Environment

A Montana district court ruled in favor of an environmental group that challenged the state's approval of new septic systems in the Gallatin Valley. The group argued that the state failed to assess cumulative impacts from the septic systems and how they may harm the river.

Permitting for fast-tracked mining project in the Bitterroot moves forward; Trump AI order could undercut state regulations; Health Department applies for federal recertification of Montana State Hospital.

Raising domestic livestock in wild places comes with challenges. Especially when ranching happens alongside predators like grizzly bears and wolves. New research sheds light on decades-old practice of monitoring livestock and deterring predators on horseback.

Libby residents may not have access to drinkable tap water for some time. Lincoln County health officials issued a boil water notice last week. President Trump has approved an emergency declaration that allows up to $5 million in federal funding to support the health and safety of Montanans living in the affected areas.

Wolves could soon be removed from the Endangered Species List in the lower 48. The U.S. House of Representatives voted Thursday to pass a resolution to delist wolves. This is the latest in a years-long battle over federal protections for the animals.

Last week’s atmospheric river dropped over 12 inches of rain across northwest Montana, melting snow and triggering flooding across the region. December rains are more likely as a result of human-caused climate change, says State Climatologist Kelsey Jencso.

To grizzlies, they're unbearable. To wildlife managers they're a game changer. Drones mounted with thermal cameras are increasingly being used to help reduce conflicts between people and bears. Managers say drones provide them a safer option for hazing bears, and see more technological advances on the horizon.

Emergency managers are releasing water from a dam south of Libby they say is at risk of failing. It comes after a storm last week that brought flooding and high winds to the area. More rain and high winds are expected this week.

A group of young Montanans are asking the state Supreme Court to overturn new laws that weaken the state’s ability to regulate planet warming emissions, and exclude some fossil fuel projects from environmental review. This filing comes a year after they won a landmark ruling over Montana's constitutional right to a "clean and healthful environment."

The Trump administration in November prioritized approval of a rare earth mineral mine at the headwaters of the Bitterroot River. But the project faces strong opposition from the public, local government and members of Montana's congressional delegation.