Dustin Temple

Recent surveys have found the lowest trout populations on record in some of southwest Montana’s most iconic rivers, but the exact causes of the decline remain a mystery.

The director of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) committed the full resources of the department in response to a historic population crash in some of southwest Montana’s most iconic trout fisheries.

Gov. Greg Gianforte announced Friday that Director Hank Worsech is retiring after 21 years with the agency, and more than two years at its helm. Worsech began medical leave in February due to health issues.

Federal environmental officials released their proposed plan to clean up a defunct aluminum smelter in Columbia Falls. Officials announced that they’re going to spend close to $27 million on three habitat restoration projects across Montana. A Wyoming district court has ruled in favor of hunters who crossed corners between public and private lands.