State since 2011. His work can be found at skylinesportsmt.com and he can be reached at Colter.Nuanez@gmail.com.

LONE PEAK FILM FESTIVAL DEBUTS, SHOWCASES MONTANA, INDIGENOUS, UPLIFTING STORIES A&E

BY CARLI JOHNSON

BIG SKY—From Sept. 19-21, The Waypoint hosted the first-ever Lone Peak Film Festival, transporting moviegoers into different worlds, lives and cultures. Over the course of three days, the festival screened a curated lineup of films and welcomed the community for viewing, discussions, panels and workshops.

The idea for the festival began two years ago with filmmaker and Bozeman community member Daniel Glick, who has worked in the film industry for over 20 years. He considered both Bozeman and Big Sky as potential locations and eventually partnered with Big Sky community member and Lone Mountain Land Company development leader Bayard Dominick, who joined the nonprofit festival’s founding board and helped lay the groundwork through community outreach and local partnerships.

The festival was built around four core pillars: Montana stories, Indigenous stories, conservation stories and stories of human resilience. In an interview with EBS, Glick noted how important it was to find stories that uplifted and inspired audience members.

“Most media focuses on the bad and all the stuff that’s wrong with the world,” Glick said. “At the same time, there are people all over the world who are trying to make things better for their communities, for themselves, for the planet. So, we decided that we wanted the films that we selected

to have that quality… focusing on the people [who] are trying to do good in the world and in their own ways, overcoming challenges.”

With the help of sponsors including $24,550 from Resort Tax, the organization was able to fly out and host a representative from nearly every film. In addition to screenings, the festival hosted learning sessions and mentorship panels covering writing, directing and producing with support from four invited mentors.

Glick noted many independent filmmakers face financial challenges, so the festival sought to honor artists with learning sessions, giving filmmakers a chance to ask questions about projects they’re working on and learn from industry experts.

The festival came together quickly, and planning accelerated when Liz Knowles joined the team as community builder and marketing lead. With only three months to prepare, Knowles helped secure sponsors, worked with local agency Peak Creative Designs to direct the festival’s visual identity, managed merchandise and graphics and oversaw marketing efforts.

With such short notice, Knowles emphasized the festival would not have come together without the collective community effort to make it a success. “Everybody just banded together with what they had and what they knew,” Knowles said. “I do have to shout out all the sponsors, all the funding that we got, so many donations of different kinds, it was really a community effort.”

The Waypoint’s main theater served as the primary screening venue. The Arts Council of Big Sky hosted an art installation in partnership with Montana State University’s American Indian Council, which included two short Indigenous films shown on a monitor, seven exhibit posters and an Impact Fair. The fair featured booths from local nonprofits and non-government associations to share their organization and how people can get involved.

Attendance was strong throughout the weekend. Screenings on Friday and Saturday were consistently full, according to Glick. Audience members stayed for post-film discussions, and the event saw a broad mix of attendees. Organizers emphasized that a key goal of the festival was to bring together different parts of the community to experience and discuss film.

“It couldn't have gone much better. For something like that to get together in three months is incredible,” said Glick beaming with joy at the success of the weekend.

Planning for year two is already underway. The main structure of the event will likely stay the same, with different films and possible year-round events. Organizers are open to additional community involvement and sponsorships.

“The first year set the tone,” Knowles said. “We’re already moving forward with plans for the next one.”

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COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

BIG SKY COMMUNITY WEEK

MONDAY, OCT. 6 TO FRIDAY, OCT. 10

From Monday, Oct. 6 to Friday, Oct. 10, Big Sky Community week will hold a variety of events throughout the area, including free workout classes, art classes, community governance updates, celebrations and opportunities to make voices and questions heard at informational forums. Big Sky Community Week’s events are free and open to the public.

Attendees will earn an entry into a raffle for every event they attend, with prizes including significant gift cards to local businesses.

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MITIGATING WILDLIFE-VEHICLE COLLISIONS THIS FALL ENVIRONMENT

BY BENJAMIN ALVA POLLEY

EBS CONTRIBUTOR

Each fall, as the seasons change, more animals become active. Bears seek extra calories to prepare for hibernation, while elk, deer, moose and bighorn sheep enter mating season, often less wary of roads. Many wildlife mothers encourage their young to strike out on their own in autumn. Migrating wildlife descend from high elevations to valleys in search of food, often leading to increased wildlifevehicle collisions, many of them at dawn and dusk. Over the past two months, wildlife-vehicle collisions on U.S. 191 killed four grizzlies, one black bear, two horses and a mule—and that’s not even counting elk, deer or moose.

“In terms of wildlife-vehicle collisions, we always see a spike in October and November,” said Elizabeth Fairbank, road ecologist for the Center for Large Landscape Conservation. “Those are typically the highest months in terms of wildlife vehicle conflict.”

According to the Western Transportation Institute, one to two million collisions happen annually between vehicles and large animals, resulting in approximately 29,000 human injuries and an estimated 200 fatalities. The cost generated is around $8 billion. In Montana alone, wildlifevehicle collisions involving deer, elk and moose between 2008 and 2017 resulted in annual costs exceeding $120 million. According to State Farm Insurance, Montana ranks second in the nation in the likelihood that a vehicle may crash into a large animal.

U.S. 191 is the primary thoroughfare connecting the high-density human populations of Gallatin Valley to Big Sky and West Yellowstone. This route hosts two hotspots for wildlife-vehicle collisions: the mouth of Gallatin Canyon and the junction of U.S. 191 and Montana Highway 64 (Lone Mountain Trail). Between 2008 and 2022, 2,625 whitetail deer, 625 mule deer and 312 elk were killed by vehicles in Gallatin County, making these

priority sites for conservationists and road experts due to the high number of wildlifevehicle collisions.

EBS previously reported that Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks spends up to $30,000 a year addressing wildlife conflicts around Bozeman. Increased human migration intensifies collision frequency.

“Human development disrupts wildlife habitats and changes animal movements. To mitigate these effects, we should plan locally for undeveloped, connected areas guided by a landscape-scale vision,” wrote Kylie Paul, a road ecologist with CLLC, in an email to EBS. “Community advocacy is crucial in persuading leaders to support wildlife conservation efforts. As roads cut through habitats and driver numbers increase, wildlife-vehicle crashes rise. Placing crossings at critical points helps prevent collisions, and these projects are more likely to be adopted with strong public backing.”

In addition to the season’s increased wildlife activity, autumn brings low-angled sunlight and road glare. And the Gallatin Canyon also poses an additional hazard: a major thoroughfare for tourists traveling to the park, drivers may lose focus on the scenic stretches after winding through the canyon.

“The top hotspot on 191 is just south of Gallatin Gateway to Spanish Creek, partly due to a resident elk herd,” Fairbank said. One wildlife photographer counted 18 dead elk in one year along this corridor.

A 2023 poll ranked wildlife crossings and barriers as top transportation priorities among Montanans.

“There’s always an appetite to do something quick and relatively inexpensive and easy to implement. Unfortunately, solutions like signs just aren’t particularly effective at changing driver behavior or reducing collisions,” Fairbank said.

CLLC, aiming to mitigate collisions worldwide and connect wildlife habitats, works to reduce wildlifevehicle collisions globally by studying ecological connectivity. It is working with state transportation officials to obtain funding for a wildlife crossing bridge over U.S. 191. The project advanced in part due to protected private land bordering the road. A $350 million federal pilot grant is available for all crossings, but demand outstrips the funds fivefold.

Major collision reduction—80 to 90%—requires overpasses, underpasses and fencing to steer animals to safe crossings, Fairbanks explained. Such solutions are costly and depend on preserved habitat on both sides.

“We don’t want to invest in expensive infrastructure for wildlife in a place that might not have habitat in 50 to 70 years,” she said. “There needs to be public support for any of these projects to move forward. So, regardless of funding or protected land on either side of the road, these projects won’t get done in places where people aren’t asking for them. If people want to see things like this happen, they need to be vocal about it.”

Benjamin Alva Polley is a place-based storyteller. His words have been published in Rolling Stone, Esquire, Field & Stream, The Guardian, Men’s Journal, Outside, Popular Science, Sierra, and other publications, and can be seen on his website.

$10 from each item purchased goes directly to the Center for Large Landscape Conservation and their Hwy 191 Wildlife Crossings Project.

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SEIZING A ONCE-IN-A-GENERATION CHANCE TO PROTECT THE GALLATIN AND MADISON RIVERS

BY KRISTIN GARDNER GUEST COLUMNIST

Twenty-five years ago, as a graduate student at Montana State University, I began working on the Gallatin River. In the evenings, after a day of collecting water samples and measuring streamflows, I’d start casting.

The river would come alive—bugs dancing, trout rising, the light turning everything golden. The precision of science gave way to the poetry of fly fishing. It was a beautiful contrast. Data gave me purpose, and the river gave me inspiration. Today, as the chief executive and science officer of the Gallatin River Task Force, both give me a responsibility to protect this incredible place. Right now we have a truly rare opportunity to do just that—permanently protect two of southwest Montana’s most iconic rivers,

the Gallatin and the Madison.

On Aug. 1, Rep. Ryan Zinke introduced the Greater Yellowstone Recreation Enhancement and Tourism (GYREAT) Act, a landmark piece of legislation that, if passed, would be Montana’s largest contribution to the Wild and Scenic Rivers system since 1976. The Act would designate nearly 100 miles of new protections across the Gallatin and Madison watersheds, including the entire 39 miles of the Upper Gallatin River.

The bill is a culmination of more than a decade’s worth of grassroots organizing, public engagement and common-sense compromise—the benchmarks of how good policy gets put to work in Montana— through a transparent, thorough and inclusive process.

From its headwaters in Yellowstone National Park to its confluence with the Missouri River, the Gallatin River is our community’s life force. We know from our work that its cold clean waters support healthy

trout and aquatic insect populations, abundant wildlife, vital agriculture activities, and a world-class outdoor recreation economy. Similarly, the Madison River is also an ecological, cultural and economic powerhouse, vital to both local ranchers and the outdoor industry businesses that welcome visitors from within Montana, across the country, and around the globe.

Healthy rivers don’t happen by accident. They are the result of generations of dedicated stewardship, and without substantial action, they are at risk. Faced with increasing pressures, these rivers need our help. This is why the time is now for the GYREAT Act.

This bill perfectly balances Montana’s needs with its enduring values by protecting access, allowing for continued agricultural use, and ensuring continued operation of existing dams. Putting this legislation to work will secure our future, protecting these freeflowing stretches of the Gallatin and Madison rivers that possess exceptional scenic, cultural, economic and ecological values.

Montana has fallen behind neighboring states in Wild and Scenic River protections. Idaho has nearly 900 protected river miles and Oregon has almost 2,000, while Montana has just 388. With increasing climate uncertainty and pressure on our public lands, it’s Montana’s time to match our actions to our values.

This is our moment. We applaud Rep. Ryan Zinke’s leadership to protect our most cherished assets, and we urge further support from our fellow Montanans and our elected leaders in Washington. We need to protect what makes Montana special—our clean, cold, free-flowing rivers. We don’t get many chances like this. Let’s not waste it.

Read and sign your name in support of the GYREAT Act on the Montanans for Healthy Rivers website: healthyriversmt.org/gyreatact

Kristin Gardner is the chief executive and science officer of the Gallatin River Task Force, where she is focused on protecting, restoring, and inspiring stewardship of the Upper Gallatin River. For the past 25 years, she has been building a data set on the Gallatin, which she and her team use to inform their work. She lives in Big Sky with her husband, son, and yellow lab assistant, Thea.

THRIVING LANDSCAPES: WILDLIFE LIVES HERE TOO—RETHINKING YOUR OUTDOOR SPACES ENVIRONMENT

BY ABBY BUTLER EBS COLUMNIST

The land that makes up modern-day Big Sky has had many uses throughout its history. Once the hunting grounds of Indigenous peoples like the Tukudeka, then home to pioneering ranchers like Augustus Franklin Crail, the area is now the site of an unincorporated mountain community and home to over 2,300 people and, according to Visit Big Sky, almost 388,000 visitors a year.

With development comes the inevitable loss, fragmentation, and degradation of wildlife habitat. When human development replaces or even encroaches on wildlife habitat, the ability for wildlife to find food, water, cover and places to raise their young is heavily impacted. Disturbance from development doesn’t just take away native plants and key migration corridors, it also introduces the threat of invasive species.

Construction equipment carrying weed seeds on its tires and in the topsoil it delivers to new homes, landscapes designed with non-natives species such as Kentucky bluegrass that require heavy water and fertilizer inputs—all these Big Sky norms make it harder and harder for wildlife to find suitable habitat. Whether they’re passing through HOA open spaces filled with Canada thistle and oxeye daisy—noxious weeds unsuitable for consumption—or bypassing altogether the complex maze of houses on top of historic migration corridors, wildlife are being negatively impacted by development and invasive weeds.

While it’s impossible to restore the land Big Sky now inhabits to what it once was, the land that remains can still steward the wildlife that residents and visitors of Big Sky deeply care for. And to be clear, wildlife doesn’t mean just charismatic megafauna—bears, elk, moose, bighorn sheep—but also the wide diversity of native insects, solitary bees and birds that call this area home.

To begin, wildlife can’t make use of land composed of nothing but invasive plants. Management of invasive species on your property and in shared open spaces is essential to allowing resilient native plants to return. Unfortunately, spreading wildflower seed on topsoil containing five years worth of oxeye daisy seeds—seeds that can last in the soil for up to 39 years—will only result in… you guessed it, more oxeye daisies.

When you are able to plant, choosing native, water-wise and fire-wise plants ensures that you’re providing habitat for wildlife that have co-evolved with these species for thousands of years. For those perhaps a tad bitter about the tops of their wildflowers getting taken out by elk, here’s a reminder that if something is not eating your plants, then your garden is not part of the ecosystem. However, there are a handful of plant species less palatable to Big Sky’s voracious

ungulates that still support other wildlife. When it comes to landscaping for wildlife, it’s vital to find a balance that promotes both wildlife and the safety of your home. For Big Sky, fire safety is paramount. But following the recommendations for defensible spaces doesn’t mean a barren landscape of rock and more rock. With Alpenscapes as a free resource to landowners in Big Sky, this balance has never been more achievable.

There are also ways to support wildlife in the winter, when the threat of fire cools and snow drifts in. Leaving plant litter—such as dead stems, seed heads and uncut garden plants—provides nesting sites for native bees or seeds for overwintering birds. Leaving old logs and sticks (coarse woody debris) in small piles in your backyard furnishes a cozy home for a plethora of overwintering insects. Worried about fire? When the snow melts, cut back those dead plants and move that fallen wood away from your property.

Even the smallest of properties can have an impact on the future of Big Sky’s wildlife. Managing noxious weeds, cultivating patches of native grasses, wildflowers, shrubs, and trees in your own yard, and encouraging your HOA to manage your neighborhood’s open space for wildlife goes a long way. Imagine a Big Sky where it’s commonplace to see neighborhoods blooming with blanketflower, Idaho fescue, and sticky geranium, united under the shared goal of stewarding the land we all love.

Abby Butler is the conservation program coordinator for Grow Wild, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that works to conserve native species in the Upper Gallatin Watershed through education, habitat restoration, and collaborative land stewardship. As an organization dedicated to land stewardship and conservation, Grow Wild partners with HOAs and county weed districts to improve wildlife habitat in open spaces through education and technical support, equipping HOAs and residents with the knowledge and skills needed for long-term management. For more information, visit growwildmt.org.

IT’S TIME TO PROTECT

THE ELK AND DEER HERDS OF GALLATIN GATEWAY AND BIG SKY

3,562

Deer and Elk were killed by vehicles in Gallatin County since 2008.

PRIORITIZE WILDLIFE CROSSING SOLUTIONS. SUPPORT AND DONATE TODAY.

LET’S DO MORE THAN DEFEND PUBLIC LANDS, LET’S PROTECT THEM

BY SCOTT CHRISTENSEN GUEST COLUMNIST

Much has recently been written about the galvanizing force of public lands. Seeing all parts of the political spectrum come together in opposition to Congressional efforts to sell public land is a good reminder of the critically important role these lands play in supporting communities, businesses, and the world-renowned fish and wildlife found in Montana and Greater Yellowstone. The demonstration of such unified support for public land sent a clear message to our elected congressional leaders in Montana, and they deserve credit for opposing the short-sighted and unpopular notion of selling or transferring public land.

Of course, the attacks on public land keep coming, with the recent proposal to open millions of acres of the most pristine backcountry hunting and fishing areas in the country to development by rescinding the longstanding Roadless Rule. If it seems like there is a lot happening in the “defend public land space,” well, there is. And in Montana, keeping public lands in public hands and not blasting roads into our favorite backcountry areas is a big deal. Let’s keep showing up in ways that make that crystal clear to our political leaders.

It’s often said in sports that a good defense is the best offense. In that vein, I suggest we strive for more than simply defending public land from the highest bidder or biggest dozer. Let’s proactively protect them. This is the best investment we can make for ourselves, our children, and our way life. Fortunately, there are two opportunities right now in southwest Montana to do just that.

First, the Gallatin Forest Partnership, with support from hundreds of businesses, more than 2,500 Montanans and many local elected officials, has asked the state’s senators and representatives to introduce and champion the Greater Yellowstone Conservation and Recreation Act. This community-based proposed legislation will forever protect 250,000 acres of our wild backyard in the Gallatin and Madison ranges. The bill protects

prized backcountry areas from future development and secures the current recreational footprint, allowing continued access to your favorite trails and forest destinations.

And second, Congressman Ryan Zinke recently introduced the Greater Yellowstone Recreation Enhancement and Tourism Act to safeguard two of the state’s most iconic waters, the Gallatin and Madison rivers. This bill, introduced in July in the House of Representatives, will protect 100 miles of some of the best trout fishing water anywhere on the planet and enjoys broad bipartisan support, including from Gallatin and Madison County commissions.

With so much on the line for the places that support our way of life, let’s demonstrate our collective love for public lands and show up like Montanans to protect them. Please join me in asking Sens. Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy and Reps. Zinke and Troy Downing to not only defend our great public lands and waters, but to lead the way in protecting them.

These leaders have two wildly popular opportunities to ensure the lands and rivers that make southwest Montana what it is today, remain for generations to come. And that’s the best legacy any of us could ask for.

Scott Christensen is the executive director of Greater Yellowstone Coalition.

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS SUPPORT ZINKE’S WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS BILL

BY JENNIFER BOYER AND BILL TODD GUEST COLUMNISTS

On behalf of the Gallatin and Madison county commissions, we would like to publicly thank Congressman Ryan Zinke for his visionary leadership to safeguard the Gallatin and Madison Rivers as future Wild and Scenic Rivers. On Aug. 1, Zinke introduced legislation called the Greater Yellowstone Recreation Enhancement and Tourism Act, which would designate nearly 100 miles of streams across our two counties as national Wild and Scenic Rivers.

The Gallatin and Madison rivers are the flagship rivers of this legislation and undoubtedly deserve this designation due to their outsized role in supporting our outdoor recreation and agricultural industries, as well as for their part in providing exceptional habitat for our abundant fish and wildlife populations. These rivers are the lifeblood of our two counties. They are economic drivers and ecological havens. But the bill doesn’t stop there. It also includes Hyalite Creek, an important drinking water source for the community of Bozeman, and Cabin Creek, a native Westslope cutthroat trout stronghold.

Zinke’s messaging about this bill has been spot on. He wrote, “striking the right balance between

conservation and multiple use of our resources is the Montana way.” Elsewhere he said, “this is a red, white and blue issue.” In our mind, river conservation unites Montanans, and nothing could be more patriotic than protecting our most prized and vulnerable rivers by using the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to do so.

The Gallatin and Madison county commissions have heard for many years from our constituents about the enormous local support that exists for Wild and Scenic River protections of the Gallatin and Madison rivers and their tributaries. The Greater Yellowstone Recreation Enhancement and Tourism Act was introduced after more than a decade of input from family farmers, ranchers, river runners, riverside landowners, fly shops, guest lodges, business coalitions, chambers of commerce, watershed groups, sportsmen and conservation groups, the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management.

Tribal nations like the Eastern Shoshone, Blackfeet and Crow, whose ancestors are the original stewards of this region, also engaged with input from the Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council. This legislation is proof that interests as diverse as the Fishing Outfitters Association of Montana, Madison Valley Ranchlands Group, and Lone Mountain Land Company can find common

ground and recognize the health of our region’s future is inseparable from the health of our rivers.

In straightforward terms, the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act maintains the free-flow, water quality, and remarkable values of a river segment without impacting private property rights, water rights, grazing and fire management. As a Whitefish resident and whitewater paddler, Congressman Zinke is familiar with the long-standing success of the Flathead Wild and Scenic Rivers system— the three forks of the Flathead were protected by Congress in 1976. We are grateful for Zinke crafting this bill for our region and acknowledging that the Gallatin and Madison rivers deserve the same designation.

As this bill moves through the House of Representatives, we know it will need support in the Senate. We encourage Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, two leaders who know these rivers well, to introduce a companion bill in the Senate and work closely with Congressman Zinke to pass this legislation.

Jennifer Boyer, chairman of Gallatin County Commission

Bill Todd, chairman of Madison County Commission

DISPATCHES FROM THE WILD: RECENT STUDY SHOWS MULE DEER AVOID PLACES OVERRUN WITH INVASIVE SPECIES

BY BENJAMIN ALVA POLLEY EBS COLUMNIST

A study published in September in Rangeland Ecology & Management reveals that mule deer actively avoid areas dominated by cheatgrass and other invasive species. If left unaddressed, these invasive plants threaten to eliminate key mule deer habitat in northeastern Wyoming. There is hope, though.

Mule deer prefer habitats with low levels of invasive grasses, relying on healthy sagebrush and other native perennial plants for food. The research indicates that as cheatgrass and similar invasive species spread, mule deer will increasingly abandon areas with more than 13% invasive cover. Significant avoidance occurs when invasive grasses exceed 20% of the land, potentially leading to a loss of half of their high-quality habitat over the next two decades without intervention.

Kurt Smith, the study’s lead author and senior research scientist at the University of Wyoming, emphasizes the urgency: “The picture is grim if we sit back and do nothing. But there’s plenty of hope that we can maintain big game populations if we strategically treat cheatgrass and other invasives,” Smith said in a story by UWagnews.

To analyze mule deer movement, Smith and his colleagues GPS-collared over 100 deer and mapped their movements against vegetation types using the Rangeland Analysis Platform. They forecasted

two scenarios: one where invasive grasses continued to spread unchecked, and another where active management, including herbicide application, reduced invasive species and allowed native plants to recover.

After compiling deer movement and vegetation data, the researchers forecast what the future might look like under two scenarios: one where invasive grasses continue to spread across the sagebrush biome at current rates, and another where active management actions—like applying herbicides— reduce the weeds and allow native perennials to recover.

Without protection for core sagebrush areas, invasive annual grasses could reduce highquality mule deer habitat by 62% in the next 20 years. To combat this, various partners across

the West are developing collaborative solutions for landowners and land managers to conserve sagebrush rangelands and the wildlife they support. Programs like IMAGINE and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Working Lands for Wildlife offer tools, funding and technical support for managing invasive grasses. Meanwhile, the Wyoming Migration Initiative collaborates with agencies and Tribes to provide migration maps and science-based strategies for prioritizing weed treatments that benefit the region’s iconic big game species.

Benjamin Alva Polley is a place-based storyteller. His words have been published in Rolling Stone, Esquire, Field & Stream, The Guardian, Men’s Journal, Outside, Popular Science, Sierra, and other publications, and can be seen on his website.

DINING

A LA CARTE: COOKBOOK KEEPS MEMORIES ALIVE

BY RACHEL HERGETT EBS COLUMNIST

I was not expecting to get a food column from the Stories and Songs writers retreat at Chico Hot Springs this month. I could easily wax poetic about the weekend brunch in Chico’s restaurant, but this trip was about the craft and not the food. Or so I thought.

Stories and Songs is a weeklong retreat, but I was there on a special day pass for locals—one offering a taste of the whole experience that was better suited to my budget. I wandered blindly into the first session, scanning the questioning faces as a new person entered their space. That’s when I met Sherrie Hansen, who gave me a small smile from under the brim of her fabric hat. I was immediately drawn to her warmth, sliding into the seat next to her as the facilitator asked about my writing.

This was Sherrie’s third such retreat, I learn between sessions. She’s the author of 22 novels, often mysteries with an element of romance and second chances at love. Each features a wildflower in the name and weaves the flower’s attributes into the story. You can learn about Sherrie’s novels at bluebellebooks.com. More importantly for us, though, she has also written a cookbook.

Back in 1991, Sherrie “paid $18,000 for a dilapidated Victorian house in St. Ansgar, Iowa, narrowly rescuing it from the bulldozer’s grips.” From that house, she created the Blue Belle Inn B&B and Tea House, which she ran for 30 years, treating guests to a variety of recipes she culled from her own family and travels. I love hearing her talk about the places that have inspired her, of living in Germany or roaming the Scottish Highlands. The book, “The Blue Belle Inn B&B and Tea House Cookbook,” draws from these experiences, from the decades of travels, of catering special events and murder mystery dinner parties at the inn and refining the offerings for customers. I started taking notes when Sherrie started talking

about legacy. Her beloved Blue Belle Inn is no longer hosting guests. She sold it a few years ago, moving to “a picturesque acreage” in rural Iowa, near her pastor husband’s church.

“I don’t have any children, so it really is the way that my memory will live on,” Sherrie said.

I rifle through the pages, finding a section of cheesecakes that speak directly to my stomach, and perhaps my own history. Among them is a clootie dumpling cheesecake. She’s impressed that I have any knowledge of clootie dumplings, so I tell her about my search at the end of last year for the origin of my family’s “big dumpling.”

Sherrie’s cookbook is nearly 300 pages, and though many of the recipes sound fancy, their preparation is not complicated. These recipes were meant to be those she could whip up for hungry guests on short notice, or create in large quantities in a small kitchen.

“They had to be recipes that sounded elegant and tasted exquisite, but were easy to cook,” she said. Sherrie’s cookbook, which was published in 2023 and is available on Amazon, was a labor of love. Writing a cookbook, she said, was harder than any of her 22 novels. It was a proofing nightmare, requiring an extraordinary amount of time. Before she hands me a copy to take with me, Sherrie rifles through the pages, pen in hand. She’s intent on fixing two errors that slipped through. One is shorting the amount of sour cream in a cottage pie that only makes it a bit more healthy. The other is double the amount of butter in a caramel whiskey sauce. Too much butter doesn’t sound so bad, I tell her, but apparently it takes away from the sauce’s silky texture.

Somehow, Sherrie’s corrections make it feel more authentic, akin to a well-worn cookbook with notes in the margins and all manner of drips scattered over the pages. It feels like home.

Recipes include little snippets about their history, where Sherrie first encountered them or why they call to her. There are also excerpts from the novels that speak about food. I ask the impossible: What is her favorite recipe in the book? Sherrie’s first thought is the Swedish meatballs from an old family recipe smothered in a cream gravy. She then points out an inn staple from the book’s cover, a seasoned pork and Parmesan stuffed pumpkin.

I can imagine Sherrie bustling about the kitchen, infusing each recipe with love for the guests at the Blue Belle Inn. Though the inn is shuttered, Sherrie hopes its spirit carries on anytime someone makes one of the recipes and thinks of her or the tea house.

“Recipes are so provocative,” she said, and the Blue Belle Inn is alive through them.

Rachel Hergett is a foodie and cook from Montana. She is arts editor emeritus at the Bozeman Daily Chronicle and has written for publications such as Food Network Magazine and Montana Quarterly. Rachel is also the host of the Magic Monday Show on KGLT-FM and teaches at Montana State University.

BY LESLIE KILGORE EBS STAFF

Colton Weskamp, regional manager of Borealis Fuels & Logistics, grew up in the Gallatin Valley and first got his start in the industry working for his father’s propane business, Madison River Propane.

After his family sold their business, he gained more experience working for the city of Billings, but always wanted to return to the area he called home for most of his life.

Now, he oversees the Belgrade branch of Borealis Fuels & Logistics, which services Gallatin Valley, Big Sky and the Ennis region. Explore Big Sky caught up with Weskamp to find out more about his role, the growth in business and what he loves about working and living in Montana.

This series is part of a paid partnership with the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce. The following answers have been edited for brevity.

Explore Big Sky: When did you first come to the area, and what initially brought you here?

Colton Weskamp: I first moved to Bozeman in 2009. My dad got a job here, so he moved the whole family from northern California to Montana. I went to high school in Belgrade and graduated in 2010. I grew up in the Gallatin Valley, but I spent a few years in Billings working for the city as a water operator, and then I moved back to Bozeman.

EBS: What did working as a water operator in Billings entail?

CW: I was installing underground water mains and fixing leaks, doing water samples, and other things like that for the city of Billings. I’ve also been in the propane industry since 2010 with my family, so I never really got out of it.

EBS: How did you get your start in 2010?

CW: My dad owned a propane business before we moved to Montana and sold it to Heritage Propane, which was Northern Energy. And they offered him a job to come run their offices in Belgrade and West Yellowstone. He then opened Madison River Propane, and I worked for him there, learning the business.

EBS: Can you tell us about the services you offer at Borealis?

CW: We are a full-service business. We can install above-ground and underground propane tanks, we run gas lines, we service propane heaters, propane systems, and we deliver to commercial, agricultural and residential customers in the Gallatin Valley.

EBS: Where is most of the company’s work, and where are you growing?

CW: We do a lot of residential work in Big Sky. At Moonlight Basin, Spanish Peaks and in Bozeman and Belgrade. We also service the Ennis area.

EBS: What do you do for your agriculture customers? Is there anything particularly interesting or different from what your residential customers receive?

CW: Yes. Many ranches have things like big irrigation pumps or grain dryers and big heaters. We service all of those. And some have a few 1,000-gallon propane tanks, some have 30,000-gallon propane tanks with vaporizers hooked up.

EBS: So what skills do you use, and what do you do day-to-day for the company?

CW: Growing up in the industry, I started as a customer service representative in my dad’s company at age 19, and then worked my way up to doing services, setting up propane tanks, and working on propane tanks in general. And then I managed my own store. My dad eventually sold his company to Thomson Gas, a more corporate nationwide company.

EBS: How does Borealis differ from some of its nationwide competitors?

CW: It’s a good-sized company, but very locallyfocused. We have 15 different locations in the U.S. and Canada. The leaders give us the reins to run our own branch and grow our own business. They often work behind the scenes and let the local managers take care of what they need to do on a day-to-day basis.

EBS: What do you think is the most challenging thing about working in your industry? What are some things that people might not know about?

CW: The most challenging thing, other than the weather here, would be helping people get familiar with how to shut off and look at their propane tanks and not be scared or intimidated. If there is an emergency and somebody smells gas, the first thing they need to do is shut off their propane and be comfortable doing so. And then also having everything up to code, so there are no setbacks.

EBS: Right. So, do you see more setbacks with all the growth in the Gallatin Valley?

CW: Yes. A lot of the newer homes are building AC units, and they are adding different vents on the heaters and the propane system. They often put them too close to the regulators. So those have to get vented away, or they have to change certain things after being installed, in order to be up to code.

EBS: As Gallatin Valley and Big Sky grow, and more new residents build homes, is it apparent that propane and heating systems are an important thing for people to know more about?

CW: Absolutely, everyone’s underground propane tanks have to be tested every three years, and they have to have cathodic protection hooked up to them, or your underground gas line, if it's steel or copper, could fail. So that should be tested annually. And they should have a leak check done on their propane system annually.

EBS: Is there a good way to communicate that information to all of your new and existing customers?

CW: When we acquire a new customer, we do a leak check on the system. And then we also do a walkthrough. We see what they have for appliances, we make sure everything is adequate and up to date, and also up to code. The regulators on the propane systems have to be replaced every 20 years, so we also check those too.

EBS: What do you think is the biggest change in your industry right now in the area?

CW: Just keeping up with all the growth and development is a big change. There are more and more propane companies coming in every day, which is good. It's great. Everybody needs competition, and we all want to acquire new customers and be able to service all the new residents.

EBS: Does everyone need propane?

CW: Yes. Absolutely. Everybody needs propane or natural gas. Some houses go all electric, but if they want a generator for backup when the power goes out, those have to be diesel or propane. In Bozeman, there is a lot of natural gas, but in Big Sky, there is none, so almost everyone has propane. It’s definitely a big industry in the area. And getting bigger.

EBS: What is your most important goal in ensuring Borealis continues to be successful here in southwest Montana?

CW: We want to make sure that no one ever runs out of gas, especially in the winter. And that we are always able to service our customers, no matter the weather or driving conditions.

EBS: We like hearing that. Can you also tell us your favorite thing about growing up in Montana? What are some of your best memories?

CW: I grew up hunting and fishing and Montana has the best hunting and fishing of any state. I think if you're into the outdoors, Montana is the place to be. Exploring all the national forests and all the public lands, it can’t be beat.

EBS: We couldn’t agree more. Thanks for your time and for serving the Big Sky and Gallatin Valley residents.

CW: Absolutely. Winter is coming, and we are ready.

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