As 2025 wraps up, the air is thick with reflections on our journey in Montana’s evolving landscape. Reporting for Montana Free Press covers a mix of water, wildlife, energy, climate, and land management, making each day unpredictable. This year, with a session in the Montana Legislature and shifts in federal policies, stood out as particularly hectic.
The Montana Legislature took on familiar issues like exempt wells while also dealing with fresh developments. A significant case, Held v. Montana, affirmed that young residents have a right to a stable climate. This ruling has sparked new lawsuits. Recently, some plaintiffs protested changes in environmental laws, claiming they lack adequate protection for the climate. Meanwhile, other groups voiced concerns over a missed opportunity to strengthen water policies, putting senior water users and ecosystems at risk.
This year also saw debates over water rights, crucial for preserving blue-ribbon fisheries in light of exceptionally low stream flows. The state even took action against a golf course project near Shields River for water rights violations — an unusual move underscoring the intensity of these issues.
On a broader scale, the Public Service Commission, which oversees utilities, handled several contentious matters, particularly affecting two-thirds of Montanans who rely on NorthWestern Energy. Amid these discussions, major shifts occurred at the federal level under President Donald Trump, rolling back previous regulations on water quality and energy.
Montana’s natural resources faced further scrutiny with decisions like the controversial land swap in Crazy Mountains and the loosening of protections for wildlife under the ‘roadless rule’. These actions have raised alarms among conservationists who fear losing critical habitats.
Looking ahead to 2026, three pivotal topics are on the horizon. Data centers are increasingly becoming central to discussions about energy and water consumption. Anticipated changes from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regarding grizzly bear protections may shift land management policies. Lastly, climate anomalies, like the recent warm spells and intense rainfall, hint at more unpredictable weather patterns, prompting a collective concern about environmental stability.
As we navigate through these changes, the need for balanced policies that consider environmental complexity and community rights remains paramount. These developments are not just local; they resonate with broader trends across the country, highlighting the urgency of sustainable practices in the face of climate change.
For those interested in the wider implications of these policies, the Montana League of Cities and Towns offers resources and advocacy focused on local governance and environmental justice.
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