3 Quick and Easy Ways to Become a “Good Montanan”

Moving to Montana is a big deal. It's a huge state, lots of excellent places to live, myriad outdoor activities, etc. But it's absolutely crucial that folks moving to Montana keep in mind these very easy ways for them to become a 'good Montanan'. Montana has it's own set of unique living requirements.

GET INVOLVED WITH A LOCAL NON-PROFIT ASAP

Whatever you're passionate about - there's an organization that needs and wants your help. Kids, the elderly, animals, the homeless, trails, gardening...whatever. Reach out to a local group as soon as you possibly can. Joining a local group is one of the quickest ways to meet people who share your passion.

The best citizens of a community spend some time volunteering. Not only is it obviously beneficial to your new home, but the people you'll meet are some of the most connected in the city. It's a chain reaction of becoming part of the fabric of a place.

HAVE RESPECT FOR THOSE WHO HUNT, FISH, AND OWN FIREARMS

This is Montana - the Last Best Place. We still have access to so many outdoor pursuits that other states are losing at a rapid pace. Hunting or guns might not be your bag, but remember that they're still a big deal here. Please don't try to change that.

"According to RAND Corporation estimates, approximately 65.0% of households in Montana own at least one gun, the highest gun ownership rate among the 50 states." I don't hunt anymore, but I enjoy shooting. It's a sport here. It's a social thing here. The vast majority of folks who own firearms are incredibly responsible and have their weapons for home protection or hunting.

DON'T JUST BE A GOOD NEIGHBOR, BE A TRULY HELPFUL NEIGHBOR

There's a big difference between those two things. Waving and saying 'hi' once in a while is much different than getting your hands dirty when a neighbor needs help. The people who live on your street can sometimes be the most important in your day to day Montana life.

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Going out of town for just a couple of days in the winter? It might snow 2 feet and your house will look like you're gone. Helpful neighbors go shovel out your driveway so not only does it look like someone is home, but you don't have to deal with it at midnight when you land and drive home. Good neighbors just get your mail. Big difference.