Wave of walleye: Yellowstone River bypass channel spreads fish out

Back in 2010 I remember this bypass was strongly opposed by groups like Defenders of Wildlife. As I recall their proposed alternative was to remove the irrigation diversion dam entirely, and instead fill the canal by using solar powered pumps. I remember it gathering national att

Changes coming to Helena Regional Airport in 2026

Helena Regional Airport plans to expand its outbound seat capacity to over 136,000 in 2026, aiming to increase flight options and destinations. The airport currently serves three airlines with five daily outbound flights to Seattle, Salt Lake, and Denver. Airport Director Jeff Wadekamper hopes to bring additional larger aircraft to Helena and expand service to major hubs like Minneapolis, Chicago, and Dallas. Wadekamper believes that increased seat availability and flights could lead to lower airfare costs over time.

High-speed pursuit ends in Helena, suspect in custody

A high-speed pursuit involving a stolen car ended on the Cedar Street overpass in Helena, with the suspect, Joseph Wayne Seymour, taken into custody. Seymour is accused of stealing a vehicle with a dog inside, attempted kidnapping, and leading officers on a chase with speeds over 100 miles per hour. The dog was found safe and returned to its owner.

Bobby Hauck retires as Montana head coach

Bobby Hauck, a Montana native and alum, announced his retirement as the University of Montana's head football coach, ending a 14-season tenure. He leaves as the winningest coach in Big Sky Conference history with 151 wins and eight conference titles. Hauck also led Montana to four national championship appearances and 20 FCS playoff wins. His teams excelled academically, maintaining high GPAs and producing numerous Academic All-Big Sky and All-American honorees. Montana wide receivers coach Bobby Kennedy has been named the new head coach.

Keeping it glassy: Helena approves $84K bid for glass crusher at Transfer Station

The crushed glass will provide a local cement plant with glass aggregate and sand. Previously it was being shipped to Salt Lake and made into fiberglass.

Photos: Skijoring the Big Rock races see hundreds of participants in Boulder

The Skijoring the Big Rock races at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds on Jan. 31, 2026, featured skiers and snowboarders being pulled by horseback riders through a challenging course.

M4.2 earthquake, north of Great Falls @12:41 PM, Jan. 29,

Montana economists discuss impacts of a potential future state sales tax

Montana economists are discussing the potential impacts of a future state sales tax, including its ability to offset rising property taxes and generate revenue from non-residents. However, concerns about its regressive nature and effectiveness in raising revenue from tourism are also being raised. The Montana Budget and Policy Center argues that a sales tax would be more regressive than the current tax system. Additionally, the possibility of a local-option sales tax is being considered, but there are concerns about its potential to distort local governments' decision-making.

New Helena TrainTracker shows when crossings are blocked

For those who don't want to click through the news site, the link for the TrainTracker website is: https://helenatraintracker.base44.app/Home

Elliston man dies in shooting, Powell County sheriff confirms

A 76-year-old Elliston man was shot and killed last week, according to the Powell County sheriff. No arrests have been made, and the sheriff has stated that there is no ongoing danger to the public, calling the shooting an isolated incident.

Company confirms East Helena scouted for possible $200M manufacturing facility

East Helena is being considered for a $200 million aerospace manufacturing plant by Washington-based Janicki Industries.

Opera Montana to premiere ‘A River Runs Through It’ as an Opera for book’s 50th anniversary

Opera Montana’s first full opera will premiere in September 2026 at the Ellen Theater in Bozeman, with additional performances in Missoula in October. A preview workshop will be held on May 20, 2026, at National Sawdust Theatre in Brooklyn, featuring John Maclean (son of the auth