Zootown Lowdown
Latest News
|Zootown Lowdown
Latest News

Subscribe

"Water Challenges, Robotic Bear, Grizzlies Rivalry, Best Restaurant & More in Montana!"

|
Zootown Lowdown

Zootown Lowdown

Archives

"Water Challenges, Robotic Bear, Grizzlies Rivalry, Best Restaurant & More in Montana!"

"Water Challenges, Robotic Bear, Grizzlies Rivalry, Best Restaurant & More in Montana!"
Discover Montana's water challenges, robotic bears, fierce rivalries, top restaurants, and more in our latest newsletter!

Zootown Lowdown Staff

Sep 26, 2025

Trivia Question❓

In Missoula, Montana, what popular annual event features the "Running of the Beef" and attracts over 10,000 participants each year?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Montana's Premier Commercial Real Estate Brokerage

The article discusses the challenges facing Montana's water resources, including drought conditions, reduced streamflows, and water shortages.

These challenges are exacerbated by high demand for water resources for agriculture, industry, and recreation.

The article highlights the importance of water conservation efforts and efficient water management strategies in addressing these issues.

Additionally, the article emphasizes the need for collaboration between government agencies, stakeholders, and communities to sustainably manage Montana's water resources for the future.

Read More...

In Montana's rugged wilderness, a innovative program is equipping residents with essential skills for safe wildlife encounters.

 

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) deploys a robotic bear that simulates grizzly charges at over 30 mph, teaching effective bear spray use.

 

Participants practice deploying inert spray low and forward to deter an oncoming bear threat, building crucial muscle memory.

 

Experts highlight respecting bear behaviors, avoiding surprises near food sources like carcasses, especially during fall hyperphagia.

 

With grizzly populations expanding, these hands-on sessions reduce human-bear conflicts through education and myth-busting.

 

Recent non-fatal incidents underscore the need for awareness, as bears typically avoid humans unless provoked.

 

For 2025 Bear Aware events, attend the presentation at Montana Tap House in Whitefish on September 17 from 6-8 p.m.

 

FWP hosted a training at Travelers' Rest State Park in Lolo on September 20, featuring robo-bear demos.

 

A workshop is planned in Great Falls; check FWP's site for details.

 

Additional events continue across western Montana, promoting safety in bear country.


Read More...
Interesting Facts
  • Missoula is home to the largest collection of dinosaur remains in the state of Montana, with over 30 species represented.


  • The city's carousel, housed in Caras Park, is one of the oldest operating wooden carousels in the United States.


  • Missoula was once the filming location for the hit TV show "Twin Peaks" and many scenes were shot in and around the city.


The Intense Rivalry: Montana Grizzlies vs. University of Idaho Battle for the Little Brown Stein Trophy.
The Montana Grizzlies football rivalry with the University of Idaho is a highly anticipated annual game played under the lights for the Little Brown Stein trophy.

The rivalry stems from a long history of intense matchups between the two teams.

The game is known for its electrifying atmosphere and competitive spirit as both teams battle it out for bragging rights and possession of the coveted trophy.

The night game adds to the excitement and drama of the showdown, making it a must-see event for fans of both schools.
Montana's best traditional restaurant has been revealed as Bayern Brewery's Edelweiss Bistro, according to Reader's Digest.

The restaurant offers authentic Bavarian food, including homemade pretzels and schnitzels, along with imported pickles and mustards from Germany.

With 25% of Montanans reporting German ancestry, it's no surprise that a German restaurant topped the list.

In addition to their award-winning brews, Bayern Brewing is gaining recognition for its traditional German cuisine.

This Oktoberfest season, enjoy some tasty German food and beverages at Edelweiss Bistro and raise a toast to the season.
Q/A Questions

Q: How far is Missoula, MT from Glacier National Park?

A: About 140 miles, or approximately a 2.5-hour drive.


Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Missoula, MT?

A: Some popular outdoor activities in Missoula include hiking, fishing, kayaking, and mountain biking.


Q: What is the weather like in Missoula, MT during the summer months?

A: During the summer, Missoula typically experiences warm and dry weather with temperatures ranging from the 70s to 90s Fahrenheit.

The Montanans At Work Tour has kicked off in Missoula, Helena, and Butte, with Governor Greg Gianforte leading the initiative to highlight the state's economic growth and job opportunities.

The tour focuses on supporting businesses, creating jobs, and fostering economic development in Montana.

Local leaders and community members are encouraged to participate and engage in discussions about workforce trends, career training, and entrepreneurship.

Overall, the tour aims to showcase the state's robust economy and potential for continued growth in various industries.

Read More...
Missoula, Montana is known for its rugged landscape and resemblance to the popular TV show Yellowstone, as parts of the show are filmed in the area.

In addition to its scenic beauty, Missoula boasts a variety of restaurants showcasing beef as a star on their menus.

From Harwood House at Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort to La Porte Rouge, Lolo Creek Steakhouse, Finn, Seasons Restaurant, The Camino, and Black Coffee Roasting Company, there are plenty of dining options to explore in Missoula. At Harwood House, guests can enjoy a soak in the outdoor hot springs before indulging in dishes like Bison Carpaccio and Wild Game Meatloaf.

La Porte Rouge offers French cuisine like Asparagus and watercress quiche and Duck Confit.

Lolo Creek Steakhouse serves up options like Steak and Alaskan King Crab, while Finn provides a picturesque setting for enjoying dishes like Avocado Toast. Seasons Restaurant stands out for its rustic charm and unique offerings like Rattlesnake and Rabbit Sausage and Game Meat Meatloaf.

The Camino offers authentic Mexican cuisine with dishes like Carne Asada tacos.

For a quick breakfast, visitors can stop by Black Coffee Roasting Company for Avocado Toast and locally roasted coffee. Whether you're looking for fine dining or a quick bite to eat, Missoula has something to satisfy every craving.

So, if you find yourself in Big Sky country, be sure to check out these top restaurants in Missoula for a delicious dining experience.
Missoula's City Council is considering purchasing a 2.5-acre parcel next to the Bitterroot Branch Trail as an addition to the Southgate Crossing property acquired in late 2024.

The Missoula Redevelopment Agency's board recommended the acquisition with an asking price of $1.3 million.

If approved, it would be included in the overall redevelopment plan for the 13-acre Southgate Mall area.

The goal is to create a mix of housing and commercial spaces, with potential for street grid expansion.

The current owner, Tollefson Properties LLC, is offering the parcel at a lower price per square foot than the property to the south.

Be Bear Aware

Montana is Bear Country...

"Missoula Art Museum to Showcase Indigenous Art in Downtown Installation"
The article discusses the upcoming installation of indigenous art in downtown Missoula, Montana.

The public art project, organized by the Missoula Art Museum and the City of Missoula Public Art Committee, aims to showcase diverse indigenous cultures and perspectives through various forms of artistic expression.

The installation will feature pieces created by indigenous artists from the region, and will be displayed in prominent locations throughout downtown Missoula.

The project highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating indigenous art and culture in the community.
💡 Answer to Trivia Question:
The Missoula Marathon.
Zootown Lowdown

© 2025 Zootown Lowdown.

Zootown Lowdown brings Missoula to your inbox with a friendly mix of local news, stories, and happenings. From mountain trails to downtown coffee shops, we spotlight the people, places, and events that make Missoula such a special place to live. Whether you’re a lifelong local or a new neighbor, this newsletter keeps you plugged into the heart of Zootown.

© 2025 Zootown Lowdown.