This case study documents the effort of a small group of beef producers on the Flathead Reservation in northwest Montana to develop and market a value added beef jerky product. It reviews the process, through interviews with those involved, from the initial idea through the successful development and marketing of the product.

This is the first and only text dealing exclusively and authoritatively with municipal and county government in the Big Sky state. The authors examine the architecture, politics and needed reforms of Montana's local governments within the context of the American federal system and within the constitutional framework of Montana state government.

Also included in this work is a critical analysis of the Montana political system as it enters the Twenty-First Century and a detailed description of how local politics shapes the policy decisions of county and municipal officials.

Other chapters detail local taxes and finances, typical functions of county and municipal governments and special districts, community development strategies and self-government powers. Also includes the U.S. Constitution and the Montana State Constitution.

Environmentally attractive communities, especially in the western United States, continue to experience an influx of residents seeking a better quality of life. Many of these towns are scrambling to find ways to manage growth, both inside and outside their city limits. This program explores some of the management techniques used by Rocky Mountain communities.

Natural attractions throughout America provide the backdrop for a host of tourist opportunities. This video provides an overview of nature tourism businesses ranging from bird watching, photo tours, ATV recreation, environmental lodges, scenic flights and others. Businesses in Alaska, Hawaii, Montana, Utah and Wyoming are featured. (32:16 minutes, 2003).

A 45-page resource for people supervising, serving on or interested in public boards across the state. Among the topics covered in the handbook are Montana's open meetings law, code of ethics, board liability, information on wrongful discharge, discrimination, and use of Robert's Rules of Order and motions. Also available for purchase as a downloadable pdf.

Setting group goals: Groups are often ambitious in achieving initial goals, but then stagnate when new goals are not set. This MontGuide describes several methods for setting and achieving group goals, including brainstorming, the nominal group technique and force field analysis. 4 pages; black and white.

Using focus groups for community development: Focus groups can be an effective means of involving citizens in a decision making process. Yet focus groups can also increase conflict and strain group dynamics if not properly executed. This publication provides information on the reasons to use a focus group, the steps involved, the types of questions that could be posed and expected outcomes. 4 pages; black and white.