Environment

 

August 2018 - Wildfires

Wildfires and Outdoor Activities

• Monitor air quality in the area and plan outdoor activities accordingly
• Remember dust masks do not provide protection against wildfire smoke
• Know when to cancel outdoor activities by paying attention to local air quality reports and local guidance.

Prevent Wildfires and Be Prepared

• Wildfires can occur naturally, but approximately 90% are human caused.
• Make sure your summer plans include fire safety for campfires, BBQs, and fireworks.
• Prepare your home and surrounding area and have an evacuation kit and action plan for your family and your animals.

February 2018 - Chronic Wasting Disease

• Chronic wasting disease (CWD), recently detected in Montana, is a progressive and fatal transmissible spongiform encephalopathy in wild cervids including deer, elk, moose, and reindeer.
• Precautions when field dressing wild cervids include wearing gloves and eye protection, minimizing handling of brain and spinal tissues, and practicing good hand hygiene.
• To date, worldwide, no reported human cases of CWD  have occurred; however, consuming meat from infected animals is not recommended