Grizzly Populations Climb in Montana, But Bear Deaths Remain High

There's expected to be a lot of analysis and debate in the coming months, as agencies and groups look at the growing number of grizzly bear deaths in 2025. The numbers show a continuing trend over the past decade, some of which is driven by the growing population of bears and more conflicts with people.

In Montana alone, FWP reported 32 human-caused grizzly deaths on the state's new dashboard as the year came to a close. Most of those areas in Northwest Montana, the Rocky Mountain Front, what's known as the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem, and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which extends into Southwest Montana. That's up from 29 conflict deaths last year.

But the bigger debate centers around the growing deaths connected to Yellowstone, with 72 grizzly deaths.

     That matches last year's total but is about a third above the 10-year average.

RELATED: Grizzly Bear Deaths Spiking in Montana

Snowmobile clubs clear thousands of trees after storms

This week's snow has meant more work for snowmobile clubs in Western Montana, as trail crews continue to clear trails almost a month after December's big windstorm. Trail groomers have been forced to cut thousands of fallen trees from the trail systems, but most of the clubs have most of their trails reopened.

     It's not known how much the clubs will have to shoulder in extra maintenance costs.

Great Falls is coping with growth

Like most Montana cities, Great Falls is attempting to get ahead of growth, but developing a plan that looks 20-years into the future for the Electric City.

JD Knite has the story.

Data center discussion set

The growing demand for electricity to power data centers will come under scrutiny in Great Falls later today, with a panel discussion on how the trend will impact energy bills, water resources, and public budgets for services like firefighting and wastewater in the years to come.

The discussion comes as North Central Montana grapples with the economic potential of new proposals, but also concerns, even as Northwestern Energy tries to cope with the rising demand. Panelists will discuss recent developments and answer questions from 5:30 to 7:30 today at the Haute Hive Conference Room on Central Avenue.

NW Energy says don't get scammed

Speaking of Northwestern Energy, the utility is receiving widespread reports of scammers who are calling customers and threatening to cut off power unless immediate payments are made.

Northwestern says the utility will never demand instant payment or threaten with immediate cutoffs, noting customers will get multiple notices "well in advance" of any service interruption. The company advises customers to stay diligent and never share personal or financial info with anyone demanding immediate payment.

     You can learn more on the "scam alert" page on the Northwestern Energy website.

Know any more crazy snowplow names?

Last year's contest to name Missoula snowplows came up with some great winners... "The Big Leplowski", "Scoop Dogg", and my favorite, "Darth Blader". Now, Missoula Public Works has launched its 2nd annual Name Our Snowplows Contest. Entries are due by February 2nd. Then residents will have a chance to vote on the finalists.

The city is hoping to hear fun suggestions. No political comments, trademarks, or "inappropriate or offensive language". You can submit entries on the Engage Missoula website.