Our Montana

10/01/2026

A fascinating look at an important part of Crow history.

Aaron Brien shares the Crow perspective on the Battle of Arrow Creek and discusses Crow culture, history, and the events surrounding the battle, when Crow warriors defended their homeland against a large alliance of Sioux, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors.

Thank you to Aaron for sharing this history and helping keep these important stories alive.

Watch the presentation here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pk8aCC3ir6k&t=05s

This video shows Aaron Brien, Cultural Office for the Crow Tribe of...

09/22/2026

Climate Change on the Yellowstone
We recently had the opportunity to hear from Kathy Whitlock, a climate scientist and professor at Montana State University, about climate change and the Yellowstone region.

Kathy shared her knowledge and perspective with the group, including what we are seeing in the Yellowstone landscape and what the science can tell us about changes over time.

Mike Penfold recorded her presentation so that we could share it with others who may be interested. The recording is informal, but the information is well worth a listen.

Watch Kathy’s presentation here:

Kathy Whitlock (climate scientist) discusses the impact of climate ...

09/17/2026

We’re excited to share that Our Montana’s Ralph Saunders will be presenting at the 2026 Montana History Conference in Billings!

Ralph’s presentation, **“The Bozeman Trail in Montana,”** will be part of the *Along the Trail* program on **Friday, September 25, from 3:30–4:45 p.m. at the DoubleTree Hotel in Billings.**

Ralph will share some of the research and methodology he used to map the actual location of the Bozeman Trail, along with tips for those interested in exploring the trail today.

Copies of Ralph’s book, *The Bozeman Trail in Montana: A Trail Description and Touring Guide*, will also be available for purchase at the conference through the Montana Historical Society’s pop-up gift shop. Proceeds from the book support the work of Our Montana.

There are lots of wonderful programs planned throughout the conference. You can see the full schedule and learn more here:

[View the 2026 Montana History Conference brochure](https://mhs.mt.gov/education/MHC26-Program-final-pages-low-res-no-form.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

08/10/2026

💧 **Learn More About Our Changing Rivers**

The community is invited to learn about the newly completed **Rock Creek and Clarks Fork Yellowstone Channel Migration Zone (CMZ) Study and Map**.

These upcoming public presentations will explore how rivers naturally move and change over time and how the new CMZ map can be used to better understand and evaluate river-related risks along **Rock Creek and the Clarks Fork Yellowstone between Red Lodge and Laurel**.

Three opportunities are available to attend, listen, and learn. See the attached flyer for dates, times, and locations.

Presented by the Clarks Fork Yellowstone Partnership.

07/29/2026

07/29/2026

📺 **New Our Montana Interview: Yellowstone County Ballot Initiative**

A new episode of *Our Montana* is now available on Community 7 TV.

In this interview, **Mike Penfold** visits with **Kassi Solberg**, advocate for the Yellowstone County Ballot Initiative, to discuss the proposed initiative regarding data centers in Yellowstone County.

Kassi shares why community members are gathering signatures, the concerns that have been raised about potential impacts on water resources and energy demand, and how residents can learn more about the initiative.

🎙️ *Recorded July 23, 2026*

🎥 Watch the interview here:
https://cloud.castus.tv/vod/comm7tv/video/6a62718fe937efeb1d8fbaca?page=PLAYLIST

At *Our Montana*, we're committed to sharing conversations that encourage informed community dialogue on issues affecting Montana and its future.

07/23/2026

📍 Celebrate Montana History at Pompeys Pillar!

Looking for something to do this Saturday?

Join the annual Signature Day celebration at Pompeys Pillar National Monument on Saturday, July 25!

This family-friendly event commemorates William Clark's historic signature at Pompeys Pillar and offers a wonderful day of history, culture, and community.

Enjoy:
🦅 Audubon bird presentation & bird walk
🐾 Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks presentation
🤠 Mountain Men demonstrations
🪶 Crow Tribe Pow Wow performances
🍲 Traditional cooking demonstration
🎨 Kids activities & craft vendors
🌭 Food truck

Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking for a fun day out with family and friends, Signature Day is a wonderful way to experience one of Montana's most iconic historic landmarks.

📅 Saturday, July 25, 2026

For more information, contact the Friends of Pompeys Pillar at [email protected] or call (406) 969-5380.

We hope to see you there!

07/20/2026

🐎 **Saving Montana's Wild Heritage: The Pryor Mountain Horses**

The wild horses of the Pryor Mountains have called Montana home for generations, adapting to one of the most rugged and beautiful landscapes in the West. Their story is one of resilience, history, and the enduring spirit of the American West.

In this new episode of **Our Montana** on Community 7 TV, naturalist **Phyllis Caha Wray** joins **Mike Penfold** to share her deep knowledge and passion for these remarkable horses. Discover what makes the Pryor Mountain herd so unique, why they matter, and the ongoing efforts to ensure their future.

🎙️ *Recorded July 17, 2026*

🎥 Watch the full interview here:
https://cloud.castus.tv/vod/comm7tv/video/6a5a93e3619687c65f718d83?page=PLAYLIST

What do the Pryor Mountain horses mean to you? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

06/03/2026

🐦🌾 Montana Audubon Isn't Just for the Birds! 🌾🐦

Did you know that Montana Audubon works closely with ranchers, landowners, and communities across the state to support conservation, healthy working lands, and sound public policy?

Join host Mike Penfold for a fascinating conversation with **Larry Berrin, Executive Director of Montana Audubon**, and **Peter Dudley, Conservation Ranching & Policy Specialist**, as they discuss the organization's important work and the partnerships helping to conserve Montana's landscapes for future generations.

🎥 Watch the interview here:
https://cloud.castus.tv/vod/comm7tv/video/6a19bd191a50cb0002980cc8?page=HOME

This episode was recorded on May 27, 2026.

To learn more about Our Montana and our Community 7 interviews, visit:
🌐 www.ourmontana.org

Montana Audubon: https://center.mtaudubon.org/

About Our Montana Our Montana is a nonprofit organization dedicated to conservation, history, and responsible recreation across the state. For...