Montana Range Days Celebrates 50 Years In Phillips County

Statewide rangelands education event coming to the Malta area June 22–24, 2026

MALTA, Mont. — Montana Range Days will celebrate its 50th year in Phillips County on June 22–24, 2026. The statewide rangelands education event will bring youth, families, ranchers, and natural resource professionals to the Malta area for three days of hands-on learning, friendly competition, and outdoor exploration.

Montana Range Days moves to a new community every two years, and Phillips County will proudly host the event for the next two summers. The Phillips County Conservation District is leading local planning efforts.

Since its start in 1977, Montana Range Days has welcomed more than 7,000 participants from across the state. Each host community works with statewide sponsors and volunteers who contribute time, materials, and financial support to make the event possible.

Organizers are currently seeking sponsors to support this milestone 50th anniversary event. Initial outreach to businesses and organizations has already begun, with many potential sponsors having received a first call. Follow-up conversations will be taking place soon, and additional partners are encouraged to get involved. Sponsorship provides an opportunity to support youth education and rangeland stewardship while gaining visibility at a well-attended statewide event.

Local planning is being guided by a committee that includes ranchers, local business leaders and invested community members, the Phillips County Conservation District, the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance, and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Together, they are excited to welcome visitors to Phillips County and showcase the area’s strong tradition of rangeland stewardship.

With activities designed for participants of all ages, the event offers a unique opportunity for families, students, and professionals to learn together.

Participants can look forward to opportunities to:
• Learn and Compete – Participate in hands-on workshops and contests designed for all ages to build and test rangeland knowledge.
• Explore the Outdoors – Learn about plant identification, soils, ecology, and management techniques in a beautiful Phillips County setting.
• Meet the Experts – Connect with knowledgeable volunteers who guide participants through engaging activities and hands-on learning.
• Be Part of the Team – Volunteers are needed to help lead activities, especially for younger participants ages 4–11.

Organizers expect the event to bring visitors from across Montana and neighboring states to Phillips County, resulting in increased activity throughout the Malta area. Residents and businesses are encouraged to plan ahead for a busy and exciting few days in the community.

Community members who enjoy teaching, working with youth, or helping with outdoor educational activities are encouraged to volunteer.

Ready to volunteer?
Contact Shilo Messerly at shilo.messerly@usda.gov or 406-301-2233 if you are interested in helping with contests or workshops.

For more information about the event, general volunteering, or sponsorship opportunities, contact the Phillips County Conservation District at (406) 301-5088 ext. 5088.

Additional details and registration information will be available this spring at MontanaRangeDays.org.