Missoula County

Missoula County, located in western Montana, is the state's third most populous county, with an estimated population of 122,546 as of 2024. The county encompasses a diverse range of services and facilities aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

Government Services

Missoula County operates under a Board of County Commissioners, which oversees legislative, executive, and administrative functions. The county's seat is the city of Missoula, a vibrant urban center known for its cultural and educational institutions.

The county's administrative offices provide comprehensive information on various departments, services, and resources available to the public.

Public Schools

The Missoula County Public Schools (MCPS) district serves a significant portion of the county's youth, offering educational programs from kindergarten through high school.

The district emphasizes early literacy, with programs designed to support students' reading and writing skills from an early age. For instance, the MCPS Early Literacy Program is a free, full-time, classroom-based initiative aimed at fostering literacy among young learners.

Public Safety and Emergency Services

The county is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents through various public safety initiatives.

This includes law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and emergency medical services that work collaboratively to respond to incidents and maintain public order.

Additionally, the Safer Montana tip line offers a confidential platform for individuals to report safety concerns, contributing to a proactive approach to community safety.

Environmental and Natural Resources

Missoula County is characterized by its rich natural resources and diverse ecosystems. The county's geography includes mountainous terrains, valleys, and rivers, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship.

The U.S. Forest Service's Missoula Fire Sciences Laboratory conducts research to enhance understanding and predictive modeling of fire behavior, aiding in wildfire mitigation efforts.

Cultural and Community Services

The county supports a variety of cultural and community services that enrich the lives of its residents, including:

• Public libraries
• Community centers
• Recreational facilities offering programs and activities for all age groups

The city of Missoula, as the county seat, serves as a cultural hub, hosting events, festivals, and institutions that celebrate the region's heritage and diversity.

Economic Development

Missoula County's economy is diverse, with major employers such as:

• The University of Montana
• Regional hospitals
• The U.S. Forest Service

The county also supports small businesses, with a significant portion of the workforce employed by enterprises with fewer than 20 workers. This economic diversity contributes to the county's resilience and growth.

Locations

Missoula County locations include multiple areas within Missoula, MT, USA, featuring:

• Missoula, MT, USA at latitude 46.8721284 and longitude -113.9940314
• Missoula, MT, USA at latitude 46.873363 and longitude -113.99581
• Missoula, MT, USA at latitude 46.863728 and longitude -113.99958

These locations serve as the central hubs for the county’s administration and services.