Red Lodge Daily Digest Friday, June 26, 2026
Ty's Take
Our fire departments are training together at the new Fireboot Camp, Town Pump's throwing three-quarters of a million dollars at the problem, and nobody's pretending this is some feel-good story about community spirit—it's survival math. Wildfire season doesn't care about budget cycles or staffing shortages, and out here where the timber runs thick and the summer wind can turn a spark into a wall of flame in an afternoon, you either stay sharp and equipped or you don't. The money helps, the training matters, and the fact that these crews are willing to work side-by-side across jurisdictional lines says something about what folks around Red Lodge understand: when the smoke starts rolling down from the high country, we're all on the same mountain.
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Carbon County News
Carbon County Fire Departments Train Side-by-Side at New Annual Fireboot Camp
Carbon County fire departments are launching a new annual training program that brings multiple agencies together for shared professional development. The fireboot camp initiative aims to strengthen firefighting capabilities across the region through collaborative instruction and hands-on exercises.
Town Pump providing $750,000 for firefighters
The Town Pump Charitable Foundation is distributing $750,000 in grants to volunteer fire departments statewide for training, equipment, and operational costs. Applications are open through July 17, with awards announced July 31, addressing the funding gap many volunteer departments face without...
Intermountain Shutting Offices, Cutting Staff in Montana
Intermountain is consolidating operations in Montana, closing offices and reducing its workforce in the state. The company's restructuring will impact local employment and business operations.
Ten years in, and the song still hasn't ended.
A local story marking a decade-long achievement or ongoing community tradition continues to capture attention in Carbon County. The piece celebrates the enduring nature of this local endeavor.
Most Doctors Avoid Private Practice: Will Congress strengthen Medicare for New Doctors?
New physicians are increasingly avoiding private practice, raising questions about the viability of independent medical practices in rural areas. Congress may need to strengthen Medicare reimbursement rates to encourage doctors to establish practices in underserved communities.
A Review of NWE’s Final IRP by MEIC: A Breakdown in Plain Language
A local environmental group has analyzed Northwestern Energy's latest Integrated Resource Plan with an explanation designed for general readers. The review breaks down the utility's long-term energy strategy in accessible language.
Home of Champions Rodeo Schedule
Red Lodge's Home of Champions Rodeo returns for its 96th year this July, kicking off July 1 with a PRCA Xtreme Bulls Tour featuring elite bull riders. The full rodeo runs July 2-4 at the Red Lodge Rodeo Grounds with gates opening at 4 p.m. most nights.
Nominations Now Open for Farmers and Ranchers to Serve on USDA Farm Service Agency County Committees
Farmers and ranchers in the county are being invited to apply for positions on the USDA Farm Service Agency County Committees. These volunteer positions play a key role in administering federal agricultural programs at the local level.
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