This week on News Now, Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman breaks down the biggest headlines across northwest Montana - from public land debates and legal developments to environmental challenges and major event announcements.

The Flathead National Forest is weighing more than 1,000 public comments on its draft river management plan for the Flathead River system, as outfitters, conservation groups and recreation advocates debate how to balance access with protecting critical fish habitat.

In the Mission Valley, a fourth-generation ranch is battling an explosion of invasive tumble mustard weeds, raising concerns about wildfire risk, public safety and the challenges of enforcement after land annexation.

A federal lawsuit against the city of Whitefish alleging racial profiling during a traffic stop appears headed toward a settlement, following a judge’s decision to dismiss several key claims while leaving others unresolved.

Plus, the first signs of summer are arriving as roads begin opening in Glacier National Park, a new osprey monitoring effort highlights wildlife conservation in the Flathead Valley, and the Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo announces a major headliner for 2026.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman is covering the biggest stories shaping northwest Montana - from Glacier National Park openings and major conservation efforts to a complex fraud case and community development projects.

Glacier National Park is beginning to open key roads for the season, including access along Going-to-the-Sun Road, as crews continue snow removal and infrastructure work ahead of peak summer travel.

A major land conservation milestone has been reached in the Flathead Valley, with more than 1,100 acres secured near Herron Park to create a continuous public recreation corridor between Foys Lake and Blacktail Mountain, preserving access and protecting the landscape from development.

In Whitefish, agencies are tackling persistent flooding caused by beaver activity using innovative, nonlethal solutions designed to balance infrastructure needs with ecological benefits. Plus, a new citizen science effort is tracking osprey populations across the region, giving researchers valuable insight into nesting habits and ongoing environmental threats.

In the Mission Valley, a long-awaited indoor ice arena project gets a major boost from a multimillion-dollar state tourism grant, bringing the community closer to a new hub for recreation and economic activity.

And in Lincoln County, prosecutors are pursuing a complex case involving an alleged $1.3 million scheme targeting a vulnerable adult in a multi-state investigation involving fraud, property transfers, and financial exploitation.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.

This week on News Now from the Daily Inter Lake, reporter Taylor Inman is covering the biggest stories across northwest Montana—from a devastating crash case and political controversy to a historic NASA mission with local roots.

A Flathead County judge has increased bail to $500,000 for a man accused of stealing a vehicle, leading police on a high-speed chase, and crashing into a Columbia Falls teen, leaving her with severe, life-threatening injuries. The emotional courtroom hearing drew a packed crowd in support of the victim and raised concerns about public safety.

In Kalispell, a heated 5-4 vote on the city’s new land use plan is sparking debate over conflict of interest, government transparency, and the future of development. The decision could shape how growth is managed across the Flathead Valley for years to come.

Meanwhile, two Flathead Valley aerospace engineers played key roles in NASA’s Artemis II mission, marking the first crewed journey toward the moon in more than 50 years. The milestone highlights local talent contributing to one of the most ambitious space exploration efforts in decades.

Plus, Montana history organizations receive major grant funding to preserve cultural heritage in the Mission Valley, supporting education, archival work, and community storytelling projects.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.

This week on News Now from the Daily Inter Lake, reporter Taylor Inman breaks down the biggest headlines shaping northwest Montana—from a troubling criminal case returning to court, to a brewing legal battle over a major U.S. Forest Service project, and a large-scale housing development proposal in Columbia Falls.

A 2019 school bus crash case near Whitefish is back in the spotlight as the driver faces potential revocation of her deferred sentence. Meanwhile, two environmental groups are preparing to sue the U.S. Forest Service over a controversial 7,700-acre forestry project near Hungry Horse Reservoir, raising concerns about impacts to grizzly bears and threatened bull trout.

Plus, a major 421-unit housing development is moving forward in Columbia Falls, a Libby man receives a 12-year prison sentence in a road rage case, and state officials outline a plan to restore native westslope cutthroat trout in the Flathead watershed.

We also cover ongoing uncertainty surrounding Bigfork’s Sliter Memorial Park lease and what it could mean for one of the community’s most important public spaces.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.

Spring has arrived in Northwest Montana and with it comes a packed calendar of can’t-miss events across the Flathead Valley. From live music and theater performances to film festivals, cultural showcases, and community fundraisers, this Local Events episode of News Now brings you everything happening in Kalispell, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, and beyond.

Discover standout experiences like the immersive “Cazador del Oso” gala, high-energy performances at the Wachholz College Center, and major live shows including Paul Cauthen’s debut at Majestic Valley Arena. Whether you're looking for family-friendly events, educational talks, or unforgettable nights out, this monthly guide helps you plan your schedule and stay connected to the heartbeat of Northwest Montana.

Discover more about all the happenings mentioned in the episode at dailyinterlake.com/events. Lock in tickets before they sell out! Check out flatheadtickets.com for upcoming events.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.

A devastating winter windstorm left a lasting mark across Northwest Montana — and now the full impact is coming into focus. In this episode of News Now, reporter Taylor Inman breaks down the massive trail damage stretching from Libby to the Flathead Valley, what it means for outdoor recreation this spring, and the growing wildfire concerns tied to an unusually dry season.

Plus, a first look at the future of Kalispell Center Mall. Developers unveil ambitious plans to transform the aging property into a modern, walkable hub featuring retail, housing, green space, and possibly a new library branch.

We also highlight a powerful health message during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month — why screenings are more critical than ever, especially for people under 50. And in Mineral County, two Montana officers are being recognized for extraordinary bravery after saving two lives in a snowbound vehicle incident. Finally, Kalispell’s Downtown Forward Coalition outlines its vision for improving parking, walkability, and long-term growth in the city’s business district.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman begins inside Glacier National Park, where crews are preparing to seal Montana’s first oil well - more than 125 years after it was drilled near Kintla Lake. The historic project will impact campground access and highlights a little-known chapter of early oil exploration in the region.

Next, Kalispell voters are set to decide on a $1.1 million levy to fund elementary schools. With rising costs and declining enrollment, district leaders say the outcome could shape staffing, class sizes, and day-to-day operations across six schools.

We also take a closer look at the dangers of backcountry aviation after two fatal crashes at Ryan Field near West Glacier. Pilots and experts explain how terrain, weather, and experience levels can make mountain flying especially risky.

Finally, Libby officials have lifted a months-long water advisory following December’s flooding, marking a major step toward recovery after significant infrastructure damage.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.

Host Taylor Inman breaks down the biggest stories impacting communities across the Flathead Valley and Northwest Montana. Firefighters quickly extinguished a blaze at the Courtyard Apartments near Kalispell’s Airport Road, preventing serious injuries while several residents were evaluated for smoke inhalation.

Meanwhile, thousands of residents across Lincoln and Flathead counties were left without power after a severe windstorm swept through the region, knocking down trees, closing schools and forcing travel restrictions as crews worked to restore electricity.

The episode also examines a court development in Lake County, where a Ronan man entered an Alford plea in a case involving allegations of abuse of a vulnerable person.

Additional stories include coverage of a Democratic congressional forum held in Whitefish as candidates compete to replace outgoing U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, a proposed Kalispell policy change that could eliminate public hearings for subdivision proposals, and new logging activity tied to the Frozen Moose Project in the North Fork area of the Flathead National Forest.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.

Host Taylor Inman presents a detailed overview of the most significant headlines impacting Northwest Montana this week. The episode begins with a report on an ongoing investigation by the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office into an alleged deliberate homicide in Hungry Horse involving the fatal shooting of 30-year-old David Bollman. We also cover the tragic drowning of a 63-year-old Troy man on Spar Lake following an ice fishing accident over the weekend. 

In legal news, the program details the sentencing of a Kalispell woman in Whitefish Municipal Court for her actions during a Border Patrol protest in 2025. Additionally, we explore the debate among conservationists regarding the best use of an estimated $37 million in newly available funding for habitat improvement projects, which was generated by the state’s recreational marijuana tax. Finally, we look into the recent merger between the Columbia Falls-based defense firm Nomad Global Communication Solutions and the international firm Kratos Defense & Security Solutions.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.

Northwest Montana’s wildest headlines are front and center this week on News Now with your host Taylor Inman. We lead with the conclusion of a massive Flathead Valley crime spree as Michael Ray Downing, the man infamously dubbed the "Cocaine Fairy" by local law enforcement, reaches a plea deal following his arrest for a string of burglaries totaling over $1 million in stolen property. Downing’s legal saga comes to a head alongside the bizarre case of Dustin Lawrence Oswald, who was recently sentenced to a suspended jail term and legally ordered to leave the state of Montana forever after threatening an officer during a public urination arrest in Whitefish.

The episode shifts to urgent safety news as the Flathead Avalanche Center warns of "high" avalanche danger across the Whitefish, Swan, and Flathead ranges following a series of storms that have left the backcountry snowpack in a "touchy" and dangerous state. We also dive into local environmental efforts in Polson, where the Flathead Lakers and Polson Bay Golf Course are launching a $150,000 public-private partnership to combat E. coli and algal blooms impacting Flathead Lake’s water quality.

In political news, we break down the heating intraparty competition in Northwest Montana as the candidate filing period reveals major Republican primary showdowns for the state House, Senate, and Public Service Commission. Finally, we celebrate local storytelling with a look at two documentaries filmed on the Flathead Indian Reservation, "The Water Keepers" and "Paving the Way," which are currently contending for the prestigious Big Sky Award at the 2026 Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.

Northwest Montana deserves strong news reporting. Your donation helps continue work like this possible. Learn more at dailyinterlake.com/support

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.