Montana farmers face potential pricing nightmare as $85B railroad merger threatens to eliminate competition and spike shipping costs for grain and cattle feed.

Montana ranchers and farmers say the labor shortage is no longer isolated—it’s sector-wide and forcing hard choices on daily operations and long-term plans. At the Montana Stockgrowers Association’s Agriculture Labor Summit, producers pushed for real solutions, from local training pipelines to reforms that make the H-2A program more workable.

Idaho Fish and Game’s March 10, 2026 update points to increasing steelhead presence on the Upper Salmon River, with creel data showing improving angler success and river conditions (temperature and discharge) staying favorable for upstream movement. Here’s what the latest trends mean for anglers, conservation, and local businesses—and what to track as the season continues.