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For nearly 20 years, the debate over grizzly bear management in the Northern Rockies has persisted among wildlife managers, politicians, and advocates. Central to this discussion is whether states or the federal government should manage grizzlies. A recent press conference north of Yellowstone, featuring Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho governors alongside Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, indicated major developments.
Grizzlies in the contiguous U.S. primarily inhabit areas around Yellowstone and Glacier national parks, with smaller subpopulations elsewhere. Discussions have focused on whether to “delist” grizzlies from the Endangered Species Act, where they’ve been listed as “threatened” since 1975 despite population growth. Attempts to delist in 2007 and 2017 were blocked by federal court.
At the press conference, officials introduced a “Return Management to the States” initiative. Although they remain on the endangered list, Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho will gain more management authority. Notably, Montana will not introduce a hunt, a contentious point in delisting debates.
The proposal, published the next day, featured a “tiered” management approach but left many questions among wildlife advocates. Agreements between states, tribes, and the federal government remain unpublished. Furthermore, the rule allows more incidents of accidental grizzly trapping.
Under the new rule, state wildlife managers will execute “management actions” without prior federal approval. Proponents claim this change will streamline current practices without significantly altering on-the-ground realities.
In the Biden administration’s final days, a rule was released extending grizzly protections. This week’s rule modifies a section of the Endangered Species Act to create species-specific management strategies.
“I think of this as a dress rehearsal for delisting,” stated Christy Clark, FWP Director. However, some conservation groups express concern over insufficient federal oversight potentially leading to increased grizzly mortality.
Public comment on the proposal is open through August 17, with the final rule to follow.
Following the Law ⚖️
Brad Molnar, suspended from Montana’s utility board by Gov. Greg Gianforte for workplace misconduct, is contesting the decision. Molnar argues his suspension was based on unverified claims he could not challenge. He highlights his right to political speech.
Jennifer Fielder, vice president of the PSC, expressed concern that Molnar’s presence threatened to reverse progress at the commission following years of strife. Fielder and Gianforte criticized Molnar for not acknowledging his actions.
Molnar warns of imminent replacement appointments, affecting a $3.6 billion NorthWestern Energy merger. Climate group 350 Montana and the Montana Farmers Union have intervened, emphasizing the need for Molnar’s input in merger discussions to ensure regulatory stability.
NorthWestern Energy indicated state law outlines procedures for commissioner absences, ensuring continuity in the PSC.
By the Numbers 🔢
A Forsyth weather station reported 118 degrees during a recent heat wave, potentially breaking Montana’s temperature record. However, the National Weather Service (NWS) considers it inaccurate due to historically high readings.
The NWS event summary adjusted Forsyth’s high to 112 degrees, with 116 degrees near Ingomar marking the highest reliable temperature. This reading set a record for the station and ranks as Montana’s third-highest recorded temperature.
Verbatim 💬
“As a university, we have to grapple with what does it mean for someone to be educated in the age of AI. And with our liberal arts and humanities history and core, I actually believe that we’re real well-positioned to answer that question. I think the liberal arts and humanities are going to be more important than ever in the age of AI. AI can answer questions. AI doesn’t have judgment, it doesn’t have discernment, all of the things that the humanities and liberal arts teach us. So I really do believe that what has been our historical strength and identity is really relevant today in a way that I think will become more apparent over time.”
— University of Montana President Jeremiah Shinn during an interview with Montana Free Press.
For the Record 📣
Federal trade officials are reviewing the impact of lamb imports on U.S. ranchers, responding to a request from domestic producers including those in Montana, hosting about 180,000 sheep.
American Sheep Industry President Ben Lehfeldt highlighted that domestic ranchers face higher costs than their Australian and New Zealand counterparts, struggling to compete due to labor shortages and other challenges.
Increased lamb imports have dominated U.S. grocery shelves, accounting for three-fourths of consumption. Lehfeldt noted that U.S. ranchers face challenges absent for overseas producers.
The U.S. International Trade Commission will investigate, potentially recommending tariffs if imports harm U.S. producers. Lehfeldt emphasized the need for a competitive, fair market for American producers.
Snapshot 📸
Sen. Jason Ellsworth, R-Hamilton, during his trial on July 14, 2026, at the Lewis and Clark County Courthouse. Victoria Eavis has been covering the trial with more insights available on Instagram.
News of the News 📰
Montana Free Press is expanding, enhancing local reporting on Montana’s people and policies. New additions to the newsroom include environmental reporters Ellis Juhlin and Nick Mott, and Phoebe Tollefson for Billings coverage.
Ellis, formerly with Montana Public Radio, will focus on climate reporting, while Nick, a seasoned freelancer, will cover wildlife and environmental issues. Phoebe, a Billings native, joins to strengthen local stories.
Highlights ☀️
In other news —
• Politics reporter Tom Lutey analyzes Montana’s latest campaign finance reports. Notably, most Democrats trail, except Sam Forstag.
• Montana’s aging demographics are shifting. Jacob Olness reveals an increase of 36,000 seniors in the past five years, while children numbers decline.
• Amanda Eggert’s report on Brad Molnar’s PSC suspension was the most-read story on the MTFP website last week.
On Our Radar
Nick E. — J.D. Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye” turns 75 this week. Despite debates over its appropriateness, its insights on innocence and authority resonate. Discover its impact here.
Stephanie — On hot days, I make panzanella. This recipe combines ripe tomatoes and toasted bread into a refreshing dish.
Zeke — Planning to watch “The Odyssey.” Rotten Tomatoes and the Associated Press recommend Nolan’s latest.
Ellis — My mom and I are embarking on her first backpacking trip. We prepared with REI’s workout regimen. It’s time to see the results!
Brad — I’m also watching “The Odyssey.” Prepped by listening to rock classics inspired by Homer’s epic. Suggestions are welcome!
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Lowdown is edited by Nick Ehli.
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