In case you missed them last week, we break down the biggest headlines impacting Northwest Montana. Dozens of Flathead National Forest employees were laid off amid sweeping federal workforce cuts, sparking backlash and uncertainty. In Columbia Falls, an explosion and fire rocked the Weyerhaeuser MDF plant, leaving the community shaken. Meanwhile, Glacier National Park unveils a new fire management plan that includes prescribed burns and preventative measures to combat future wildfires. Get the latest details on these major stories and what they mean for our region. 

Read more of this week’s stories: 

Flathead National Forest DOGE cuts detailed; many did not save taxpayer dollars

Explosion at Weyerhaeuser plant rocks Columbia Falls

Glacier National Park updates wildfire response plan

Read more local and state coverage: 

Skier taps into survival skills after getting lost on Blacktail Mountain

Trump's firing of 1,000 national park workers raises concerns about maintenance and operating hours

State Supreme Court Chief Justice warns lawmakers against making judiciary partisan

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.

In Season 3 of Daily Inter Lake's Deep Dive podcast, we explore the devastating fire that struck the small town of Noxon, Montana. By the end of the day on February 27, 2024, three-quarters of the town’s business community were wiped out. Listen to the two-part story on any audio platform you prefer, or watch the series on our YouTube channel.

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