Laura Hatch

What was once the site of more than a century of industrial activity is now an outdoor classroom for students in Helena, Montana. The Tracks Trail at Prickly Pear Park is designed to get kids thinking scientifically while learning why open spaces matter to wildlife. Comments from Konner Goetsch, education program assistant and Big Sky Watershed Corps member, Prickly Pear Land Trust; and Christa Schoenfeld, science teacher, East Helena High School.

Crumbling roads, damaged trails, and aging campgrounds are among the maintenance needs facing Montana's public lands. State and congressional leaders say restoring a federal fund could help with the backlog before repairs get even more expensive. Comments from State Rep. Lyn Bennett, R-Columbia Falls; and Rebecca Knuffke, senior U.S. conservation officer, The Pew Charitable Trusts.

The Blackfoot River helped inspire one of Montana’s best-known books. Now, supporters of a 25-year land conservation effort called the "A River Runs Through It" plan hope Congress will give the river and the surrounding area new protections and a lasting legacy. Comments from John Maclean, author and son of "A River Runs Through It" author Norman Maclean, and Chris Eyer, owner, Heart W Outfitters.

Staffing cuts at the U.S. Forest Service and a push to repeal the Roadless Rule are raising concerns among some Trump supporters in conservative Montana.

From a crisis helpline call to a team showing up at your door, Montana communities are expanding how they respond to mental health crises. New data show Crisis Now networks are taking pressure off law enforcement officers and emergency rooms.

Montana's Department of Public Health and Human Services hasn't said much since the state began enforcing new Medicaid work requirements on July 1. Medicaid advocates say many enrollees are confused about the new rules and are concerned about the state's ability to verify compliance.

Politics may divide voters on many issues, but a conservation advocate says public lands are different. He also believes protecting access to public lands should be a priority when voters head to the polls this November.

Tick bites are more commonplace this year, and Montana health experts remind you to be on the lookout.

Montanans who buy health insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplace could face another year of 10-20% premium increases in 2027.

A new report argues the bipartisan push to build more apartments could address two major challenges at once: the housing shortage and climate change.