May is National Tourism Month and we recognize the vital importance that the industry plays in our economic ecosystem here in the Flathead. We are shaking it up this year and bringing some changes to the “normal” program.

Diane Medler, Executive Director, Discover Kalispell, will share industry trends, a few highlights from their ’25-’26 Strategic Plan for bolstering tourism and visitor spending in our shoulder seasons, and available resources for your business to partner with us in educating visitors on responsible recreation.

Jim Elser, the director of the Flathead Lake Biological Station, will share how their research, education, and monitoring serve the state of Montana, the nation, and the world. He will give an update on the state of the lake and how you can support FLBS and be good stewards of this amazing waterway. Happy 125th Anniversary to FLBS!

Dillon Tabish, Regional Information and Education Program Manager, Fish Wildlife and Parks, will discuss new and changing recreation access and conservation initiatives. Learn how you use your voice and provide comments to the process.