Applications for a permit to float the Smith River began on Jan. 2, and will be accepted through Feb. 15. The permit drawing will be held on Feb. 19.

If the Smith River were a medical patient, its doctors now have in hand a series of studies showing its health problems — higher June water temperatures, reduced water quantity and degraded habitat.

The Montana Supreme Court upheld the water use permit for a controversial proposal for a copper mine near the Smith River.

If the Smith River were a medical patient, its doctors now have in hand a series of studies showing its health problems — higher June water temperatures, reduced water quantity and degraded habitat.