Tuesday, May 5th, 2026
Good morning, Missoula. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 5th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Forest Service launched an online map showing Kootenai trails open or closed until fall, and a 2025 Lolo Creek restoration at Earl Tennant Campground guides future projects. Over 5,000 people joined downtown Missoula for the opening of the Clark Fork River Market and Brew Fest set for 26 Saturdays. KPAX
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ GasBuddy’s analysis shows Montana gasoline averaged $4.34 per gallon today — up 43.4 cents since last week and $1.18 more than a year ago, while Missoula stations report prices around $4.39 amid statewide ranges from $3.64 to $4.99. Newstalk KGVO
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Hellgate High School alumnus Paxson Swierc received a $250,000 Dennis Washington Leadership Graduate Scholarship to pursue his Ph.D. in astrophysics at Northwestern University. Missoulian
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The U.S. Forest Service is cutting funding and consolidating research stations into a hub in Fort Collins, raising concerns among local experts who fear local fire science will suffer as fire season nears. Newstalk KGVO
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Missoula County is tracking the Montana Department of Environmental Quality review of an amended mineral exploration project near Lincoln—proposing 21 bore holes at 2,300 feet—to assess potential downstream impacts on the Blackfoot, and officials will weigh in once a decision is issued. Missoula Current
- ➤ Montana boaters can skip validation stickers following a change in Coast Guard funding rules, but they must still register motorized watercraft, complete inspections (to help prevent invasive species), and follow life jacket requirements. KPAX
- ➤ The Missoula Parking Commission is considering a permit system costing $85 a year or $20 a semester to manage 2,000 vehicles in the University District where only 530 parking spots exist — a shortage that residents worry limits everyday access. KPAX
- ➤ A federal appeals court case is challenging the long-standing ban on home distilling, and although a recent ruling sided with the Hobby Distillers Association, nothing will change for Montanans until any potential Supreme Court review is completed. Newstalk KGVO
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Local river experts advise wearing a personal flotation device and planning your outing on local rivers as warmer temperatures boost water recreation today. They stress caution around hazards (bridges, boulders, trees) and remind swimmers not to underestimate fast, cold currents. MontanaRightNow
- ➤ Missoula Public Health is hosting youth vaccine clinics on a first-come, first-served basis ahead of summer and the back-to-school rush in August. Eligible young residents can get vaccinated to stay healthy for the busy months ahead. Missoulian
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Sparkettes of Montana recently competed at the Big Sky State Games and won multiple awards including the first Overall Judges Pick Award for the team. Coach Brianna Klinker said the baton twirlers practiced extensively (from December to April) and overcame limited local opportunities. KPAX
- ➤ Former Montana Grizzlies players are chasing pro football dreams this offseason. Stevie Rocker Jr. signs with the CFL while Kenzel Lawler gets a second NFL shot, joining six other alumni set to pursue professional opportunities. Missoulian
- ➤ The Montana Lady Griz unveiled its upgraded basketball center, featuring a modern locker room, alumni lounge, and training spaces inside Adams Center at Dahlberg Arena over the weekend after extensive fundraising and donor support. Newstalk KGVO
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Unknown Mortal Orchestra Live
8 PM – 12 AM — The Wilma — Ticket prices vary — Experience the sounds of Unknown Mortal Orchestra from their latest album, V, in an intimate setting.
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The California Honeydrops - Lovin' Made Easy Tour
7-11 p.m. — The Wilma — Cost info not specified — Experience the electrifying retro-soul sound of The California Honeydrops performing live.
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Beast Your Biz 2026
4-7 p.m. — Zootown Arts Community Center — No-host bar — Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and kick off your learning journey with appetizers and networking.
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2nd Annual Sidewalk Sale
2nd Annual Sidewalk Sale, with racks starting at $5. The sale is from 10-4 at 1008 Burlington Ave. Missoula.
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Trey Anastasio Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — The Wilma — Cost info not available — Experience an evening of exceptional music from renowned composer and guitarist Trey Anastasio.
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Missoula Villages Downtown Walking History Tour
1-2:30 p.m. — The Wilma — Free for Village members — Discover untold stories of Missoula's historic district through a unique walking tour.
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Bruce Molsky Concert
7-11 p.m. — Longstaff House — Ticket prices TBD — Experience Grammy-nominated Bruce Molsky as he brings traditional sounds to life with fiddle, banjo, and guitar.
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Trails, Rivers, and Forests Expo
5-9 p.m. — Trail Head River Sports — Free entry — Celebrate the outdoors with activities and live music at this community-focused expo featuring local non-profits and businesses.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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