At the Epicenter: MGGA President Steve Sheffels Recalls Recent Great Falls Earthquake
Just Two weeks ago today, a magnitude 4.2 earthquake struck just northeast of Great Falls. While the U.S. Geological Survey reported no injuries or major damage from the 12:41 p.m. tremor, the experience isn’t something that will be forgotten any time soon for those living at the epicenter. Northern Ag Network’s Andy Schwab spoke with Montana Grain Growers Association President Steve Sheffels, the owner of the property where the quake was centered.
Steve Sheffels
Downing Applauds Commerce Decision on Russian Palladium Dumping
Montana Congressman Troy Downing is praising a preliminary decision by the U.S. Department of Commerce, which found Russia has been dumping palladium into the U.S. market. Downing says the move confirms the cause of layoffs for 700 Stillwater Mine workers and vows to keep pushing his ‘Stop Russian Market Manipulation Act.’
Butte Jury Awards $5.5M in Negligence Suit Against Montana Child Protection Agency
A Butte jury has delivered a stinging rebuke to Montana’s child protection agency, awarding five-point-five million dollars to a woman raped as a twelve-year-old while under state monitoring. Attorneys for the victim argued the Child and Family Services Division ignored mandatory reporting laws for six months, despite knowing the girl was pregnant. This marks the second multi-million dollar negligence verdict against the D-P-H-H-S in less than a year. The state has not yet confirmed if it will appeal.
Billings Implements AI Safeguards as Council Calls for Greater Tech Oversight
The City of Billings is tightening its grip on artificial intelligence. City officials have implemented a new AI security policy to protect sensitive data while allowing staff to use tools like ChatGPT for basic tasks. This comes as Councilman Andrew Lindley pushes for a new Technology Advisory Commission to provide expert oversight on cybersecurity and future tech governance.
Gov. Gianforte Urges Montanans to Claim Lower 2026 Property Tax Rate by March 1
Montana homeowners have until March first to apply for the 2026 Homestead Reduced Rate. Governor Gianforte says the lower rate aims to provide permanent, meaningful property tax relief, with most homeowners already seeing savings last year. Homeowners can verify enrollment or apply now at Homestead dot M T dot gov.
Zinke Shuts Missoula Field Office While Search for New Location Continues
Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke is officially on the hunt for a new Missoula field office. Staff confirmed the Broadway Street location closed after its lease expired in late 2025. While a search for a new space is underway, constituents needing federal assistance are being directed to Zinke’s Kalispell office or his official website.
Yellowstone to Open Fishing Season Early Due to Rising River Temperatures
Anglers heading to Yellowstone National Park can cast their lines nearly a month ahead of schedule this year. Officials are moving the season opener to May 1st for the Madison, Firehole, and Gibbon rivers. The shift aims to give fly-fishers more time on the water before extreme summer heat triggers mandatory conservation closures later in the summer.
FWP: Prairie Dogs Key to Ecosystem Health and Ferret Recovery
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is highlighting the critical role of black-tailed prairie dogs as “ecosystem engineers.” Biologists say these rodents create vital habitats for other species and are the only way to successfully reintroduce the endangered black-footed ferret to the landscape. To support recovery, the state is now partnering with landowners on ten-year conservation contracts to preserve these essential prairie colonies.
