MSU Extension

09/08/2026

Composting is a way to recycle organic matter into fertilizer that enriches soil for garden plants. But composting in dry climates can be hard. In the next Cultivating Healthy Plants webinar, learn three composting methods and how to adapt them for the West.

When: Sept. 10 at noon

Learn more about the webinar:
https://www.montana.edu/calendar/events/58835

09/06/2026

Arborists, foresters, and tree enthusiasts in Montana have no doubt heard of the looming insect threat found in neighboring states. Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis, is an iridescent green beetle whose beautiful appearance belies its potential for widespread destruction of its host, true ash (Fraxinus spp.) trees. Tragically, EAB has killed millions of ash trees across the eastern and midwestern U.S. over the past two decades.

Learn about EAB and the Montana readiness and response plan:

EAB, emerald ash borer, detecting an impending threat, ash trees, invasive pest

09/03/2026

An estimated 75 to 90 percent of primary care visits are related to stress-related problems. Chronic stress can negatively affect physical and mental health by weakening the immune system, increasing the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, impairing digestion, and contributing to anxiety and depression. Mindfulness is a proven stress-management strategy that can help reduce health risks. Our new MontGuide explains how to build a daily mindfulness practice and its benefits.

Read the MontGuide:

By Michelle Grocke-Dewey, PhD, Associate Professor and MSU Extension Health and Wellness Specialist; Katey T. Franklin, PhD, Assistant Professor, MSU Department of Counseling; Emma Morano, MSU Community Health Undergraduate Research Assistant; Meghan McGinley, MSU Community Health Undergraduate Rese...

09/01/2026

Learn about the Montana Indian Equity Fund Small Business grant, determine whether the program fits your business, and be better prepared to submit a strong application during the next Small Business Webinar on Sept. 3 from 11 a.m. to noon. The webinar will cover how grant funds can support activities such as purchasing equipment, developing new products or services, and other business needs.

To register and for more information:
https://www.montana.edu/extensionecon/smallbusiness/

08/31/2026

While parenting can be very rewarding, it also has its challenges. Navigating the overwhelming number of resources and advice available to parents can be particularly hard, leaving parents wondering how to determine the right approach or find reliable answers. The good news is that there are techniques to help identify research-based resources and strategies, based on the latest scholarly findings, whether you’re scrolling through social media, searching online, or reading your favorite magazine.

parenting, family and consumer sciences, online resources

08/30/2026

Most adults and teenagers in the U.S. own smartphones and use social media. These technologies can promote connection, entertainment, and learning, and many people relied on them to maintain relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as smartphones and social media have become part of daily life, concerns have also grown about the effects that this technology has on individuals’ well-being.

Learn tips on how to keep technology use within healthy levels:

smartphones, social media, healthy technology use,

08/27/2026

A new issue of Lives & Landscapes magazine is online. Learn about public art to support communities, detecting Emerald Ash Borer, the impact of Winnett ACES, balancing smartphone use in teenagers, recycling agricultural plastics, and parenting with confidence.

Lives and Landscapes is the magazine of Montana State University Extension. Providing free, informative and approachable information to the public is part of MSU Extension's efforts to improve lives and communities across Montana.

08/24/2026

How are the branches of local government similar to and different from the national government? Explore the roles and responsibilities of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of local government:

Explore the roles and responsibilities of the legislative, executiv...

08/22/2026

Grizzly bears are returning to parts of the American West where they have not lived for generations. A new season of “Working Wild University,” a podcast co-hosted by Montana State University Extension wildlife specialist Jared Beaver, examines what recovery means for the bears – and for the people sharing the landscape with them.

Learn more about the new season:
https://www.montana.edu/news/25494/new-season-of-working-wild-university-explores-grizzly-bear-recovery-in-the-west

08/17/2026

Learn how Montana county governments are structured and the services they provide to residents through a new video from MSU Extension’s Local Government Center:

Learn how Montana county governments are structured and the service...