In 2023 the Montana Legislature designated the first week of April as “Soil Health Week.” Soils are fundamental for all life on Earth. Healthy soils give us clean air and water, productive grazing lands, diverse wildlife, and charming landscapes. Soil…
The last week in February marks National Invasive Species Awareness Week, a week that highlights the non-native flora and fauna that wreak havoc on our ecosystems. The Montana Invasive Species Council (MISC) published a list of nine ‘invasive species to…
As the valley is blanketed with snow, many things look different. The river turns icy, the geese populate spring waters, and steam rises from houses and businesses alike, but one thing that remains constant is the presence of evergreens along…
As the west faces growing drought conditions, producers are finding innovative ways to utilize livestock as means to conserve water. Montana State University was recently highlighted in a Time magazine article titled, “Farmers Are Using Wool To Save Water in…
As we head into the New Year, we would like to welcome a (somewhat) new member of our conservation community in Madison County, Clayton Marxer! To better introduce himself to everyone, Clayton shared with us this short bio, describing his…
The Madison Valley is home to rolling hills scattered with agricultural land, surrounded by mountains that often glean snowy peaks. Streams run through the landscape like veins, providing life to crucial wildlife and fields alike. Our natural resources hold a…
The Big Sky Owner's Association recently published a best practices guidebook for residents in the Big Sky Area. Although somewhat tailored to properties in Big Sky, many of the sustainability oriented design and development practices/requirements can be applicable for the…
As the mornings get chilly, and stands of aspens begin to glean yellow leaves, I am reminded that fall is just around the corner for the Madison Valley. This a wonderful time of year to be hiking and foraging for…
A heat wave has hit Southwest Montana in recent weeks. With near-record high temperatures blanketing our Valley, it is essential to find ways to keep cool. While we can beat the heat by enjoying recreational fun at the streams or…
As the streams calm from the snowmelt-initiated spring runoff, some private well owners may have noticed changes in their water. The high flows that sometimes result in flooding or other infrastructure damage can carry contaminants from surface waters into our…