The Be Good to Bozeman program was developed in conjunction with local nonprofits, and the Bozeman Convention and Visitors Bureau, as a collective effort to promote sustainable tourism, preserve what we hold near and dear within the Bozeman way of life and to take care of the place we love, for generations to come. For those who live here, and travelers who draw near, Be Good to Bozeman encourages the enjoyment of Bozeman's beauty and a desire to positively impact our community.
How can we "Be Good to Bozeman"? Visit Bozeman has provided 11 amazing ways to contribute!
Scoop up the poop! Pet feces not scooped and disposed of properly is a health risk to children and adults, and it can also wash into our city storm drains or directly into our urban streams, becoming detrimental to water quality.
Pick up litter on the sidewalks or streets. All of the litter and contaminants on our sidewalks go directly into our waterways.
Pick up any cigarette butts you find-- they contain toxic chemicals that can be consumed by animals or dissolve in water.
Clean up fishing line -- it can ensnare birds and other animals.
Shop Local - Local businesses are the foundation of this town. And in Bozeman, you don’t have to compromise or go out of your way to support them. Explore these options first. From local guides to Bozeman-based restaurants, it’s easy to support our vibrant community with your business.
Practice Patience - Our small community is growing and supporting visitors at a breakneck pace. Please be patient with our traffic, our workers and our services as we catch up with the growth.
Recreate Responsibly - Practice Leave No Trace when exploring the outdoors. Pick up after your dog and yourself, always have bear spray accessible, and follow the rules on signs and trailheads.
The Wildlife Are Wild - Please keep your distance from wild animals including Bison, Elk, Deer, Moose, Bear and all other wild creatures. Even though they appear soft and cuddly, they are wild animals including bison. Every year visitors are injured by animals, especially bison, so please avoid being the next viral video and keep a safe distance.
Sharing is Caring - Bozeman is for everyone, from the backcountry to downtown Main Street. Be kind and share the area with locals and visitors from all walks of life.
Learn About Our Area - Whether you are a visitor or a local we encourage you to learn about Bozeman. Visit the Gallatin History Museum, read up on the wild animals of the area in case you encounter any, visit interpretive signs and landmarks to learn about watersheds, forest fires, our unique geology, and historical events that happened near Bozeman.
Plan Ahead & Be Prepare - In summer and winter, last-minute reservations are hard to come by. Save yourself the frustration and plan ahead. Make sure you secure any permits, tours, lodging and transportation you need ahead of time.
Support Bozeman - If you can afford it, donate your money or time to our partner organizations including the Gallatin Watershed Council, Gallatin Valley Land Trust, Downtown Bozeman Association, Outside Kind, Friends of Hyalite and Bridger Ski Foundation. Please review their websites for donation information and volunteer opportunities.
Give Tips & Thanks- Many places in Bozeman are short-staffed like the rest of the country. Show your service workers a little extra kindness, whether it’s in the form of a generous tip or a gracious attitude time visiting.
Find More - For additional ways to Be Good to Bozeman please visit our partner organizations for more specific ideas: Gallatin Watershed Council, Gallatin Valley Land Trust, Downtown Bozeman Association, Outside Kind, Friends of Hyalite and Bridger Ski Foundation
Visitors are encouraged to stop by one of the contributing businesses and organizations around town and pick up a Visitor Volunteer Packet! These packets provide helpful tools and resources such as:
Pickup Locations can be found at:
Downtown Bozeman wants to thank everyone for their interest and participation in the Be Good Bozeman Program! As well as to the various nonprofits involved, Visit Bozeman and Prime Incorporated for launching this campaign.