Montana State University Extension publishes latest issue of Lives & Landscapes magazine

BOZEMAN - The latest issue of Lives & Landscapes, the magazine of Montana State University Extension, is now available to read online or request in print. The free magazine is published three times a year.

Co-managing editor Erika Malo said the magazine covers the expansive work of MSU Extension and aims to serve readers in both rural and urban communities.

"We purposefully include articles with practical and easy-to-apply information in an approachable how-to format for readers from all walks of life," Malo said. "Each issue also highlights a featured Montanan who has provided exceptional service to their community through volunteering, collaboration or innovation."

Magazine articles often highlight examples of successful agricultural partnerships and their public impact. In the winter 2026 issue, featured Montanan Brianne Rogers works to coordinate a diverse group of partners for successful shared land use. The Highland Glen property on the eastern edge of Bozeman is a 450-acre parcel owned by Bozeman Health that supports cattle grazing by a private rancher, farming by the MSU Foundation Seed Program and a robust public trail system maintained by two different organizations for hiking and biking in the summer and groomed Nordic skiing in the winter. "It's an inspiring example of stewardship that could inform collaborative land use in communities around the state," said Malo.

An editorial board guides the magazine topics, which often stem from MSU Extension work already happening in Montana communities. Topics include how to encourage physical activity in young children, what to know about using beef tallow, how to propagate plants from stem cuttings, mindfulness strategies for teens, how to talk about transitions with aging parents and how farmer-owned cooperatives are making local food more accessible.

"MSU Extension has been a trusted resource for more than 100 years, providing unbiased and research-based information on countless subjects that expand far beyond our agricultural roots," said Katie Plumb, co-managing editor.

Articles in Lives & Landscapes are written by subject-matter experts and reviewed for accuracy and bias.

"References for more information are often provided so that readers can dig deeper into what interests them most," said Plumb.

To read the current issue, sign up for a free digital or print subscription, order back issues and browse the digital archive, visit montana.edu/extension/lila_extn.html.