Yellowstone Tourism & Conservation: Montana’s Motor Vehicle Division is rolling out a new specialty license plate featuring a bison and Grand Prismatic Spring, with proceeds supporting Yellowstone Forever projects like wildlife work, youth programs, and trail restoration. Bear Safety in Towns: FWP says dry conditions and limited mountain food are pushing bears and mountain lions closer to Montana communities, urging pet owners to remove attractants like trash and birdfeeders and to stay extra alert at dusk and dawn. Bear Attacks (Augusta area): Two separate reports describe hunters injured in bear attacks near Augusta (Elk Creek and Haystack Butte), with FWP investigating and warning hunters to pack meat quickly and carry bear spray. Wildlife Management (Lincoln grizzlies): Two young adult grizzlies were euthanized after a 10-day conflict streak near Lincoln, as the bears repeatedly targeted unsecured grain, garbage, and chicken coops. DEQ Regulation Update: Montana DEQ is proposing to change how it regulates human and animal crematoriums, replacing an air permit requirement with a new registration program, with a public hearing set for Sept. 29. Habitat & Access (Northwest Montana): A $29.3 million conservation easement protects about 20,000 acres of working timberland and secures year-round public hunting and fishing access, including streams, riparian habitat, and wetlands. FWP Hunting Forecasts: FWP released its 2026 big game and upland bird forecasts for southeast Montana, noting tougher upland conditions and a new nonresident season delay rule on private lands. Wolf Policy Watch: Federal actions to weaken Endangered Species Act protections for wolves are moving forward, with Montana and other states watching what changes could mean for hunting and management.