Good morning, Missoula.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has launched youth hunts that let kids aged 10-15 try pheasant and waterfowl hunting this weekend and deer hunting on Oct.

16-17 — all youth must have a valid license and be with a licensed adult.

The Missoula Redevelopment Agency will soon hire a consultant to study the feasibility of adding a recreational skating ribbon at Caras Park from the Downtown Master Plan proposal—examining space, cost, and design details.

If the study proves the idea workable, city officials will boost park use by offering winter ice skating and summer roller skating—making the park a year-round destination.

Thompson River Animal Care Shelter in Thompson Falls will receive a new batch of dogs early this week—rescue partners and dedicated drivers are transporting the pups from kill shelters, and the shelter asks for community support through adoptions and donations.

Today in Montana, severe drought continues in key basins and frost is expected Tuesday morning as regions like the Upper Missoula Basin brace for colder air.

A fatal plane crash near Ferndale has sparked an investigation into a Canadian kit-built aircraft while an animal shelter remains closed after drug smoke forced an evacuation—local concerns also include park staff cuts, elk poaching penalties and proposed offshore mineral mapping.

The University of Montana will celebrate American Indian Heritage Day on Friday—launching a week of themed events that include a sunrise ceremony, craft vendors and Native food offerings on campus.

This 28th annual event honors over 600 Native American students and highlights the unique traditions they bring to UM.

After a Florida home experienced a black bear break-in with the animal shot in the bathroom, Montana homeowners are urged to secure food and trash as bears grow bolder this fall — officials advise locking garages and closing feeders to prevent encounters.

Montana’s fire season is winding down with only one new small fire in the past 24 hours—adding to 28 active fires, while human-caused blazes account for 863 fires and total acreage burned may top 72,000 by year-end.

The Missoula Redevelopment Agency board of commissions recommended buying a 2.5-acre lot next to the Bitterroot Branch Trail for $1.3 million to fill a gap in the Southgate Crossing project purchased last November—city council will review the acquisition early next month while due diligence continues. This move aims to connect the development with planned improvements to the area's street grid.

Crews are building 16 off-street parking spaces at Duncan Drive trailhead—no parking is allowed at the cul-de-sac until mid-October.

Missoula Parks and Recreation says the project will improve safety and trail access and is funded mostly by a $100,000 grant.

Rep. Jodee Etchart warned that concentrated 7-OH kratom products sold online and in local stores have led to 29 deaths in Montana since 2020—she urged lawmakers to rapidly schedule them under state law, enforce strict retail checks and ensure clear product labeling.

Providence Montana named Dr. Daniel Spoon as its new chief medical officer on Monday; he will give oversight to hospitals and clinics across the system—he also leads research in cardiovascular care.

Missoula Elementary School Free Movie Night

📍 Gates open at 5:00PM | 🎟️ FREE admission for students & families | 🍿 Concessions will be open — no outside food or drink allowed

Fall Beer & Wine Fest

5-8 p.m. — The Trough — $50 per person — Sample local brews and wines while enjoying live music and delicious bites.

ClimateFEST

Kickoff Climate Solutions Week in Caras Park with the 7th annual ClimateFEST, Saturday, September 27, 10AM - 2PM! Featuring dozens of local organizations and businesses, this free, family-friendly event celebrates climate solutions -- from clean energy and electrification, to art and advocacy.

Late Night Radio Performance

7-10 p.m. — Monk's Bar — $10 cover — Experience the vibrant sounds of Late Night Radio as they electrify the night with innovative electronic beats.

2025 ZooTown Challenge

10 AM – 2 PM — Washington-Grizzly Stadium — Race entry required — Compete in six challenging obstacle course races for all ages in beautiful Missoula.

2025 Ignite Conference

8 AM – 4 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Missoula - Edgewater — Check website for registration fees — A dynamic conference for PR and marketing professionals with networking, insights, and inspiration.

Scott H. Biram Live Performance

7-8 p.m. — Monk's Bar — Cover charge at the door — Experience the powerhouse sound of Scott H. Biram and his diverse musical talents.

Cyclops Performance at Badlander

5-8 p.m. — The Badlander — $10 cover — Experience the explosive sounds of Cyclops blending heavy music with experimental dubstep.

University of Montana Homecoming Parade

12-2 p.m. — Downtown Missoula Partnership — Free entry — Celebrate Homecoming with a vibrant parade featuring the Big Sky Horse Park float.

Montana Grizzlies vs. Sacred Heart Pioneers

1-2:30 p.m. — Washington-Grizzly Stadium — Tickets required — Catch the thrilling college baseball showdown between the Grizzlies and Pioneers.