Good morning, Missoula.

UM won the annual Can the Cats food drive competition against MSU, and it raised more than half-a-million pounds of food — along with over $893,000 to help Montana families in need.

Missoula is considering a new river wave and Class II rapids on the Clark Fork River as part of the West Broadway Corridor project—public comments are open and the multi-year plan will finish by 2031.

Missoula’s annual Santa Flyover tradition is asking for donations through the Missoula Downtown Foundation to cover costs for equipment upkeep, fuel and pilot fees—event dates are not yet announced.

The funds will help keep the holiday event alive for future celebrations.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is investigating two poaching incidents west of Missoula—one where a white-tailed deer was shot and left to waste at Blue Mountain Recreation Area on November 18th or 19th and another where a black bear cub was killed near Silverthorn Creek between November 20th and 22nd, and officials urge anyone with information to come forward for a reward of up to $1,000.

Environmental groups have sued the BLM over its plan to divert spring water from the Grasshopper Watershed west of Dillon—arguing the project will further destroy critical sage grouse habitat and worsen the species’ 31% decline seen in recent years.

Missoula Airport officials said the runways are clear for holiday travelers even after government shutdown concerns caused delays—staff received backpay and community support helped operations return to normal.

They expect the busy travel season to continue through Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks launched the Thank a Landowner portal — the new tool lets hunters thank private landowners for access to 6.8 million acres in Block Management and 700,000 acres in upland game bird enhancement.

Morgan Jacobsen said the portal is part of the It’s Up to Us campaign that promotes responsible hunting behavior.

Montana's Capitol Christmas tree was cut down Monday in Seeley Lake and will be brought to the Capitol rotunda; the Douglas fir from US Forest Service land under the Good Neighbor Authority will be lit on Dec.

1 at 5 p.m.—a Carroll College choir will sing carols to welcome the season.

After Montana State won against Montana last Saturday, players taunted fans while some supporters tossed water bottles and pizza crusts—sparking controversy over the postgame actions at Washington-Grizzly Stadium.

Memphis May Fire - Tour 2025

7-8:30 p.m. — The Wilma — General admission tickets available — Rock out with Memphis May Fire and support acts Rain City Drive, Nevertel, and If Not For Me.

Run for Beer - Ugly Sweater Run

5k Fun Run — Missoula Montana Airport — Entry fee applies — Enjoy a festive run wearing your ugliest sweater and celebrate with local craft beers and live music.

Missoula’s Cultural Heritage and the Clark Fork River – An Ever-Changing Landscape

In this presentation, guests will not only gain natural historical knowledge of the Clark Fork River, but also the innate partnership between cultural and natural heritage landscapes. This presentation will primarily examine the heritage of Missoula’s restricted communities between 1860 and 1940.

Missoula Holiday MADE Fair

9 AM – 5 PM — Adams Center, University of Montana — Entry fee required — Celebrate local arts and crafts at this vibrant holiday fair.

Sip & Sketch: Create a Phenology Wheel

Phenology is the study of change in the natural world – when flowers bloom and go to seed, when birds migrate, when the snow falls, and so much more. Taking a few minutes each day to observe and record these changes can add up to something truly beautiful over time, and there’s no better time than just before the beginning of a new year!

Hellgate Venture Network Holiday Party

5-7 p.m. — Goodworks Ventures — Complimentary beverages — Celebrate the season with great company and festive treats.