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Acknowledgements 0
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Bozeman Climate Plan
Draft – August 2020
Acknowledgements i
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Acknowledgements ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Bozeman Climate Plan was led by the City of Bozeman, but it is a plan for our entire community. It
was made possible by an accomplished team of committed community members representing students,
non-profits, small businesses, utilities, civic associations, Montana State University, farmers, health care
professionals, neighbors, and City staff. Thank you for joining us in this effort to help define our pathway
to a low-carbon future.
CITY COMMISSION
Mayor Cyndy Andrus
Deputy Mayor Terry Cunningham
Commissioner I-Ho Pomeroy
Commissioner Jennifer Madgic
Commissioner Michael Wallner
CITY OF BOZEMAN STAFF
• Jon Henderson, Strategic Services Director • Jessica Ahlstrom, Water Conservation Manager
• Natalie Meyer, Sustainability Program Manager • Kayla Mehrens, Stormwater Program Coordinator
• Heather Higinbotham Davies, Energy Cons. Tech • Shawn Kohtz, City Engineer
• Chris Saunders, Community Development Manager • Taylor Lonsdale, Transportation Engineer
• Sarah Rosenberg, Community Development Planner • Addi Jadin, Parks Planning & Dev. Manager
• Tanya Andreasen, Community Housing Manager • Alex Nordquest, Forestry Division Manager
• Melody Mileur, Communications Coordinator • Dani Hess, Neighborhoods Coordinator
CONSULTING TEAM
• Judy Dorsey, Executive Project Manager, Brendle Group
• Shelby Sommer, Project Manager, Brendle Group
• Becca Stock, Project Analyst, Brendle Group
• Katie Kershman, Graphic Design, Brendle Group
• Sarah Martin, Project Planner, Brendle Group
• Britt Ide, Energy Advisor, Ide Energy1
• Bruce Meighen, Community Plan & Engagement Support, Logan Simpson Design
• Megan Moore, Community Plan & Engagement Support, Logan Simpson Design
1 Britt Ide serves on the NorthWestern Energy Board of Directors, the Coalition for Green Capital Board of Directors, and co-
authored the City of Boise’s Energy Future, a plan to achieve 100% renewable energy.
Acknowledgements iii
CLIMATE TEAM
• Heather Bellamy, NorthWestern Energy
• Kristin Blackler, Montana State University
• Sara Blessing, Bozeman Sunrise Movement
• Emma Bode, Forward Montana
• Jennifer Boyer, Farm 51
• John Bushnell, NorthWestern Energy
• Randy Carpenter, Future West
• Wyatt Catron, Montana Weatherization
Center
• Lori Christenson, Gallatin County Health
Department
• Terry Cunningham, Bozeman City Commission
• Chris Dorsi, Montana Weatherization Center-
MSU Extension
• Robert Drake, Bridger Bowl
• Douglas Fischer, Bozeman School District
• Jeff Fox, Renewable Northwest
• Eli Frandsen, Montana State University-
Student Body
• Danae Giannetti, Western Transportation
Institute
• Heather Grenier, Human Resources
Development Council
• Bonnie Hickey, Bridger Bowl
• Erin Jackson, Gallatin Valley Farm to School
• Danica Jamison, United Way
• Libby Khumalo, World Wildlife Fund
• Karin Kirk, Freelance Writing, Science
Education
• Jason Klimpke, Mystery Ranch
• Anders Lewendal, Southwest Montana
Building Industry Association
• Candace Mastel, Bozeman Area Bicycle
Board, MSU Planning
• Addie Melvin, JM Engineering
• Owen Mitchell, Bozeman High School-Student
Body
• Riley Nash Wanzek, Montana State
University-Student Body
• Chris Naumann, Downtown Bozeman
Partnership
• Chris Pope, Montana Legislature-HD 65
• Nicole Rowley, Gallatin County
• Lindsey Schack, Love Schack Architects
• Jay Sinnott, Bozeman Climate Partners
• Bill Stoddart, North Fork Financial
• Claire Vlases, Bozeman High School-Student
Body
• Edie Wiley, Bozeman Health
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CLIMATE PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Implementing this ambitious Climate Plan will lower Bozeman’s
contribution to climate change while making the community
more resilient to the local impacts from an already changing
climate. Moreover, it will advance Bozeman’s strategic priorities
to be a safe, inclusive community that fosters civic engagement,
a thriving diversified economy, a strong environmental ethic, and
a high quality of life as the community grows and changes.
In setting bold new goals and actionable strategies, the plan
reaffirms and expands past commitments made in the 2011
Community Climate Action Plan (CAP) and in a 2017 resolution to
uphold the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement through local
action.
RELEVANCE DURING UNPRECEDENTED TIMES
During the course of developing this plan, COVID-19 has swept
the globe, and more recently there have been widespread
protests to address systemic racial inequalities in our country.
These events reinforce the timeliness and relevance of this plan,
in particular the resiliency goals to protect human health and
increase social cohesion and the cross-cutting focus on equity.
Further, COVID-19 may be an insightful test of the community
resolve and cooperative frameworks needed to manage through
this pandemic. The experience demonstrates the need to remain
resilient and flexible to changing economic conditions while
proactively addressing climate change. Aligning these pursuits
will help ease suffering among Bozeman’s most vulnerable
populations and create synergies with related priorities like
affordable housing.
As national policy frameworks are being considered for building
back better and more equitably after COVID-19, climate action
takes on new meaning and opportunity. For example,
considering Bozeman community members currently spend over
$100 million per year on electricity, natural gas, and
transportation fuels, the transition to a carbon neutral economy
over the next 30 years can and should be navigated with short-
term economic conditions in mind. This includes prioritizing cost-
effective solutions and aligning with the City’s efforts to foster a
strong economic base.
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VISION FOR THE FUTURE AND STAYING THE COURSE
Given today’s risks and a highly uncertain future, the plan’s vison and guiding principles will help ensure relevance
throughout Bozeman’s 30-year journey to carbon neutrality.
Climate Vision
Through leadership and collaboration, the City of Bozeman will advance
innovative solutions to cultivate a more equitable and resilient low-carbon
community for current and future generations.
Guiding Principles
Bozeman will be a leader in addressing climate change by:
• Adopting bold targets for emissions reduction and renewable energy.
• Seeking innovative, actionable solutions to mitigate climate change.
• Weaving sustainability and resilience into decision-making processes.
• Pursuing partnerships with other municipalities and our utility provider.
• Inviting all Bozeman residents to join us, including current and future leaders.
BOLD TARGETS FOR EMISSIONS REDUCTION AND RENEWABLE ENERGY
Delivering on the first guiding principle, the bold emissions mitigation targets summarized below set a pathway to carbon
neutrality by 2050, starting with significantly reducing emissions in the next five years, then transitioning to 100% net
clean electricity within 10 years.
Mitigation Goals Resiliency Goals
26% emissions reduction by 2025 (below 2008)
100% net clean electricity by 2030
Carbon neutral by 2050
Conserve natural resources
Strengthen infrastructure to withstand natural hazards
Increase social cohesionMitigate property and economic losses
Protect human health
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The resiliency goals address the impacts of climate change identified in the 2019 City of Bozeman Vulnerability Assessment
and Resiliency Strategy:
Despite years of climate action, total community emissions have increased since 2008. This increase is closely related to
the 37% population growth the community experienced in the past decade. Overall, per capita emissions have declined
by 15% since 2008. Looking to the future, Bozeman will need to continue addressing per-capita emissions by prioritizing
high-impact emissions reduction opportunities. Because 57% of Bozeman’s 2018 emissions came from building energy
use, improving building efficiency and increasing renewable energy supply are paramount to achieving the near-term
emissions reduction goal. Meanwhile, transportation is the fastest growing sector of community emissions with a 50%
increase since 2008, requiring a strong immediate response to offset the growth. Over time, as building-related emissions
decrease, efforts to reduce transportation and waste-related emissions will grow in importance to achieve carbon
neutrality.
Extreme
Heat More frequent & intense Mountain
Snowpack Decline in volume
Floods More severe Wildfire More extensive, frequent,
& intense
Drought More frequent & intense Winter
Storms More severe
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A ROBUST SET OF INNOVATIVE, ACTIONABLE SOLUTIONS
Adhering to the second guiding principle, this plan delivers a robust set of 16 innovative, actionable solutions organized
across six focus areas:
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Each solution includes a suite of supporting actions that ultimately help Bozeman achieve its climate vision and goals.
Actions encompass a range of activities including advocacy, projects, programs, infrastructure, outreach, partnerships,
policy, financial tools, studies, and more. To ensure the solutions are actionable, each action includes a detailed
description, action priority level, identification of lead and implementing partners, and performance measures to keep
the action on track.
Based on modeling of the emissions reduction potential for each solution, the following diagram summarizes the pathway
to achieving Bozeman’s GHG emissions reduction goals. The black line along the top of the graph represents actual or
projected business as usual community GHG emissions and each colored wedge represents the contribution of solutions
in each focus area to meeting Bozeman’s GHG mitigation commitments. For more details on the individual solution
contributions see the breakout in each focus area section. Note that two pathways for clean energy are explored in Focus
Area 2: Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply.
Projected GHG emissions and anticipated emissions reduction by focus area
WEAVING SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE INTO DECISION-MAKING PROCESSES
The third guiding principle, weaving sustainability and resilience into decision-making processes, recognizes that the
solutions and their strategies are economically feasible but will require community and political will and a culture shift in
ensuring climate action is infused into city services, business operations, and lifestyle choices.
Embracing this guiding principle, the plan was developed through a comprehensive engagement process. The engagement
process not only served to provide an inclusive approach for developing the elements of this plan, but also to raise the
public and community partners’ interest, understanding, and capacity for weaving climate action into daily decision-
making.
The engagement approach included workshops with an intergenerational, transdisciplinary climate team, focus area
meetings, in-person and online community forums, community survey, public-facing project website, community events
such as a climate lecture at Montana State University, and City staff coordination meetings. See Appendix C: Climate Team
Community GHG Emissions
Carbon Neutral
by 2050
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Workshop Summaries and Appendix D: Community Forum Summaries for detailed notes and materials from these
engagement efforts.
CITY LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERSHIPS ARE CRITICAL TO SUCCESS
In addition to grassroots action across all decision-making, the fourth guiding principle, pursuing partnerships with other
municipalities and our utility provider, recognizes the importance of the City leading the way through its municipal
operations, collaborating with other municipalities regionally and at the state level, and advancing its strategic initiatives
with NorthWestern Energy. Example Priority Level 1 actions in these areas include:
City Leading the Way
• Action 1.A.1. Increase Energy Efficiency at City Facilities
• Action 2.F.1. Plan and Install Renewable Energy Projects for City Facilities
• Action 6.O.1. Invest in Landscaping and Irrigation Upgrades at City Facilities
• Action 6.P.2. Maintain and Expand the Urban Forest
Collaborations with NorthWestern Energy
• Action 2.D.2. Collaborate and Innovate Utility-Scale Renewable Energy Solutions
• Action 4.K.1. Support Community EV Roadmap Development
• Action 4.K.2. Collaborate to Install Publicly Accessible EV Infrastructure
State-Level Partnerships with Other Municipalities
• Action 1.B.2. Advocate for Adoption of State-Wide Net Zero Energy Code
• Action 2.D.3. Support Policies to Expand Renewable Energy and Just Transition Initiatives
Collaborations with Regional Municipalities and Partners
• Action 3.G.1. Continue Regional Coordination on Compact Growth and Sustainable Development
• Action 4.J.1. Prioritize Regional Multi-Modal Planning and Connectivity
• Action 4.J.4. Pursue Sustainable Transit Funding and Expansion
• Action 4.J.6. Support Regional Transit Service Coordination and Outreach
INVITING ALL BOZEMAN RESIDENTS TO JOIN US, INCLUDING CURRENT AND FUTURE LEADERS
Finally, the fifth guiding principle recognizes the shared responsibility for implementing the solutions in this plan in order
to achieve the myriad emissions reduction and resiliency benefits documented throughout this plan. As the City and its
partners create climate action policies, programs, and services, Bozeman residents and businesses can do their part by
learning about their contribution to Bozeman’s greenhouse gas emissions and becoming supportive adopters of new
climate actions as they become available. Example action items that invite all Bozeman residents, businesses, and
community organizations to get involved are outlined on the following pages.
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Inviting Bozeman Residents to Join the Climate Effort!
Bozeman residents are encouraged to print a copy of this page and the next as a quick reference guide for how you can
do your part in supporting the Climate Plan. See the more detailed action descriptions in the Climate Plan to learn more
about how each action contributes to Bozeman’s climate goals. Check off actions as you complete them!
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Inviting Bozeman Businesses and
Community Organizations to Join the Climate Effort!
Reduce energy usage during peak energy demand (4pm to 8pm) (Action 1.A.2.)
Become a City of Bozeman Energy Project Partner (Action 1.A.3.)
Contact NorthWestern Energy to schedule an energy appraisal and implement appraisal
recommendations (Action 1.A.3.)
Monitor and benchmark your building’s energy performance (Action 1.A.4.)
Explore opportunities to install on-site renewable energy and storage on your property
(Action 2.F.4.)
Review City maps to understand if you are in a location that is vulnerable to flooding, fires,
or other hazards and develop an emergency and continuity of operations plan if a hazard
event occurs (Action 3.H.3.)
Engage your employees or constituents in emergency preparedness planning, drills, and
protocols (Action 3.H.3.)
Provide options and incentives for employee telecommuting and alternatives to single-
occupancy vehicle travel (e.g., bike to work days, preferred parking spots, carpool
matching, bicycle racks, wellness programs, etc.) (Actions 4.J.2. and 4.J.5.)
Install electric vehicle charging infrastructure for fleet, employee, and potentially public use
(Action 4.K.2.)
Convert fleet vehicles and equipment to electric or alternative fuel models (Action 4.K.3.)
Establish and enforce employee idling policies when using personal or fleet vehicles for
business use (Action 4.K.5.).
Limit non-essential airline travel and/or purchase carbon offsets for airline trips (Action
4.L.1.)
Review your supply chain and consumption practices and look for opportunities to use less
packaging, reuse or recycle materials, and compost organic waste (Action 5.M.1.)
Provide markets for recycled products by supporting suppliers and businesses that use
recycled materials (Action 5.M.1.)
Reuse or donate used equipment and goods (Action 5.M.1.)
Donate unused food and right-size large catering orders (Action 5.M.1.)
Plant and maintain trees (Action 6.P.2.)
Purchase products that support growth of the local food system (Action 6.N.3.).
Update irrigation equipment and landscaping to use less water (Action 6.O.2.)
Reduce pesticide and herbicide use (Action 6.P.4.)
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Solution and Action Summary Table
Focus
Area Action
Priority
Level Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
1.A.1. Increase Energy Efficiency at City Facilities 1
1.A.2. Use Data and Price Signals to Advance Energy Efficiency 1
1.A.3. Expand Energy Efficiency Information and Resources for Private Property 1
1.A.4. Establish an Energy and Water Benchmarking Standard for Commercial Buildings 1
1.A.5. Require Home Energy Labeling at Time of Listing 2
1.A.6. Promote Energy Efficiency Financing and Investment 2
1.A.7. Create a Rental Registry Program to Advance Renter Safety and Energy Efficiency 3
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
1.B.1. Support High Performance Building Resources and Training for the Development
Community 1
1.B.2. Advocate for Adoption of State-Wide Net Zero Energy Code 1
1.B.3. Encourage High Performance Construction for All Publicly Funded Buildings 2
1.B.4. Analyze and Support Opportunities for District Energy 2
1.B.5. Offer a Voluntary Pathway & Incentives for Above-Code Construction 3
Solution C. Electrify Buildings
1.C.1. Advance Electrification Upgrades and Conversion Projects for City Facilities 2
1.C.2. Include an Electrification Component for Above-Code Construction 3
1.C.3. Support Outreach and Incentives for Electric Appliances and Equipment 3 19BFocus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
2.D.1. Complete a 100% Net Clean Electricity Community Feasibility Study 2
2.D.2. Collaborative and Innovate Utility-Scale Solutions with Utility Provider 1
2.D.3. Support Policies to Expand Renewable Energy and Just Transition Initiatives 1
2.D.4. Encourage Philosophical Shift for Utility Provider 1
Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
2.E.1. Advance Green Tariff Program Development and Participation 1
Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
2.F.1. Plan and Install Renewable Energy Projects for City Facilities 1
2.F.2. Streamline Solar Permitting and Adopt Solar-Ready Code Provisions 1
2.F.3. Advance Distributed Solar Policies 2
2.F.4. Promote Education and Incentives for Distributed Renewable Energy and Storage 3
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Focus
Area Action
Priority
Level Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
3.G.1. Continue Regional Coordination on Compact Growth and Sustainable Development 1
3.G.2. Review Development Code to Enhance Compact and Sustainable Development 1
3.G.3. Develop Sustainable Neighborhoods Outreach 2
Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
3.H.1. Plan for Resilience Hubs at Critical Facilities 1
3.H.2. Advance Resilience in Development Code and Development Review 1
3.H.3. Support Business and Residential Preparedness Outreach 2
3.H.4. Incorporate Resilience into Infrastructure Plans 2
Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
3.I.1. Support Community and Neighborhood Resilience Programming 1 22BFocus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
4.J.1. Prioritize Regional Multi-Modal Planning and Connectivity 1
4.J.2. Pursue Innovative Funding for Pedestrian and Bicycle Connections and Network 1
4.J.3. Improve Maintenance of Multi-Modal Infrastructure 1
4.J.4. Pursue Sustainable Transit Funding and Expansion 1
4.J.5. Support Employee Trip Reduction Programs and Transportation Demand Management 1
4.J.6. Support Regional Transit Service Coordination and Outreach 1
4.J.7. Leverage Parking Policies to Encourage Other Modes of Transportation 2
4.J.8. Develop Bike and Car Share Programs 3
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
4.K.1. Support Community EV Roadmap Development 1
4.K.2. Collaborate to Install Publicly Accessible EV Infrastructure 1
4.K.3. City Fleet and Transit EV Investment 2
4.K.4. Advocate for EV Utility Rates, Incentives, Infrastructure, and Efficiency Standards 2
4.K.5. Limit Wasteful Vehicle Emissions 2
4.K.6. Support EV Group Buy and Outreach 3
Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
4.L.1. Build Awareness of Air Travel Impacts and Alternatives 2
4.L.2. Advocate for Increased Air Travel Efficiency 3
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Focus
Area Action
Priority
Level 23BFocus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
5.M.1. Actively Promote Source Reduction, Recycling, and Repair 1
5.M.2. Expand Composting Services and Collection 1
5.M.3. Improve Waste Policies, Services, and Operations 2
5.M.4. Support Construction Waste Diversion 2
5.M.5. Encourage the Development of Material Markets 3
5.M.6. Develop Plans for Green Purchasing and Zero Waste Events for City Operations 3 25BFocus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
6.N.1. Support the Formation of a Local Food Council 1
6.N.2. Help Develop a Food System Assessment and Security Plan 2
6.N.3. Encourage Local Agriculture and Preservation of Working Lands 2
6.N.4. Support Local Food Production, Processing, and Distribution 3
Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
6.O.1. Invest in Landscaping and Irrigation Upgrades at City Facilities 1
6.O.2. Build on the Success of Water Conservation Education and Incentives 2
6.O.3. Evaluate Additional Water Conservation Code and Water Rate Structure Adjustments 2
Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
6.P.1. Protect Local Wetlands for Flood Resilience and Water Quality 1
6.P.2. Maintain and Expand the Urban Forest 1
6.P.3. Enhance Greenspace and Carbon Sequestration for New Development 1
6.P.4. Provide Outreach on Water Pollution Prevention and Carbon Sequestration Strategies 2
Climate Plan Executive Summary xvi
CONTENTS
Acknowledgements............................................................................................................................ ii
Climate Plan Executive Summary ....................................................................................................... iv
Chapter 1: Introduction ......................................................................................................................2
Aligning with Other Efforts ....................................................................................................................... 3
Plan Development Process ....................................................................................................................... 4
Bozeman’s Climate Vision ......................................................................................................................... 6
Bozeman’s Climate Goals .......................................................................................................................... 7
Plan Organization ...................................................................................................................................... 9
Leading By Example ................................................................................................................................ 15
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions ............................................................................... 17
Baseline Inventory & Future Projections ................................................................................................ 20
Factors Influencing Emissions ................................................................................................................. 25
Emissions Mitigation Goal Progress & Key Milestones ........................................................................... 27
Resiliency Goal Contributions ................................................................................................................. 33
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions ..................................................................................... 35
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings ............................................................................ 35
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply ................................................................... 59
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods .................................................................................. 80
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options .................................................................. 98
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction ........................................................... 124
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment ................................ 135
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide .................................................................................................. 155
Implementation Considerations ........................................................................................................... 155
Keeping the Plan on Track ..................................................................................................................... 160
Implementation Playbook ..................................................................................................................... 161
Community Guide to Implementation .................................................................................................. 164
References ..................................................................................................................................... 169
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary........................................................................................A1
Quantitative Analysis Methodology.......................................................................................................A 3
Appendix B: Existing Plan Summary ..................................................................................................B1
Appendix C: Climate Team Workshop Summaries .............................................................................C1
Appendix D: Community Forum Summaries ......................................................................................D1
Climate Plan Executive Summary xvii
FIGURES
Figure 1. Climate Plan development process timeline ................................................................................. 4
Figure 2: Vision words for the Climate Plan generated by the Climate Team .............................................. 6
Figure 3: Proclamation of Intent related to the City of Bozeman’s Climate Plan from October 2019 ......... 7
Figure 4. Goals of mitigation and resiliency .................................................................................................. 8
Figure 5. 2018 community emissions by sector .......................................................................................... 20
Figure 6. 2018 community emissions by source ......................................................................................... 21
Figure 7. 2018 energy flow diagram of community emissions by sector and source ................................ 22
Figure 8. Comparison of annual emissions by sector ................................................................................. 23
Figure 9. Energy use by inventory year normalized for population and weather ...................................... 25
Figure 10. Review of City of Bozeman population growth estimates ......................................................... 26
Figure 11. Range of projected GHG emissions with business as usual ....................................................... 26
Figure 12. Emissions reduction potential by solution ................................................................................. 28
Figure 13. Projected GHG emissions and anticipated emissions reduction by focus area ......................... 29
Figure 14. Projected building GHG reductions by solution ......................................................................... 36
Figure 15. Example from the Dept. of Energy’s Home Energy Score Program ........................................... 43
Figure 16. Projected clean energy GHG reductions by solution (pathway A) ............................................ 61
Figure 17. Projected clean energy GHG reductions by solution (pathway B) ............................................. 62
Figure 18. Projected neighborhoods GHG reductions by solution ............................................................. 82
Figure 19. Projected transportation GHG emissions reduction by solution ............................................... 99
Figure 20. Projected waste GHG emissions reduction by solution ........................................................... 125
Figure 21. Projected cost of energy use and social cost of carbon under the business-as-usual high-growth
scenario ..................................................................................................................................................... 157
Figure 22. Various population projections for the City of Bozeman .......................................................... A3
Figure 23. Estimated population growth scenarios .................................................................................... A4
Figure 24. Estimated emissions reduction potential by solution ............................................................... A6
TABLES
Table 1. Under the stabilization emissions scenario (RCP 4.5), the difference, or change, projected from
historical conditions (1971-2000) to mid-century (2040-2069) and end-of-century (2070-2099) thirty-year
averages for Southwest Montana. .............................................................................................................. 17
Table 2. Under the business-as-usual emissions scenario (RCP 8.5), the difference, or change, projected
from historical conditions (1971-2000) to mid-century (2040-2069) and end-of-century (2070-2099) thirty-
year averages for Southwest Montana. ...................................................................................................... 18
Table 3. Total emissions (metric tons CO2 equivalent) by sector and inventory year ................................ 24
Table 4. Per capita emissions (metric tons CO2 equivalent) by sector and year ........................................ 24
Table 5. Projected buildings solution mitigation targets ............................................................................ 36
Table 6. Projected clean energy supply solution mitigation targets (pathway A) ...................................... 61
Table 7. Projected clean energy supply solution mitigation targets (pathway B) ...................................... 62
Table 8. Projected neighborhoods solution mitigation targets .................................................................. 82
Climate Plan Executive Summary xviii
Table 9. Projected transportation mitigation targets ............................................................................... 100
Table 10. Projected waste reduction mitigation targets .......................................................................... 125
Table 11. Projected fuel savings and return on investment per mitigation solution ............................... 158
Table 12. Summary of actions by focus area and priority level ................................................................ 161
Table 13: Contribution of each mitigation solution to Bozeman's mitigation goals .................................. A1
Climate Plan Executive Summary 1
CHAPTER 1:
INTRODUCTION
Chapter 1: Introduction 2
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
In 2017, the City of Bozeman passed Resolution 4866 to join the Climate Mayors, a partnership of over
400 United States mayors committing to uphold the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement through local
action. This Climate Plan updates the City’s previous emissions reduction goals, outlined in the 2011
Community Climate Action Plan (CAP), to reflect this commitment. This plan also updates the mitigation
strategies from the 2011 CAP to reflect the latest available climate science, new technologies, and evolving
community priorities. Anticipating future changes and the need to adapt to the risks associated with
changing local climate conditions, the Climate Plan also includes strategies to improve Bozeman’s climate
resiliency.
For more than a decade, Bozeman has made strong commitments to climate action and demonstrated
significant progress in establishing and working toward its climate goals. Noteworthy achievements
include launching and growing the Bozeman Energy Project for businesses, energy efficiency upgrades to
municipal facilities, updates to the Unified Development Code, a food composting pilot program,
installation of a 385 kW solar array at the Water Reclamation Facility through a partnership with
NorthWestern Energy, and fare-free transit rides. This plan aims to leverage and grow these emissions
mitigation activities, while also infusing new ideas and opportunities to reduce emissions and prepare the
Bozeman community to be more resilient in anticipation of future climate change impacts.
This plan is a comprehensive and complex policy document, touching many different facets of daily life in
the Bozeman community and greater region. As such, it is essential to focus on issues beyond emissions
reduction and resiliency benefits and consider the related equity and human health and well-being facets
of each solution and action. Implementation of this plan will undoubtedly create myriad co-benefits as
well as impacts – some known and some yet to be discovered. Highlighting these considerations and
tradeoffs in this plan is a first step in exploring and understanding these issues, though these concepts
will need to remain important lenses and perspectives throughout plan implementation.
The Bozeman community faced many serious challenges and noteworthy events during the development
of this Climate Plan, including the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfire, economic disruptions, community
protests, and municipal leadership changes. While not all are climate-related, all are linked to community
resiliency and Bozeman’s ability to respond, recover, and adapt. The intent of this Climate Plan is to usher
in a new era of community collaboration and innovation not only to address future climate-related goals,
but also to recover and rebound together.
Chapter 1: Introduction 3
ALIGNING WITH OTHER EFFORTS
The Climate Plan is designed to align, support, and strengthen other City of Bozeman and regional efforts.
It does not replace other plans; instead, it helps to create linkages between those plans and climate
impacts, while also providing specificity in terms of implementation roles and priorities. Appendix B:
Existing Plan Summary provides an overview of various plans and policies that relate closely to this effort.
Perhaps most notably, the 2018 City of Bozeman Strategic Plan establishes the overarching direction and
strategic priorities for the City of Bozeman.
The 2020 strategic priorities include:
•Affordable Housing
•Annexation Analysis
•Climate Action
•Community Outreach
•Parks & Trails District
•Planning & Land Use
•Property Tax Relief / Tax Fairness
This plan directly addresses the priority of Climate Action, and also supports the strategic priorities of
affordable housing, community outreach, and planning and land use.
Beyond the Strategic Plan, other closely linked efforts that helped shape the content of this Climate Plan
include:
•Bozeman Community Plan Update (2020)
•Montana Climate Solutions Plan (2020)
•City of Bozeman Climate Vulnerability Assessment and Resilience Strategy (2019)
•NorthWestern Energy Electric Supply Resource Procurement Plan (2019)
Moving forward as other City of Bozeman plans and policies are updated, it is anticipated that this plan
can serve as a resource to help infuse climate considerations and actions into those documents.
Chapter 1: Introduction 4
PLAN DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
In June 2019, the City of Bozeman initiated the
Bozeman Climate Plan process. To help facilitate
diverse public involvement, the City Manager
invited a core group of approximately 30
Bozeman representatives to serve as Climate
Team members to help guide the development
of the Climate Plan (see Resolution 5077). Based
on the Mayor’s encouragement, the Climate
Team includes four youth representatives from
Montana State University and Bozeman High
School and several early-career professionals to
ensure that the City would hear from those who
will be most impacted by climate change. See the
Acknowledgements for a list of all Climate Team
members.
The project management team planned
engagement strategies for community
members, the Climate Team, City Departments,
and the City Commission. A summary of
engagement activities to support the plan
development is illustrated in the following
graphic.
Note that following the COVID-19 pandemic declaration in March of 2020, the project approach and
timeline was adapted to accommodate remote public engagement. Surveys and remote workshops were
employed in lieu of a condensed in-person workshop.
Figure 1. Climate Plan development process timeline
Chapter 1: Introduction 5
Chapter 1: Introduction 6
BOZEMAN’S CLIMATE VISION
A vision is the guiding force that orients the overarching direction for a plan. The Bozeman Climate Plan
vision is organized into two components: a position statement and guiding principles. The position
statement establishes the foundation upon which this plan was built, while the guiding principles form
the pillars that hold up each component of this plan. Together, the position statement and guiding
principles answer the question: how will the City of Bozeman address the imminent and far reaching
impacts of climate change in a manner that lifts and strengthens the entire community?
Position Statement
Through leadership and collaboration, the City of Bozeman will advance innovative
solutions to cultivate a more equitable and resilient low-carbon community for
current and future generations.
Guiding Principles
Bozeman will be a leader in addressing climate change by:
•Adopting bold targets for emissions reduction and renewable energy.
•Weaving sustainability and resilience into decision-making processes.
•Pursuing partnerships with other municipalities and our utility provider.
•Seeking innovative, actionable solutions to mitigate climate change.
•Inviting all Bozeman residents to join us, including current and future leaders.
Figure 2: Vision words for the Climate Plan generated by the Climate Team
Chapter 1: Introduction 7
BOZEMAN’S CLIMATE GOALS
This Climate Plan establishes an assortment of goals for community greenhouse gas emissions reductions
and climate resiliency. These climate goals are based on past City of Bozeman commitments, state-wide
pledges, and the necessity established by current climate science, as summarized below.
• The 2011 Community Climate Action Plan established a goal of “reducing community-wide
greenhouse gas emissions 10% below 2008 levels by 2025.”
• The 2011 Community Climate Action Plan established a goal of reducing per capita emissions to
10 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, not to exceed 695,000 metric tons, by 2020.
• In July 2019, Montana Governor Steve Bullock issued an Executive Order that establishes an
interim goal of “net greenhouse gas neutrality for average annual electric loads in the state by
no later than 2035.”
• The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) 2019 Emissions Gap Report released on
November 26, 2019 indicates that we must reduce global greenhouse gas emissions 7.6% each
year between 2020 and 2030, and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, to avoid more than 1.5°C
(2.7°F of warming).
Figure 3: Proclamation of Intent related to the City of Bozeman’s Climate Plan from October 2019
Chapter 1: Introduction 8
Bozeman’s goals include a mix of quantitative emissions mitigation goals and qualitative community
resiliency goals. Together, these goals work to position the city to achieve its climate vision.
Emissions Mitigation
Mitigation focuses on interventions to reduce or
prevent emissions of greenhouse gases and lessen
the human impact on the climate system.
The City of Bozeman’s mitigation goals recognize
that a rapid transition to non-carbon emitting
clean energy is necessary to eliminate over one-
third of community greenhouse gas emissions.
Furthermore, clean electricity has the potential to
replace gasoline and diesel, which represent an
additional one-third of overall greenhouse gas
emissions. The goals include a mix of near- and
longer-term goals for the years 2025, 2030, and
2050.
Resiliency
Resiliency focuses on increasing the ability of the
community to prepare, plan for, absorb, respond
to, recover from, and adapt to the effects of
climate-related shocks and chronic stressors.
This plan emphasizes the need for the City of
Bozeman to incorporate climate change resiliency
considerations into all City decision making. The
resiliency goals center around being a community
that prepares for, responds quickly to, and
recovers from climate-related events and
stressors through well-planned infrastructure,
supportive social networks, and balanced
economic prosperity.
Figure 4. Goals of mitigation and resiliency
Conserve natural resources
Strengthen infrastructure to withstand natural hazards
Increase social cohesion
Mitigate property and economic losses
Protect human health
26% emissions reduction by 2025 (below 2008)
100% net clean electricity by 2030
Carbon neutral by 2050
Chapter 1: Introduction 9
PLAN ORGANIZATION
The Climate Plan is organized to support Bozeman’s climate vision and goals. The plan emphasizes six
focus areas that help categorize the solutions and actions of the plan. Each focus area presents one or
more mitigation and/or resiliency solutions that can support achievement of the vision and goals.
The final chapter describes how the plan can be implemented and updated over time to reflect new
opportunities and changing community conditions. A series of appendices provide more detailed
documentation and technical information that supported plan development.
Focus Areas
The focus areas serve to categorize the actions necessary for Bozeman to mitigate, and adapt to,
projected climate change impacts. The focus area sections are ordered by their potential to achieve the
mitigation goals, with an underlying concept of “efficiency first.” By focusing on efficiency first, the
Bozeman Climate Plan seeks to accelerate mitigation and resiliency efforts that will maximize the
community’s return on investment. The six focus areas of the Bozeman Climate Plan are:
Each focus area section includes an introduction to the theme and how it relates to Bozeman’s greenhouse
gas emission trends and recent efforts. Additional components detailed within each focus area section
include:
Where are we now Related and supporting plans, policies, and programs
Key activities in this focus area that are necessary to achieve Bozeman’s emissions reduction goals
Reduction targets for each emissions reduction goal
Resiliency opportunities and considerations for each climate hazard
Chapter 1: Introduction 10
Cross-Cutting Topics
In addition to the six focus areas, three cross-cutting topics are infused throughout the entire plan: equity,
health and well-being, and City of Bozeman assets. Each component of this plan was developed within the
context of these three topics, highlighting their importance and relevance to each focus area. A
description of how each of these are addressed throughout the plan is provided in the Climate Solutions
section that follows. Similarly, each Climate Solution includes discussion of how it supports the City of
Bozeman’s Strategic Plan priorities.
Equity
Providing a more equitable future for the entire Bozeman community is a core value captured in the vision
of this plan. Under an equitable climate plan, all community members will reap the benefits of mitigation
and adaptation efforts. Ensuring an equitable path toward a resilient and low-carbon future will mean
considering how each solution proposed in this plan might positively or negatively impact diverse sectors
of the Bozeman community. For example, though pursuing distributed renewable energy (see Solution F.
Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation) is central to achieving mitigation
goals, not every resident may be able to afford the upfront costs, and therefore cannot reap the long-
term savings. Through this careful consideration, all actors involved in implementing this plan can work
to maximize equitable benefits, while avoiding or mitigating negative equity impacts wherever possible.
Human Health and Well-being
This cross-cutting topic seeks to prioritize the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of Bozeman’s
community members in the context of climate action. Mitigation and resiliency activities often yield
significant health benefits, though in some cases, there may be unintended or negative consequences
associated with solutions. For example, if a more diverse transportation future includes significant on-
demand transportation (e.g., Uber and Lyft), air pollution may increase where idling occurs. As with equity
considerations, exploring all of the potential impacts on human health and well-being can help ensure
benefits are maximized, while unintended consequences are limited or avoided.
City Assets
In 2019, the City of Bozeman completed the Vulnerability Assessment and Resiliency Strategy specific to
City assets. This plan identified the City’s most vulnerable assets and set forth strategies for improving
resiliency in the face of five natural hazards. The recommendations from the 2019 Vulnerability
Assessment and Resiliency Plan find synergies in this Climate Plan. Though every member of the Bozeman
community is responsible for implementing this plan, the City will seek to lead by example, making direct
and influential impact by leveraging City Assets.
Chapter 1: Introduction 11
Climate Solutions
Climate solutions are the big ideas that help further organize and describe how the community will make
progress toward Bozeman’s climate vision. Each focus area has one to three proposed solutions, identified
through the first two workshops with the Climate Team. As with the focus areas, solutions are organized
around the concept of improving and maximizing efficiency first, to establish a solid foundation upon
which to build other approaches and innovations. For example, community efforts should focus first on
improving the efficiency of existing buildings, before layering in opportunities to switch fuel sources.
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
Solution C. Electrify Buildings
Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power
Programs
Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed
Renewable Energy Generation
Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and
Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community
Preparedness
Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling, and Use
of Transit
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero
Waste Community
Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester
Carbon
Chapter 1: Introduction 12
Solution Template Overview
Each solution begins with an introductory narrative that provides an overview of the solution’s scope, the
regulatory context within which the solution operates, and key areas of impact for the solution. These
introductory narratives also highlight specific resiliency considerations and call out related efforts led by
the City or key community partners. In addition to a general overview of scope, each solution introduction
identifies the equity, health and well-being considerations, and City asset opportunities relevant for that
solution. Each cross-cutting topic description is marked with an icon.
Equity considerations explore how a solution might provide equity benefits, or how it
might negatively impact equity. Wherever possible, solutions should be implemented to
maximize equity benefits, while avoiding unintended consequences.
Health and well-being considerations identify how a solution could positively or
negatively impact the physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being of Bozeman
community members.
City asset considerations identify opportunities for the City to lead by example through
improvements to public facilities and infrastructure and municipal operations.
Climate Goal Contributions
Each solution is categorized as primarily a mitigation solution or primarily a resiliency solution. For
solutions that provide climate mitigation, the benefits are summarized in terms of which emissions
reduction goals are supported and which fuel sources are impacted. For solutions that provide resiliency
benefits, the summary tables identify which resiliency goal(s) the solution helps to advance.
Related Solutions
None of the solutions in this plan stand alone. In some cases, one solution may find synergies with another
or many other solutions. In other cases, a solution may be wholly dependent on the successful
implementation of one or more solutions. The lists of related solutions help to identify these
interdependencies, and act as a reminder that Bozeman cannot and will not achieve its vision without
collaboration and partnership.
Emissions Reduction Benefits
Resiliency Benefits
Describes how the solution
supports achievement of one or
more of the emissions mitigation
goals.
Also identifies the emissions
sources impacted:
• Electricity
• Natural Gas
• Gasoline & Diesel
• Waste
• Carbon Sequestration
• Conserve natural resources
• Strengthen infrastructure to
natural disaster
• Increase social cohesion
• Mitigate property and
economic losses
• Protect human health
Mitigation Resiliency
Chapter 1: Introduction 13
Actions
Each solution in this plan includes a suite of supporting actions that provide strategy and focus to help
advance the solutions to ultimately help Bozeman achieve its climate vision and goals. Actions encompass
a range of activities including advocacy, projects, programs, outreach, partnerships, policy, financial tools,
studies, and more. Each action begins with a background narrative to explain the steps and activities
necessary to advance the idea. A summary table presents other important details associated with each
action:
Priority 1 – The action is a top priority to show municipal leadership or proof of concept; to
capture the momentum of existing efforts, is necessary to achieve 2025 goals; some
resources for implementation may be available; and/or may be a necessary building
block for subsequent actions.
2 – The action is important to advance in the near-term, but may be dependent on
other actions to begin first; may not be as time sensitive and is more closely related to
long-range goals; and/or the resources for implementation need to be identified or
secured.
3 – The action is a longer-term priority; it may need to begin after other actions; and/or
additional resources are needed for implementation.
Lead &
Implementing
Partners
Achieving the goals in this plan will require a community-wide effort. The City of
Bozeman can play a leadership role by investing taxpayer resources in ways that
advance the goals, but will need the participation of residents, businesses and
community organizations, utilities, and more to successfully implement the solutions
identified.
Each action identifies an implementation lead, as well as supporting partners.
Strategic Plan
Alignment
The City of Bozeman Strategic Plan was adopted via Resolution 4852 to focus on
specific outcomes and guide policy and funding decisions over the next 2 to 5 years.
This section references actions that align with priorities from the Strategic Plan.
Performance
Measures
Periodic greenhouse gas emissions inventories will continue to serve as the over-
arching metric of progress towards Bozeman’s goals. In addition to monitoring total
greenhouse gas emissions, one or more metrics are identified to quantitatively
measure and monitor the implementation status, impact, or performance of each
action.
Chapter 1: Introduction 14
Note that all of the solutions in this plan require a coordinated and collaborative community effort to
ensure successful implementation. The major groups that will play leading and supporting roles in
implementing the solutions and actions within the plan are noted below and referenced throughout this
document.
•City of Bozeman
•Gallatin County
•State of Montana
•Adjacent Jurisdictions
Government
•NorthWestern Energy
•Solid Waste
•Telecommunications
•Water & Sewer
Utilities
•Businesses
•Developers
•Investors
•Montana State University
•Non-profits
•Schools
Businesses & Community Organizations
•Homeowners
•Renters
•Students
•Taxpayers
•Property owners
•Homeowners associations
Residents
Chapter 1: Introduction 15
LEADING BY EXAMPLE
The City of Bozeman has demonstrated a commitment to reducing emissions and enhancing resiliency
through various municipal projects, programs, and initiatives. Below are just a few recent and noteworthy
achievements.
• From 2012-2019, municipal energy efficiency upgrades
saved 3,583 MWh and $371,440.
• Bozeman Energy Project business partner savings from
2015-2019 equaled 522 MWh and $54,882.
• From 2009-2019, Solar PV on city property generated 1,390
MWh of electricity.
• The City of Bozeman partnered with NorthWestern Energy
to install a 385 kW solar array at the Water Reclamation
Facility, which produces enough electricity to offset the
annual consumption of 60 homes.
• In April 2018, the Unified Development Code was adopted
to address the growing population; it includes changes to
standards such as allowing higher density requirements and
smaller lot sizes.
• The Landscaping chapter in the Bozeman Municipal Code
requires drought tolerant landscaping.
• Streamline Transit provided 283,714 fare-free rides in 2018.
• Bozeman was designated a 2016 Silver Bike Friendly
Community by the League of American Bicyclists.
• Both the City of Bozeman and the Gallatin Solid Waste
Management District compost yard waste and a variety of
other organic materials.
• At the closed Story Landfill, methane is captured, flared,
and converted to CO2 before it is emitted into the
atmosphere.
• Through a food waste composting pilot with Montana
State, 540,000 pounds of organics were diverted from the
landfill in 2018.
• The Story Mill Community Park is helping to build healthy
streams and wetlands. The project received the 2017
Montana Wetland Stewardship Award and doubled the size
of Bozeman's largest wetland to 14 acres.
• The 7th Ave. streetscape project integrated green
infrastructure components, including permeable pavers
and underground soil vaults to collect and absorb
stormwater while supporting the maintenance of new
street trees.
Chapter 1: Introduction 16
CHAPTER 2:
CLIMATE TRENDS &
GOAL CONTRIBUTIONS
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 17
CHAPTER 2: CLIMATE TRENDS & GOAL CONTRIBUTIONS
According to the 2017 Montana Climate Assessment, climate change in Montana is predicted to lead to
temperature variability, shifts in precipitation, varying risk of certain severe weather events, and changes
to other features of the climate system (Whitlock et al., 2017).
Table 1 and Table 2 summarize the Montana Climate Assessment’s future projections of impacts to
Bozeman under two future emissions concentration scenarios (i.e., Representative Concentration
Pathways (RCP)), RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5, respectively. Under the stabilization scenario, RCP 4.5, greenhouse
gas emissions peak around 2040 and then begin to decline through the end of this century as atmospheric
carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration begins to level off. Under the business-as-usual scenario, RCP 8.5,
greenhouse gas emissions increase through 2100 and warming continues to rise.
The Montana Climate Assessment examined 20 global climate models and calculated the strength of
consensus for each climate variable’s direction of change (either increasing or decreasing). This is reported
as the percentage of model agreement. Additional information on the climate modeling approach can be
found in the Montana Climate Assessment.
Table 1. Under the stabilization emissions scenario (RCP 4.5), the difference, or change, projected from historical conditions
(1971-2000) to mid-century (2040-2069) and end-of-century (2070-2099) thirty-year averages for Southwest Montana.
RCP 4.5
(2040-2069)
RCP 4.5
(2070-2099)
Model
Agreement
Average annual temperature +4.5˚F +5.6˚F 100%
Average daily summer maximum temperature +4.5˚F +6.5 ˚F 100%
Average number of days above 90˚ F +25 days +29 days 100%
Average number of freeze free days above 32˚ F +30 days +41 days 100%
Average annual precipitation2 +0.9 inch/year +1.1 inch/year 85%3/90%4
Change in summer precipitation -0.1
inch/month -0.1 inch/month 65%
2 Interannual variability projected to range from -0.5 inch/year to +1.5 inch/year (≤80% model agreement).
3 85% model agreement for RCP 4.5 (2040-2069).
4 90% model agreement for RCP 4.5 (2070-2099).
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 18
Table 2. Under the business-as-usual emissions scenario (RCP 8.5), the difference, or change, projected from historical conditions
(1971-2000) to mid-century (2040-2069) and end-of-century (2070-2099) thirty-year averages for Southwest Montana.
RCP 8.5
(2040-2069)
RCP 8.5
(2070-2099)
Model
Agreement
Average annual temperature +6.0˚F +9.8˚F 100%
Average daily summer maximum temperature +6.0˚F +11.8˚F 100%
Average number of days above 90˚ F +33 days +54 days 100%
Average number of freeze free days above 32˚ F +41 days +70 days 100%
Average annual precipitation5 +1.2 inch/year +1.7 inch/year 85%6/100%7
Change in summer precipitation -0.1
inch/month -0.1 inch/month 65%
As characterized in the modeled scenarios, average and annual seasonal temperatures in Montana have
been increasing since the mid-20th century and are predicted to continue to increase through the end of
the century. Likewise, in the modeled scenarios, the timing of precipitation (i.e., winter versus spring and
summer) and the form in which it will occur (i.e., rain versus snow) is anticipated to shift. This combination
of increasingly warmer days with variable precipitation results in interrelated, indirect local climate
impacts.
For example, decreased snowpack may lead to more severe droughts in the summer and a susceptibility
to wildfire risk in the watershed. This type of direct impact will have a broad range of additional, indirect
effects on the local and regional economic and social systems. The heightened susceptibility to wildfire
could reduce the amount and quality of water available, along with damaging ecosystems and
infrastructure, potentially limiting city-wide services available to address the impacts. Therefore, the local
outdoor and tourist economy could be compromised in addition to public health considerations.
Another indirect consequence of climate change is human migration caused by sea level rise and other
extreme weather shocks and stressors. Sea-level rise in coastal communities in the United States is
predicted to increase net-migration to Gallatin County up to an estimated 50,000 people by the end of
the century, exacerbating Bozeman’s existing challenge of rapid population growth (Hauer, 2017).
5 Interannual variability projected to range from -0.4 inch/year to +1.9 inch/year (≥80% model agreement).
6 85% model agreement for RCP 8.5 (2040-2069).
7 100% model agreement for RCP 8.5 (2070-2099).
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 19
Local Climate Change Impacts
Over the past decade, the City of Bozeman has changed rapidly due to a growing population and bustling
economy, leading to increased urbanization, suburbanization, and stress on the area’s natural resources.
Climate change is a major factor that has the potential to continue to significantly shape the community’s
future. Evidence of climate change is well documented throughout the United States (Climate Change
Impacts in the United States: The Third National Climate Assessment, 2014) and Rocky Mountain West
region. The potential climate impacts for Montana (Whitlock, Cross, Maxwell, Silverman & Wade, 2017)
and Bozeman are significant.
The 2019 City of Bozeman Vulnerability Assessment and Resiliency Strategy identifies the following
consequences of climate change. This plan explores solutions to mitigate the community’s impacts on
climate change, as well as solutions that enable the community to adapt and be resilient to these impacts.
Extreme
Heat More frequent & intense Mountain
Snowpack Decline in volume
Floods More severe Wildfire More extensive, frequent,
& intense
Drought More frequent & intense Winter
Storms More severe
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 20
BASELINE INVENTORY & FUTURE PROJECTIONS
The City of Bozeman has been tracking community greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions since 2008 to better
understand the sources of Bozeman’s GHG emissions and monitor progress over time. The information is
used to help inform City decision-making. This inventory adheres to the Global Protocol for Community-
Scale Emissions and the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas (GHG)
emissions. The City of Bozeman Sustainability Office collected data related to energy, transportation, solid
waste, water, wastewater, and emissions factors. We calculated our carbon emissions using the ICLEI
ClearPath platform.
For Bozeman, GHG emissions result from four primary sectors: energy use in homes, energy use in
commercial buildings, fuel use in transportation, and solid waste (see Figure 5). In 2018, Bozeman’s overall
community emissions totaled 607,139 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MT CO2e). Since the
baseline year of 2008, total community emissions have increased 16% while population has increased 37%
over the same period. Based on 2018 census data, Bozeman had 48,532 people, resulting in per capita
emissions of 12.5 MT CO2e per person. Since 2008, per capita emissions have decreased by 15%. Over half
of these emissions (57%) are linked to the energy generated to power our homes, businesses, and
institutions. The next largest source of emissions comes from transportation fuel sources (38%)—most
transportation emissions come from gasoline (63%). The remaining emissions result from solid waste (5%)
and wastewater treatment (<1%).
Figure 5. 2018 Bozeman community emissions by sector
Transportation
38%
Solid Waste 5%
Commercial
Buildings
33%
Residential
Buildings
24%
2018 Community
Emissions by Sector
Total Emissions:607,139 MT CO2e
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 21
The three primary greenhouse gas emissions sources at the local level are electricity, natural gas, and fuel
for our vehicles (Figure 6). Electricity generation remains the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions
at 29%, which is driven by the carbon intensity of coal and natural gas burned to produce the electricity
that serves Bozeman. Natural gas is the second leading emissions source at 27%, which is primarily used
to heat buildings. Gasoline for transportation is the third leading source of emissions totaling 24%.
Figure 6. 2018 community emissions by source
Energy Emissions
Energy supports our modern way of life. We use it for lighting, heating, cooking, powering our devices,
manufacturing, and beyond. This energy use encompasses the largest proportion (56%) of our GHG
emissions. A slight majority of building energy emissions (29%) come from electricity consumption.
Natural gas, which is largely used for building heating, comprises 27% of emissions (Figure 6). Commercial,
institutional, and municipal buildings account for 33% of total emissions and residential buildings account
for 24% of total emissions (Figure 5).
The two primary factors that influence emissions trends over time are the amount of energy used in
different sectors and the composition or carbon intensity (carbon emissions per unit of energy) of the
energy source. As an example, the carbon intensity of Bozeman’s grid electricity has decreased by 23%
since 2008, due to the addition of hydroelectricity and wind energy resources. As of 2018, approximately
60% of the power grid that delivers electricity to Bozeman was derived from low-carbon sources (46%
hydro, 15% wind, and <1% solar) and 40% from non-renewable sources (20% coal and 19% natural gas).
Bozeman consumed nearly 340,000 megawatt hours of electricity in 2018.
Figure 7 shows the how the emissions by sector relates to each of the emissions sources. Note that some
of the smaller emissions sources have been combined in previous graphics. For example, line loss
emissions have been combined with electricity and fugitive natural gas emissions have been combined
with natural gas use emissions.
Other 1%*
Solid
Waste
5%Aviation
Fuel
7%Diesel
7%
Gasoline
24%
Natural
Gas 27%
Electricity
29%
2018 Community
Emissions by Source
*Sources <1% include
propane,wood, and wastewater
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 22
Transportation Emissions
Bozeman residents use a variety of transportation modes, but the city remains a car-centric community.
According to the 2017 Bozeman Transportation Master Plan, nearly 70% of Bozeman commuters drive a
personal vehicle to work. The mean commute time is 14.5 minutes, while the national average is 26
minutes.
Streamline Transit, operated by the Human Resources Development Council, is Bozeman’s major public
transportation service that offers fare-free paratransit, local, and commuter bus service. In fiscal year
2018, Streamline reported 283,714 fare-free rides.
In 2018, 38% of total emissions came from the transportation sector. On-road emissions from passenger
cars and light duty trucks contributed 19% of total emissions. On-road emissions came from heavy duty
commercial hauling, and freight vehicles accounted for 8% of total emissions. In 2018, Bozeman residents,
tourists, commuters, and commercial vehicles drove over 315 million miles in city limits.
Off-road vehicles and equipment, such as lawn mowers, construction equipment, recreational vehicles,
and boats, contributed approximately 4% of total emissions. Aviation emissions, estimated based on fuel
use for locally originating flights from Bozeman-Yellowstone International airport, contributed
approximately 7% of total emissions.
Figure 7. 2018 Energy Flow Diagram of Community Emissions by Sector and Source Figure 7. 2018 energy flow diagram of community emissions by sector and source
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 23
Waste Emissions
Solid waste represents about 5% of our total inventory. In fiscal year 2019, the City of Bozeman Solid
Waste Division serviced approximately 11,800 residential customers with curbside garbage service and
34% of these customers use curbside recycling service. During the same period, residents helped divert
over 3,000 tons of waste through the City’s composting and recycling programs. Composting organic
materials, like yard waste and kitchen scraps, reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to landfilling.
Composting emissions totaled less than 1% in 2018. Private haulers also serve commercial and residential
customers in Bozeman, and the City does not operate an active landfill for household waste. Bozeman’s
waste is hauled to the Logan Landfill, which is operated by the Gallatin Solid Waste Management District;
City of Bozeman waste emissions are estimated based on total municipal solid waste received from
Gallatin County and Bozeman’s population.
Wastewater Emissions
A small amount of methane and nitrous oxide emissions are associated with wastewater treatment
processes. This generated less than 1% of total emissions in 2018.
Comparison Between Inventories
The 2018 emissions sector and source results are relatively consistent with previous inventory years
(Figure 8). Total community emissions have increased by 16% (Table 3) since the baseline year of 2008
and the most recent inventory year of 2018. Notable increases in emissions, as compared to the baseline,
are transportation and commercial emissions. Notable decreases are residential emissions. From 2016 to
2018, there were evident increases in the commercial, residential, and solid waste sectors.
Figure 8. Comparison of annual emissions by sector
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 24
While it is critical for Bozeman to achieve absolute emissions reductions to meet the challenge of climate
change, normalizing for population growth can make greenhouse gas emissions figures more relatable
and help uncover efficiency trends. Table 4 provides a summary of the sectors on a per capita basis.
Overall, 2018 per capita emissions have declined by 15% since 2008 with decreases in all sectors except
transportation. Since 2016, per capita emissions increased by 8%, though there was a slight yet
encouraging decrease in per capita transportation emissions.
Per capita emission trends help Bozeman residents better conceptualize how their local activity fits within
the broader context of greenhouse gas emissions. Overall, residents of Bozeman contributed 12.5 MT
CO2e per person in 2018. To meet our 2025 goals and the intent of the Paris Climate Agreement, Bozeman
residents will need to reduce emissions to between 7.2 to 4.3 MT CO2e per person. The range reflects
potential low and high growth scenarios.
Table 3. Total emissions (metric tons CO2 equivalent) by sector and inventory year
2008 2012 2016 2018 Change since
2008
Change since
2016
Transportation 153,211 172,391 216,608 229,670 50% 6%
Commercial 166,005 210,082 156,894 201,231 21% 28%
Residential 171,457 144,384 121,344 143,910 -16% 19%
Solid Waste 32,232 24,502 26,354 32,025 -1% 22%
Wastewater 921 757 1,204 303 -67% -75%
Total 523,826 552,116 522,404 607,139 16% 16%
Table 4. Per capita emissions (metric tons CO2 equivalent) by sector and year
2008 2012 2016 2018 Change since
2008
Change since
2016
Transportation 4.3 4.6 4.8 4.7 10% -1%
Commercial 4.7 5.6 3.5 4.1 -11% 20%
Residential 4.8 3.8 2.7 3.0 -39% 11%
Solid Waste 0.9 0.7 0.6 0.7 -27% 13%
Wastewater 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 -76% -77%
Total 14.7 14.7 11.5 12.5 -15% 8%
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 25
Factors Influencing Emissions
Both commercial and residential natural gas consumption increased in 2018 and appears to be a primary
reason for the emissions increase in 2018. The winter of 2018 was relatively cold with several days of
record low temperatures, which was coupled with
particularly low natural gas prices. This may have
encouraged residents and businesses to turn up the
thermostat. However, normalizing for both
population and weather shows that energy use per
person per degree days (the total number of degrees
above or below 65° F during a given period) increased
in 2018 relative to the inventory years of 2012 and
2016 (Figure 9). While we cannot provide evidence
that cold weather necessitated more heating and
natural gas use, we can presume that the perception
of extreme cold may have been a factor.
The community indicator of growth is an important
trend to track in relation to greenhouse gas emissions.
In the decade between our baseline inventory of 2008
to 2018, population increased by 37%. The annualized growth rate between 2010 and 2018 was 3.4%
(American Community Survey). Enrollment at Montana State University has increased to 16,900 students
with 3,000 employees. Employment growth in Gallatin County has grown at a rate of 4% per year since
2010, with 80% of this growth occurring in Bozeman.
Key Findings from 2018 Inventory
The 2018 City of Bozeman community GHG inventory showed an emissions value of 607,139 metric tons
of carbon dioxide equivalent (MT CO2e), representing a 16% increase in total emissions from the 2008
baseline and previous inventory year of 2016. Per capita emissions were 12.5 MT CO2e, which is an
increase from 2016, but still 15% below the 2008 baseline. Population growth and an increase in natural
gas use in the residential and commercial sectors were significant contributors to the increase in
emissions.
The majority of Bozeman’s local greenhouse gas emissions can be attributed to residential and
commercial energy and transportation. Within these sectors, the three leading sources of emissions are
electricity, natural gas, and light-duty gasoline vehicles.
Projected Future Emissions
Based on the 2016 baseline inventory, the community GHG emissions were projected to 2050. This
projection is used to understand the magnitude of emissions reductions required to meet the
community’s climate mitigation goals. Bozeman is a rapidly growing community, with 20% population
growth between 2012 and 2016. Because of this tremendous growth and the unknowns with regard to
climate migration and the potential for future pandemic migration, there is considerable uncertainty
around the growth rate looking out to 2050.
Population growth will have a significant impact on the projected GHG emissions for the community. To
best understand the range of emissions likely, population estimates from various sources, including the
Demographic and Real Estate Market Assessment from 2018, were compiled as shown in Figure 10. Using
Figure 9. Energy Use by Inventory Year Normalized for
Population and Weather
0
0.002
0.004
0.006
0.008
0.01
0.012
2012 2016 2018MMBtu/person/degree dayEnergy Use Normalized by
Population and Weather
Figure 9. Energy use by inventory year normalized for
population and weather
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 26
this array of population estimates, minimum and maximum growth scenarios were estimated to
encompass the majority of the data points.
Figure 10. Review of City of Bozeman population growth estimates
To translate this likely population growth to expected GHG emissions, it was assumed that in the business-
as-usual scenario, the patterns of use for energy, energy sources, and equipment efficiency remain
unchanged over this time, keeping the per capita emissions constant. As shown in Figure 11, this leads to
significant uncertainty in the estimated GHG emissions in 2050. For the purposes of this report, we looked
at a high growth rate scenario to ensure the community is able to achieve its GHG reduction goals for any
of the likely population growth forecasts.
Figure 11. Range of projected GHG emissions with business as usual
105,500
70,000
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050Population Estimate Year
Population Estimate
Max
Min
0.5
1.2
0.8
0.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.2
1.4
2016 2050GHG Emissions (MT CO2e)Millions
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 27
EMISSIONS MITIGATION GOAL PROGRESS & KEY MILESTONES
To establish a pathway to achieve Bozeman’s climate mitigation goals, it is necessary to look at both the
potential magnitude of impact of each solution and the sequencing of solutions. In terms of sequencing,
this plan focuses on applying efficiency opportunities to reduce overall energy needs first, followed by
renewable energy generation, and then switching to alternative fuel sources. While these solutions work
in tandem, reducing overall energy needs first will help ensure that renewable energy and fuel-switching
efforts are appropriately scaled.
Efficiency Solutions
Solutions that reduce the community’s overall energy demand through improving efficiency of existing
buildings, vehicles, equipment, or thoughtfully planning community growth should be implemented first.
By reducing the community’s energy demand, the amount of energy that must be produced through
renewable energy generation is reduced. This improves the feasibility of conversion to 100% renewable
energy as well as reduces the investment in infrastructure required to meet the community’s energy
needs. Solutions considered to be efficiency solutions are:
• Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
• Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling, and Use of Transit
• Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
Renewable Energy Generation
These solutions focus on meeting the community’s energy needs through clean energy sources and
include:
• Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
• Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
• Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
All three of these solutions work together to meet the community’s clean energy needs. With efficiency
of scale, the utility can generally provide the lowest cost clean energy generation. Over time, this will
provide the largest source of clean energy for the community. It does take time for the utility to convert
its generation to clean sources while ensuring that utility rates do not cause undue burden on vulnerable
populations. Community participation in green power programs can help demonstrate the City’s desire
for more renewable energy and enable the utility to install clean generation more quickly than would
otherwise be feasible. Distributed generation provides the smallest portion of electricity to the
community but is an important tool for improving resiliency. These systems can provide back-up power
to critical buildings in the case of a power outage or natural disaster.
Fuel Switching
For some GHG emissions sources, and with today’s technology, there are no clean alternatives for these
fuels. In this case, the source of power for these uses can be switched to electricity which is generated
through clean sources to eliminate these emissions. Fuel switching solutions include:
• Solution C. Electrify Buildings
• Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 28
Potential Emissions Reduction by Solution
To understand the range of emissions reduction potential from each solution, the expected reduction
potential from each strategy through existing Bozeman efforts was compared to top performing
communities from across the country. Stakeholder input was used to refine this range of possible
emissions to reflect the probable potential reduction for Bozeman.
In Figure 12, the colored bars indicate the range of potential impact for each solution in Bozeman. The
low end of that range is what the emissions reduction might be if existing initiatives continue at current
levels of engagement and the high end is the maximum emissions reduction that could be expected from
that strategy. The grey bars extending beyond the expected range shows the expected emissions from
the best-case scenario, which may not be practical or feasible in Bozeman based on local factors or
conditions (e.g., state regulations, or growth forecasts) or current technology. This analysis is used to
break the solutions into categories based on their expected impact on Bozeman’s GHG emissions as shown
below.
Please note that this analysis is used to inform scenario modeling and does not consider interaction
between strategies. For detailed information on this analysis and scenario modeling, please reference
Appendix A. This analysis assumes the maximum growth scenario discussed in the baseline inventory
section.
Figure 12. Emissions reduction potential by solution
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 29
Scenario Modeling
The range of potential impact for each solution shown in Figure 13 as well as the expected rate and timing
of implementation were used to model the most likely scenarios for Bozeman to meet each of solution’s
GHG mitigation goals. The two graphs below show the business as usual emissions projections on the left
and the estimated emissions reduction by focus area in each goal year on the right. Note that the future
solutions section in the 2050 emissions reduction shows that there are some emissions sources for which
there are not currently good solutions to address, such as aviation fuel use and heavy-duty vehicles. It is
expected that between now and 2050 there will be new technologies or policies that can be used to
address these emissions sources.
Figure 13. Projected GHG emissions and anticipated emissions reduction by focus area
For more detailed information on the contributions of each solution, see the corresponding chapter. The
details of each goal scenario are shown in Appendix A: Analysis Summary, Table 13, and key takeaways
for each goal year are outlined in the following sections.
Carbon Neutral by 2050
Community GHG Emissions
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 30
26% reduction in GHG emissions by 2025 (below 2008)
To meet the community’s commitment to uphold the Paris agreement, swift action will be required on
key mitigation strategies that can be implemented over the next 5 years, including encouraging
NorthWestern Energy to advance new utility-scale clean energy and to develop a green tariff program
that together provide 204 million kWh, or 40% of the projected community’s electricity use, above and
beyond the 280 million kWh clean electricity delivered to the City via the utility’s current generation mix.
These strategies are supported by improving efficiency in new and existing buildings, as well as distributed
renewable electricity generation (16 million kWh). Energy efficiency improvements in existing buildings
and rooftop or community solar have the potential to be a major contributor to meeting Bozeman’s
sustainability goals, but the capital improvements necessary cannot be implemented as quickly as other
strategies. The community should target about 2% energy savings from existing building efficiency
programs each year.
There will also be lesser contributions from a variety of other solutions. While these solutions are not as
readily scalable to meet the 2025 goal, it is important to start working on these solutions to set the
community up for success on future goals.
2025 Climate Goal
26% reduction in GHG emissions by 2025 (compared to 2008)
2025 Goal: Reduce Emissions to 388,000 MT CO2e Primary mitigation solutions
• Electricity Savings: 126,000,000 kWh
• Additional Clean Electricity Production:
220,000,000 kWh
• Natural Gas Savings: 6,900,000 therms
• Gasoline Savings: 4,400,000 gal
• Other Emissions Reductions: 8,100 MT CO2e
• Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
• Develop and Promote Utility Green Power
Programs
Secondary mitigation solutions
• Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
• Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
Total GHG Emissions Reduction: 319,000 MT CO2e*
Supporting or long-term mitigation solutions
• Increase Community-Based Distributed
Renewable Energy
• Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and
Use of Transit
• Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
• Limit Emissions from Air Travel
• Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero
Waste Community
2008 Community GHG Emissions: 524,000 MT CO2e
* As compared to the 2025 business-as-usual projection
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 31
100% net clean electricity by 2030
The next milestone set by the City is to supply the community electricity needs with 100% net clean
electricity by 2030. To meet this milestone, NorthWestern Energy will need to continue to meet its
emissions reduction targets and the community will need to continue to advocate to NorthWestern
Energy to increase the percentage of utility-scale clean energy and to develop and grow a green tariff
program. To meet the City’s goals, the total grid delivered clean energy must be at least 484 million kWh
in 2025 and 478 million kWh by 2030. These values include the 280 million kWh clean electricity delivered
to the City via the Utility’s current generation mix. The energy efficiency improvements for existing
buildings need to continue at the rate of 2% energy savings across sectors each year.
High performing new construction is also important to ensure that new growth is as efficient as possible.
Housing and commercial building space projections from the Bozeman Community Plan estimate 12,700
new homes (an average of 450 new homes per year), and 6.3 million square feet of non-residential
construction demand through the year 2045.
Transportation emissions reduction measures required to keep the community on track to meet their
2050 emissions reduction goals will increase the demand for renewable electricity as more of the
community fleet is electrified. This additional electrical load has been accounted for in the required
renewable electricity generation calculations.
2030 Climate Goal
100% net clean electricity by 2030
2030 Electricity Emissions Goal: Net Zero MT CO2e Primary mitigation solutions
•Business-as-Usual Electricity Use: 712,000,000
kWh
•Additional electricity use from electric
vehicles: 19,000,000 kWh
•Electricity Efficiency Savings: 213,000,000 kWh
•Clean Energy Production
o Baseline: 280,000,000 kWh
o Additional: 238,000,000 kWh
•Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
•Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
•Develop and Promote Utility Green Power
Programs
Secondary mitigation solutions
•none
Net Carbon-based Electricity Use: 0 kWh Supporting or long-term mitigation solutions
•Achieve Net Zero New Construction
•Increase Community-Based Distributed
Renewable Energy
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 32
Carbon Neutral by 2050
To meet the community’s commitment to be carbon neutral by 2050, the community will need to
transition natural gas used in buildings for heating and cooking to electric appliances and 100% renewable
electricity. Likewise, a nearly complete transition of personal passenger and fleet vehicles to electric
vehicles will be required between 2030 and 2050. Even so, scenario modeling indicates certain harder to
reach portions of the GHG emissions inventory that will require some combination of future technologies,
carbon sequestration opportunities, or carbon offsets to achieve the goal to become a carbon neutral
community by 2050. These harder to reach areas include emissions from airline fuel use, heavy duty trucks
and equipment not currently conducive to electrification, and energy storage.
2050 Climate Goal
Carbon neutral by 2050
2050 Emissions Goal: Net Zero MT CO2e Primary mitigation solutions
• Electricity Savings: 750,000,000 kWh
• Additional Clean Energy Production:
386,000,000 kWh
• Natural Gas Savings: 50,400,000 therms
• Gasoline Savings: 32,000,000 gal
• Other Emissions Reductions: 48,200 MT CO2e
• Future Solutions: 113,000 MT CO2e
• Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
• Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
• Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Secondary mitigation solutions
• Achieve Net Zero New Construction
• Electrify Buildings
• Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and
Use of Transit
Total GHG Emissions Reduction: 1,218,000 MT
CO2e
Supporting mitigation solutions
• Develop and Promote Utility Green Power
Programs
• Increase Community-Based Distributed
Renewable Energy
• Limit Emissions from Air Travel
• Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero
Waste Community
Business-as-Usual: 1,218,000 MTCO2e
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 33
RESILIENCY GOAL CONTRIBUTIONS
This table illustrates which solutions connect with
and help advance the community’s resiliency
goals. Shaded cells indicate that the solution
provides direct benefits to support the goal.
RESILIENCY GOALS Conserve natural resources Harden infrastructure to natural disaster Increase social cohesion Mitigate property and economic losses Protect human health Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing
Buildings
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New
Construction
Solution C. Electrify Buildings
Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green
Power Programs
Solution F. Increase Community-Based
Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development
Patterns
Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of
Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural
Hazards
Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and
Community Preparedness
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling,
Carpooling and Use of Transit
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy
and Zero Waste Community
Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water
Resources
Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to
Sequester Carbon
Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal Contributions 34
CHAPTER 3:
Focus Areas,
Solutions & Actions
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Scenario Modeling
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 35
CHAPTER 3: FOCUS AREAS, SOLUTIONS & ACTIONS
FOCUS AREA 1. HEALTHY, ADAPTIVE & EFFICIENT BUILDINGS
More than half of Bozeman’s greenhouse gas emissions
come from energy use in buildings. Specifically, building
energy use comprised 57% of emissions in 2018, with 33%
from Bozeman’s commercial buildings, and another 24%
from residential buildings. While efficiency of the
residential and commercial sectors is improving over time
through more efficient building codes, more can be done to
decrease emissions from existing buildings across the
community. Improvements to building envelopes and
energy systems can provide myriad benefits, such as
enhancing building performance, stabilizing utility bills,
improving comfort and safety of building occupants, and
adapting to future climate conditions.
As a rapidly growing community, new construction
threatens progress made on reducing overall building-
related greenhouse gas emissions if not built efficiently.
According to the 2018 Demographic and Real Estate Market
Assessment, there is an estimated demand for 12,700 new
housing units and 6.3 million square feet of new commercial
space in Bozeman through 2045. By ensuring that new
buildings are constructed efficiently and ready to adapt to changing technologies, Bozeman can help make
sure that new buildings are helping the community achieve its emissions reduction and resiliency goals.
These solutions emphasize reductions in energy-related emissions from existing and future buildings by
prioritizing energy efficiency as a primary objective, supported by converting natural gas consumption of
buildings to electricity where feasible and appropriate. To meet the GHG emissions goals, the community
will need to:
•Solution A. Improve the Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Maintain a concerted effort to improve efficiency of existing buildings over the 30-year planning
horizon, including deep energy retrofits. The energy savings target should be 2% year over year
energy savings from existing buildings.
•Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
Ramp up to 100% of new buildings being net zero energy by 2030.
RELATED PLANS & STUDIES
•Bozeman Community Plan
• NorthWestern Energy Electric
Supply Resource Procurement
Plan
• Climate Vulnerability
Assessment and Resilience
Strategy
•Downtown Bozeman
Improvement Plan
• Community Greenhouse Gas
Emissions Report
• Municipal Greenhouse Gas
Emissions Report
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Scenario Modeling
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 36
• Solution C. Electrify Buildings
Focus on electrification of building heating and cooking loads in tandem with pursuing renewable
energy targets. Future technologies will be required to eliminate any natural gas loads that cannot
be electrified with current technologies.
Detailed energy savings targets for each goal year are shown in Table 5.
Figure 14. Projected building GHG reductions by solution
Table 5. Projected buildings solution mitigation targets
Target Target Target
Solution Metric (annual savings)
2025
Paris Accord
2030
100% Net Clean
Electricity
2050
Carbon Neutral
Solution A. Improve
Efficiency of Existing
Buildings
Electricity (kWh) 75 million 149 million 447 million
Natural Gas (therms) 4.2 million 8.4 million 25 million
Solution B. Achieve
Net Zero Energy New
Construction
Electricity (kWh) 51 million 64 million 303 million
Natural Gas (therms) 2.7 million 3.4 million 16.2 million
Solution C. Electrify
Buildings
Electricity (kWh) 0 0 -269 million
Natural Gas (therms) 0 0 9.2 million
Carbon Neutral
by 2050
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 37
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
This solution emphasizes
investment in existing buildings to
improve energy and water
efficiency, as well as building
comfort and performance. An
energy or water audit, especially
one with thermal imaging, can be
a great first step to help identify
and prioritize efficiency
improvement opportunities.
Some efficiency improvements
may be simple do-it-yourself
quick fixes, while others may
require more costly investments
and renovations.
Many efficiency projects generate
a positive cash flow and have a
simple payback of less than five
years. Numerous technologies
exist to help building owners and
occupants monitor utility
consumption and automate
building systems. Energy
efficiency investments and
technologies present tremendous
opportunities for workforce
development and job training,
further bolstering the economy.
Various tax credit, rebate, and incentive programs exist at the local, utility, state, and federal levels to
support efficiency improvements. However, the landscape of financial resources and incentives can be
confusing for customers to navigate and access. Bozeman’s electric and natural gas utility provider,
NorthWestern Energy, offers some limited energy audit/appraisal programs for their residential and
business customers. Utility rate structures and time-of-use pricing (paying a different price per kWh
depending on when the energy is consumed) can be another financial mechanism to discourage high
utility consumption at certain times or thresholds.
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 38
From an equity perspective, it is essential to recognize that many utility customers
experience cost burden (i.e., have difficulty paying bills) and bitter cold Montana winters can
make heating a lifesaving necessity. While such customers may implement efficient practices
out of necessity, they may be unable to make costly efficiency investments, or may
encounter challenges with time-of-use utility rate structures. Another important equity
consideration is the fact that the costs and benefits of efficiency improvements are not
always fairly distributed between owners and tenants.
Health and well-being benefits associated with enhanced building performance can include
improved indoor air quality and occupant comfort. All energy efficiency improvements
should be coupled with ventilation measures to avoid negative impacts on indoor air quality.
The City of Bozeman can lead by example by planning, financing, and implementing energy
and water efficiency improvements across municipal facilities and operations. The City can
also continue to lead education and outreach efforts to help share efficiency information
and resources with the community.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s greenhouse gas mitigation goals, while also providing
supporting resiliency benefits.
Emissions Reduction Benefits Resiliency Benefits
This is a secondary mitigation
solution to achieve the 2025 goal
and primary solution to achieve
the 2030 and 2050 goals.
Emission source(s) impacted
include:
• Electricity
• Natural Gas
• Conserve natural resources
• Strengthen infrastructure to
natural disaster
• Protect human health
Related Solutions
• Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
• Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
• Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 39
Action 1.A.1. Increase Energy Efficiency at City Facilities
To advance our goal of 26% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (compared to 2008 levels) by 2025,
the City will identify and implement efficiency improvements in all City facilities through comprehensive
energy audits and energy efficiency upgrades. Energy Service Performance Contracts (ESPC) may be used
to help finance and install energy conservation and renewable energy projects at City-owned buildings
and properties.
The City has already completed energy audits and Facility Condition Inventories, as well as an ESPC
completed in 2015 that included an LED retrofit of 190 city-owned and metered streetlights and an LED
upgrade in the Bridger Parking Garage. Individual solar photovoltaic installations, lighting upgrades, and
other energy projects continue to be initiated by multiple City departments as opportunities arise, but a
comprehensive ESPC approach across the entire City will help maximize efficiency, speed project
deployment, and link efficiency, production, and energy storage in new ways.
While retrofitting involves replacing outdated equipment, retro-commissioning focuses on improving the
efficiency of what is already in place. Using City building benchmarking (measuring energy performance
against past usage or other buildings’ energy usage) and energy consumption trends, the City will fine-
tune existing buildings and systems in order to make them operate optimally and more efficiently through
scheduling, sequencing, controls programming, optimizing set points, and equipment maintenance.
Retro-commissioning can save energy and money, while also extending the service life of equipment.
In preparation for our carbon neutrality goal, the City will adopt ambitious high-performance net zero
energy construction standards for all new or major renovations for City facilities. This standard should
incorporate life cycle analysis (LCA) during the development or redevelopment of all municipal facilities,
such as the standards established in the building life-cycle impact reduction credit available through the
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building rating system.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman • 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Establish building
energy benchmarking
• Improve building
energy use intensity
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 40
Action 1.A.2. Use Data and Price Signals to Advance Energy Efficiency
Customer access to data can be a powerful tool to drive energy conservation and reduce peak demand.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) refers to meters, communication networks, and data
management systems that collect, transmit, and record electricity consumption data in daily or shorter
intervals. More timely and granular data provides operational benefits to utilities, and can be used to
engage, motivate, and reward customers.
AMI data alone does not necessarily lead to energy savings. Data paired with customer engagement tools,
time-of-use (TOU) pricing, and programs with incentives that motivate and support customers are needed
to change when and how customers use energy. A 2017 study of 50 utilities with TOU pricing mechanisms
found an average peak demand reduction of 16% and an average reduction in overall consumption of
over 2%. Utilities that offered TOU pricing plus peak-time rebates realized an overall consumption
reduction of over 7% (Gold, 2020).
NorthWestern Energy is in the process of deploying AMI in its South Dakota service area and plans to
extend this service to its Montana service area beginning in 2021. The City of Bozeman will coordinate
with NorthWestern Energy and encourage early deployment of AMI for Bozeman residents, as well as
encourage NorthWestern Energy to couple AMI with real-time resource consumption and generation
source information for their customers. Reducing peak demand should be a priority in order to address
NorthWestern Energy’s peak load challenges referenced in the 2019 Electricity Supply Resource
Procurement Plan and help eliminate the need for costly investment in additional fossil fuel generation.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • NorthWestern Energy
• City of Bozeman
• Potential third-party data
analyst (e.g., WattTime)
• 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• % installation of
advanced metering
infrastructure
• Establishment of a time-
of-use rate designed to
offset utility peak
demand
• % reduction of peak
energy demand
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 41
Action 1.A.3. Expand Energy Efficiency Information and Resources for Private Property
In support of Advanced Metering Infrastructure and time-of-use rates, the utility, City, and numerous
community partners can provide general outreach, social marketing, and education regarding energy
appraisals, energy and water efficiency rebates, energy efficiency tips, and strategies to avoid peak energy
demand. The city and its partners can create a conversation around the critical role of smaller homes and
apartments, as well as the size, number, and efficiency of appliances, in reducing overall energy use.
Targeted outreach to low-income residents, renters, and residents living in mobile homes and older
homes represents an important segment of the Bozeman community and each population requires
customized recommendations. Possible opportunities to explore include working with Montana State
University to develop a curriculum to engage and inform students at they move off campus or training
student “energy squads” to assist with basic rental retrofits. Using technology such as aerial thermal
imaging could map high energy use hotspots and energy efficiency opportunity zones.
Improving the conversion rate from commercial and residential energy appraisals to execution and
completion of energy upgrades is a wide-spread challenge. The City and NorthWestern Energy should
partner on innovative strategies to improve this conversion rate. One successful model involves
partnering with an energy service provider to provide turn-key service from the energy appraisal to on-
bill financing to contractor services for energy upgrades. With partners such as the Montana State
University Extension Montana Weatherization Center, Bozeman could pilot an energy service provider
training and certification program.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• NorthWestern Energy
• Human Resource
Development Council
• Montana State University
• Montana Weatherization
Training Center
• Southwest Montana Building
Industry Association
• Montana Department of
Environmental Quality
Energy Office
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Reduced peak
energy demand
• Average energy use
per household
• Increase audit to
retrofit conversion
rate
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 42
Action 1.A.4. Establish an Energy and Water Benchmarking Standard for Commercial Buildings
With 33% of Bozeman’s greenhouse gas emissions generated from commercial buildings, it remains a
priority to advance efficiency in this sector. Building energy benchmarking tracks a building’s energy
performance over time and allows for transparent comparison of performance relative to other similar
buildings or relative to modeled simulations of reference buildings built to a specific energy code. This
comparison helps identify opportunities for technological and operational energy efficiency
improvements. Benchmarking is useful for local governments to facilitate energy and water use
accounting, comparing a building’s energy and water use to similar buildings to assess opportunities for
improvement, and quantifying or verifying energy savings. Across many commercial building markets, the
practice has become standard operating procedure as energy costs and associated sustainability issues
have raised awareness around the importance of energy management. Benchmarking can help ensure
that building systems, such as mechanical, electrical, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, are
operating at optimal efficiency as intended by building architects and engineers. Retro-commissioning can
also help extend the life of existing systems, defer expensive upgrades, and ensure timely identification
of energy and water efficiency opportunities. Disclosure and data transparency enable future policy
creation and enhance decision-making from both public and private entities. Social marketing,
recognition, and incentives are all tools that would help accelerate benchmarking and retro-
commissioning.
Using Department of Energy or Environmental Protection Agency benchmarking tools, the City should
partner with NorthWestern Energy, the MT Energy Office, Montana State University, the Montana
Weatherization Center, commercial and multi-family building owners and tenants, the Bozeman Chamber
of Commerce, the outdoor industry, financial institutions, and others to develop a “better buildings
challenge” focused on energy and water efficiency policy to require annual benchmarking and energy use
disclosure for large commercial buildings. The program would initially be piloted for government and
institutional buildings.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• NorthWestern Energy
• MT Energy Office
• Montana State University
• Montana Weatherization Center
• Commercial and Multi-family
building owners and tenants
• Chamber of Commerce
• Bozeman Outdoor Industry
• Financial Institutions
• 6.1 Clean Water
Supplies
• 6.3 Climate Action
• % of commercial
buildings complying
with benchmarking
policy
• % of reporting
buildings that
achieve an ENERGY
STAR score >75
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 43
Action 1.A.5. Require Home Energy and Water Use Labeling at Time of Listing
Energy and water bills are a significant household expense, and yet prospective home buyers and renters
are typically unable to factor this information into their decision making. Utility data is rarely provided
unless a prospective buyer specifically requests it. A home energy label provides information about a
property's energy consumption and costs, plus recommendations for cost-effective energy saving
improvements. Like a snack's nutrition label or a car's MPG rating, it reveals valuable and comparable
information not otherwise apparent to consumers.
Cities across the U.S. are working to adopt energy labeling and disclosure policies for residential properties
to better inform major consumer investment decisions and provide a critical foundation for driving energy
efficiency upgrades that improve our building stock and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Residential
energy use accounts for 24% of the community’s 2018 greenhouse gas emissions. The City will explore a
policy for Bozeman under which home sellers would disclose home energy labels to real estate agents and
potential buyers through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).
The Department of Energy’s Home Energy Score and the U.S. EPA WaterSense Labeled Home are practical
tools for implementing home energy and water labeling programs. Such programs improve consumer
protection through information transparency and create data to measure progress toward climate and
water efficiency goals. Home sellers can increase the market value of their home while buyers and renters
can better compare options in terms of energy performance and costs and consider financing options for
upgrades. New jobs in energy assessments and contracting are created in the local economy. According
to the Department of Energy’s Better Building’s Initiative, energy efficient certified homes sell faster and
for 4 to 6% more.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Gallatin Association of Realtors
• Southwest Montana Building
Industry Association
• NorthWestern Energy
• Chamber of Commerce
• Montana State University-Montana
Weatherization Center
• Financial Institutions
• 1.4 Business and
Institutional
Partnerships
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Implementation of
energy use
disclosure policy
• Number of days on
market for high
performance
properties
Figure 15. Example from the Dept. of Energy’s Home Energy Score Program
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 44
Action 1.A.6. Promote Energy Efficiency Financing and Investment
Today local governments are on the front lines when it comes to handling the COVID-19 pandemic,
growing civil unrest, and severe weather events. Local leadership is necessary to meet local needs,
including the task of recovery and job creation. State and local actors around the country are doing their
part to help spur investment and job creation with public and private investment in clean infrastructure
and energy efficiency.
The availability of low-cost financing is a critical factor for widespread deployment of energy efficiency
and renewable energy. Green Banks are one way to help secure low-cost capital for clean energy projects,
such as solar PV or energy efficiency upgrades, at favorable rates and terms. Green Bank products may be
targeted at end users such as a home, business, or other finance providers, such as retail and investment
banks. Examples include residential solar loan and lease programs, credit support mechanisms for energy
efficiency and solar, and commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) programs that support a
variety of energy conservation measures. Through such products, Green Banks can help secure private
capital by multiple diverse means. According to the National Renewable Energy Lab, as of 2016, the most
advanced Green Banks in the country in Connecticut and New York have collectively invested $575 billion
in total clean energy investment. These investments reportedly spur private sector investment into
projects by three to six times the amount of public sector dollars.
Creating and marketing a specific local program to encourage investments in residential and commercial
properties will provide an incentive for homeowners and business owners to make the capital investments
in their properties necessary to help achieve our building energy reduction goals. City Economic
Development and Sustainability Divisions can collaborate with area lenders via Request for Proposals or
by setting loan rates and standards to create a low-interest loan program (fixed or adjustable rate) for
building energy efficiency, electrification, or installation of solar or geothermal systems. Once a brand
name has been developed, marketing the program can be co-funded and executed by the City of Bozeman
and participating institutions.
State and local governments have established Green Banks and low-interest loan programs under a
variety of different structures, legislative directives, and funding sources. The City of Bozeman will work
with area financial institutions to develop a county-wide low-interest loan program to facilitate financing
of energy efficiency and renewable energy systems. Through local and regional economic development
entities, the City will build awareness and leverage partnerships to establish a statewide Montana Green
Bank. Advancement of supporting tools such as utility on-bill financing, allocation of Universal System
Benefit funds, and the authorization of commercial and residential PACE will aid in the establishment of a
Montana Green Bank and county-wide low-interest loan program.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan
Alignment Performance Measure
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Local Financial Institutions
• NorthWestern Energy
• Prospera Business Network
• MT Building Industry Association
• Montana Legislature
• 2.1 Business
Growth
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Establishment of a
county-wide low-
interest loan program
• Establishment of a
Montana Green Bank
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 45
Action 1.A.7. Create a Rental Registry Program to Advance Renter Safety and Energy and Water
Efficiency
With over 19,000 housing units in Bozeman, only 44% are owner occupied. Where tenants are responsible
for energy and utility operating costs in addition to the monthly rent, owners have little incentive to invest
in energy and water efficiency capital improvements because the tenant will be the sole beneficiary of
the reduced operating costs. Where the tenant’s monthly rent includes a predetermined amount to cover
energy and utility operating costs, tenants have little incentive to save energy and water because the
owner receives the benefits of those efforts. This split incentive between landlords and tenants makes
this a particularly difficult sector in which to implement energy and water efficiency. With a consistently
low rental vacancy rate in Bozeman, the market is unlikely to create the circumstances in which
information, such as an audit or Home Energy Score, will lead to energy upgrades in rental properties.
The City will work with partners to develop consumer resources and develop a voluntary pathway to
gradually phase in a residential renter safety and energy and water efficiency program that requires rental
properties to meet minimum energy efficiency standards to receive a rental license. Such a program
should be designed within a licensing program that complies with the limitations of the Landlord Tenant
Act. Program specifications should be coordinated with existing and new utility incentives for lighting
upgrades, water heaters and other appliances, plumbing fixtures, roof insulation, air sealing, and HVAC
inspection and maintenance. Ideally, the program should be coupled with financing options, such as on-
bill financing, residential Property Assessed Clean Energy, or Green Bank financing.
Performing an energy and water upgrade on a rental property (if required) can result in additional value
streams for the owner including increased rent, higher tenant retention, and higher resale value. For the
tenants, they are likely to experience safer, more comfortable living conditions and more affordable utility
costs.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 3 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• MSU Off-Campus Living Housing
Program
• Human Resource Development
Council
• Montana State University
• Montana Weatherization
Training Center
• Montana Landlords Association
• Financial Institutions
• 1.4 Business and
Institutional
Partnerships
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• % of participating
rental properties in
outreach program
• % of participating
rental properties
completing energy
upgrades
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 46
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
This solution focuses on the design and construction of high-performance buildings. A Net Zero Energy
(NZE) building is one with zero net energy consumption, typically on an annual basis. In other words, the
total amount of energy used by the building is equal to (or even less than) the amount of on-site
renewable energy generated. The most efficient and cost-effective pathway to achieve NZE is through
new construction; however, major renovation projects can present NZE opportunities as well. Even in
cases where on-site renewable energy is not feasible, Net Zero Energy Ready (NZER) or high-performance
construction helps advance the intent of this solution by reducing overall energy demand and
consumption.
Since Bozeman is a rapidly growing community, new building efficiency will play an important role in
meeting the community’s climate goals. The magnitude of impact on emissions reductions will be heavily
dependent on community growth rate, but this solution is important to couple with energy efficiency in
existing buildings so that emissions from all buildings (existing and future) are addressed.
The State of Montana is expected to adopt the 2018 International Building Code’s International Energy
Efficiency Code (with amendments) by the end of 2020. All new construction must comply with those
code requirements and communities cannot adopt code requirements that are more stringent than the
state adopted code. NZE construction is considered an “above code” opportunity, which can be
encouraged with voluntary incentives, but not required. There are myriad resources available to inform
NZE construction and many approaches align with third-party building certification programs, such as the
U.S. Department of Energy’s Zero Energy Ready certification program and Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED) certification. There are various ways to incentivize NZE construction,
including permit fee reductions, expediting permitting processes, utility programs and rebates, tax credits,
and low-interest loans. Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing is not currently available as a
financing mechanism in Montana but may be considered for commercial buildings in future State
legislative sessions.
Constructing new buildings to higher efficiency standards requires upfront capital investments from the
developer, but the investments are repaid in reduced utility costs over the life of the home or building. A
2019 study by the Rocky Mountain Institute found the estimated incremental cost for a Net Zero Ready
home in Bozeman was 2.2% with a payback of 4.6 years for homes with electric heating systems and 7.6
years for homes with natural gas heating systems (Rocky Mountain Institute, 2019). Similar assumptions
likely apply to commercial buildings, but building loads vary more widely by building use type.
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 47
Benefits of NZE construction include but are not limited to efficient use of energy, low and
consistent energy bills, improved occupant comfort, less reliability on the electric grid,
increased resale values, and tenant attraction. High efficiency new construction often results
in improved indoor air quality when the building is properly ventilated.
Some of the challenges of NZE construction, such as upfront costs and finding skilled
designers and builders, can be overcome with measures such as rebates, incentives, and
training and education programs. Additional equity considerations include the fact that new
construction of high-performing buildings may be out of reach for lower-income community
members. Similarly, the potential costs to retrofit existing buildings to NZE levels need to be
carefully considered.
In terms of municipal assets, the City of Bozeman can lead by example by constructing new
facilities to NZE standards and training the development community in these design and
construction practices.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s greenhouse gas mitigation goals, while also providing
supporting resiliency benefits.
Emissions Reduction Benefits
Resiliency Benefits
This is a supporting mitigation
solution to achieve the 2025 and
2030 goals and secondary
solution to achieve the 2050 goal.
Emission sources impacted
include:
• Electricity
• Natural Gas
• Conserve natural resources
• Strengthen infrastructure
• Protect human health
Related Solutions
• Solution C. Electrify Buildings
• Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
• Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
• Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 48
Action 1.B.1 Support High Performance Building Resources and Training for the Development
Community
While state code determines minimum building standards for all construction, the development
community in Bozeman is largely responsible for whether buildings are built beyond the minimum
standard. By providing high-performance building resources and training, the City can engage the
development community in shifting from current baseline construction practices to more efficient
buildings.
There are widespread resources available for the design and construction of high-performance buildings.
The City of Bozeman will partner to develop and provide guidance for developers regarding energy and
water efficient design (e.g., passive design, energy efficient building materials, low-carbon building
materials, water efficient plumbing fixtures, etc.) and develop a pilot program to train builders and
contractors on net zero energy construction best practices.
The City will partner with development community stakeholders such as homeowners’ associations to
identify opportunities to facilitate net zero energy and water efficient building practices through the
development of model covenants. Through educational partnerships, the City will encourage owners of
high-performance and net zero energy buildings to share and market best practices.
Given the incremental costs associated with high-performance buildings, financing must be a
consideration. This will be achieved by partnering with local banks to identify opportunities for providing
lower interest loans and energy efficient mortgages for high performance buildings (see also 1.A.6). High
performance and net zero buildings are more durable and resilient, reducing risk for lenders. Additionally,
promoting targeted financing will create value and recognition of energy efficiency. The City can also
identify partnerships with building material manufacturers to encourage the production, marketing, and
sale of low-carbon and energy efficient building materials.
Within the context of building energy performance, the city will continue to consider building siting and
transportation requirements as important factors in building energy efficiency. The City will continue to
encourage covered bicycle parking, locker facilities for commuters, integration with transit routes, or
redevelopment of an existing site that does not require addition street construction.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Montana Weatherization
Training Center
• Gallatin College
• Southwest Montana Building
Industry Association
• Montana Code Collaborative
• Montana Dept. of Environmental
Quality
• Montana Renewable Energy
Association
• 1.3 Public Agencies
Collaboration
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Number of
trainings hosted
• Number of
participants
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 49
Action 1.B.2. Advocate for Adoption of State-Wide Net Zero Energy Code
While the City of Bozeman cannot require anything more or less stringent than what the state of Montana
adopts, it can advocate for state level policies and regulations that increase building efficiency.
The City will collaborate with other municipalities in the state to advocate for adoption of a statewide
voluntary net zero energy stretch building code. Having a statewide stretch code would provide
consistency across communities and ensure builders don’t have to navigate multiple versions of stretch
code requirements.
The City will advocate for adoption of any necessary health and safety measures (e.g., proper ventilation),
incorporation of solar-ready and electric vehicle-ready construction requirements into state building and
energy codes, and more stringent statewide energy and water efficiency regulations. The City will
encourage manufacturers to disclose the carbon intensity of building materials.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Montana Weatherization
Training Center
• Southwest Montana Building
Industry Association
• Montana Code Collaborative
• Montana Dept. of Environmental
Quality
• Montana Dept. of Labor &
Industry
• 4.2 High Quality
Urban Approach
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Establishment of a
state-wide above-
code building
standard
• Improved energy
efficiency with each
code adoption cycle
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 50
Action 1.B.3. Encourage High Performance Construction for All Publicly Funded Buildings
The City cannot mandate policies for non-
municipal facilities that receive public
funding, but it can encourage and/or
incentivize high performance construction.
The City will partner with other agencies,
such as the Bozeman School District and
Montana State University, to identify
opportunities and mechanisms to upgrade
current facilities and construct new facilities
to incorporate water efficiency and net zero
energy standards. The City will encourage
cost-effective high-performance
construction for other publicly funded
projects, such as affordable housing.
The City of Bozeman has direct control over
the performance of municipal buildings and
will adopt ambitious high-performance NZE
building practices and maximize water
efficiency for City-owned facilities where
feasible (see Action 1.A.1).
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Human Resources
Development Council
• Community Affordable
Housing Advisory Board
• 4.2 High Quality Urban
Approach
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Establishment of high
performance building
ranking criteria in
workforce housing
application
• Number of above-code
affordable housing units
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 51
Action 1.B.4. Analyze and Support Opportunities for District Energy
Heating, cooling, and water heating account for roughly half of global energy consumption (IEA, 2011).
District heating energy systems pipe steam, hot water, or cold water from a centralized plant through a
system of pipes to multiple buildings within a network and can be applied on the scale of neighborhoods
or even a city. District heating is an integrated solution that can support energy efficiency, building
electrification, climate resilience, renewable energy storage, support a green economy, and deep
decarbonization of cities. District heating systems can also produce electricity locally. Renewable energy
can provide high levels of affordable heat and cooling when incorporated into district energy systems
through economies of scale and diversity of supply. District energy plus renewable energy can help
communities achieve 100% renewable energy goals.
The City of Bozeman will develop a plan for City and State support of district energy through avenues
such as district energy in energy efficiency building standards, state tax incentives, Combined Heat and
Power (CHP) and renewable heat incentives, mapping of potential resources, land use planning, and
permitting for heating and cooling infrastructure. The City will explore funding and collaboration models
to study district heating in more detail, including Montana State University’s advanced district energy
case study (NREL, 2020), and coordinate with NorthWestern Energy and other community partners. The
City will highlight replicable business models and build the business case around public-private
partnerships.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Health Care Institutions
• Development Community
• Bozeman Public Schools
• 2.2 Infrastructure
Investments
• 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Development of a plan to
support district energy
systems
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 52
Action 1.B.5. Offer a Voluntary Pathway & Incentives for Above-Code Construction
Building codes are the minimum standard for what is legally allowed to be built, yet the practice of building
“above code” is relatively uncommon. As noted earlier in this chapter, the City of Bozeman is not
permitted to require anything more stringent than the state-adopted code.
Creating a specific designation for superior-performing buildings, the City can encourage the development
community to strive to achieve above-code construction outcomes. By setting the standards for the award
designation, and creating a positive-sounding title for the achievement of the standards, a “Bozeman Net
Zero Hero” building can be marketed by the builder as a model for others to follow.
The City has limited tools to incentivize above-code construction practices. Through a combination of
Planned Unit Development point accumulation, fee waivers and other incentives, developers would be
encouraged to make specific choices that help the City achieve its stated goals. Development code
relaxations and trade-offs must be carefully considered to avoid undesirable outcomes to the built
environment. Such a program would evaluate a number of factors – from neighborhood orientation to
solar installation to net-zero construction – and award the appropriate amount of incentives for achieving
specific benchmarks. Sequencing of a city incentive relative to the developer’s stated deliverables will
require further evaluation.
The City of Bozeman will create a recognition program that bestows a specific designation (e.g., “Bozeman
Net Zero Hero”) on buildings that meet net-zero or other objective standard of energy performance and
market the program to the development and real estate community as a way of distinguishing superior
performing buildings.
Further, the City will develop an incentive program for new construction (commercial and residential) that
encourages all buildings to be designed and constructed to:
• Minimize energy and water use with ultra-low Energy Use Intensity (EUI) or Home Energy
Score
• Maximize solar energy system electricity production to achieve Net Zero Energy (NZE) and
electric vehicle ready
• Encourages passive design and optimizes neighborhood orientation
• Discourages the use of outdoor gas/electric heaters
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 3 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Montana Weatherization
Training Center
• Gallatin College
• Southwest Montana
Building Industry
Association
• Montana Code
Collaborative
• Montana Dept. of
Environmental Quality
• 4.2 High Quality
Urban Approach
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Establishment of a
recognition program
• Establishment of a voluntary
above-code building standard
• % of building permit
applicants voluntarily
participating
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution C. Electrify Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 53
Solution C. Electrify Buildings
This solution emphasizes the conversion of heating equipment and cooking appliances in buildings from
natural gas or propane to electricity. By shifting to electricity, it allows for energy needs to be met through
renewable energy, thus reducing overall emissions from building energy consumption. This solution is
vital to addressing building natural gas use and is an important element to achieve carbon neutrality by
2050.
According to the 2018 American Community Survey 5-year estimates for Bozeman, approximately 10,848
homes (59%) heat their properties with utility gas, 6,786 (37%) heat their homes with electricity, and only
382 homes (roughly 2%) use propane or fuel oil for heating fuel. While there are various appliances and
equipment systems that could be converted to electricity, recommended opportunities to prioritize for
conversion are propane or heating oil systems and all-electric new construction. Other system and
appliance conversions should be considered on a case-by-case basis as not all conversions will be cost-
effective. There is currently a higher fuel cost for electricity, yet electric heating is typically more efficient
than natural gas.
As with building energy efficiency measures, conversion to or installation of building heating and cooking
systems that use electricity rather than natural gas will require capital investment by the building owner
or developer. A 2018 study found that electrification in residential homes for retrofits was not cost-
effective. The exception to this conclusion is that “electrification is cost-effective for customers switching
away from propane or heating oil, for those gas customers who would otherwise need to replace both a
furnace and air conditioner simultaneously, for customers who bundle rooftop solar with electrification,
and for most new home construction” (Billimoria, Guccione, Henchen, & Louis-Prescott, 2018). For this
reason and to provide the greatest GHG emissions reductions, robust implementation of this solution is
recommended after 2030 when the community reaches its 100% renewable electricity goal. At that time,
it is expected that the economics will be more favorable as a 20 to 38% price reduction for air-source heat
pumps and 42 to 48% price reduction for heat pump water heaters is expected by 2050 (National
Renewable Energy Labratory, 2017). Again, we expect similar economics to apply to commercial buildings,
but due to the variation in building load, the economics in commercial spaces is more difficult to model.
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution C. Electrify Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 54
From an equity perspective, some households and businesses may not be able to afford the
capital investment required for equipment and building retrofits. Furthermore, the last
remaining users of natural gas, which may include older homes, commercial buildings, and
lower-income households, should not be left with the financial burden of electrification. This
means that careful attention must be paid so that they are not stuck with increasing natural
gas rates as the number of natural gas customers decline.
Health and well-being considerations associated with electrification of buildings include
improved safety with the reduction in pilot lights needed for natural gas equipment. As
building energy consumption shifts to electricity provided by renewable sources, air quality
improvements will likely ensue. Residential electrification may increase demand for wood
burning stove and compromise local air quality during the winter.
As with improving efficiency and implementing Net Zero Energy practices at City of Bozeman
facilities, there are opportunities for the City to lead by example and test out and pursue
beneficial electrification projects at existing and future City facilities, especially those
facilities with high natural gas or propane consumption.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s greenhouse gas mitigation goals, while also providing some
supporting resiliency benefits.
Emissions Reduction Benefits
Resiliency Benefits
This is a secondary mitigation
solution to achieve the 2050 goal.
Emission sources impacted
include:
• Electricity
• Natural Gas
• Conserve natural resources
• Protect human health
Related Solutions
• Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
• Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
• Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution C. Electrify Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 55
Action 1.C.1. Advance Electrification Upgrades and Conversion Projects for City Facilities
The City has direct influence over is its own municipal facilities. Reducing and eliminating fossil fuel use in
City-owned facilities is one way the City can lead by example with the Bozeman Climate Plan.
The City will convert select City facilities and equipment to all or mostly electric, with the goal of full
electric conversion as technologies advance. The City will also require all-electric new construction for
new City facilities where feasible.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Rocky Mountain Institute
• Montana State University
• NorthWestern Energy
• 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure Choices
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Number of electrification
conversion projects
• % reduction in natural gas
use
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution C. Electrify Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 56
Action 1.C.2. Include an Electrification Component for Above-Code Construction
Building on the goals in Action 1.B.2: Offer a Voluntary Pathway & Incentives for Above-Code
Construction, the City will conduct a feasibility study to explore the implication, costs, and benefits of
electrification for different types of buildings in Bozeman, partner with NorthWestern Energy to
encourage all-electric new construction, and advocate for all-electric new construction requirements in
the stretch code and future building codes. The City will evaluate its engineering standards and
NorthWestern Energy connection standards to determine if new developments are discouraged or
prohibited from installing electric only service, including consideration for ground source energy or district
energy technology requirements.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 3 • City of Bozeman
• NorthWestern Energy
• Montana State University
• Montana Weatherization
Training Center
• Montana Codes
Collaborative
• Montana Dept. of
Environmental Quality
• Montana Dept. of Labor &
Industry
• Southwest Montana
Building Industry
Association
• Human Resources
Development Council
• 4.2 High Quality Urban
Approach
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Adoption of an all-electric
new construction code
• % increase of homes with
electric heating and
appliances
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Solution C. Electrify Buildings
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 57
Action 1.C.3. Support Outreach and Incentives for Electric Appliances and Equipment
While the City of Bozeman cannot require all-electric appliances or equipment in buildings, it has the
ability to educate the community on the health and safety benefits of and encourage installation of all-
electric appliances and equipment in homes and businesses.
The City will develop educational materials to encourage customers to select electric equipment or
appliances where alternatives to gas exist and will incentivize private conversion of natural gas appliances
to electric through avenues such as a bulk purchasing program. The City will partner with homeowners’
associations to explore opportunities to electrify equipment and appliances across neighborhoods. The
City will establish bulk purchase and retrofit programs to help natural gas users transition to all-electric
appliances and equipment. With a robust educational program in place, the City will be positioned to
advocate for appliance electrification within the state building code and explore other available pathways
to accelerate the conversion to all-electric appliances and equipment.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 3 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Montana Weatherization
Training Center
• Human Resources
Development Council
• Community Affordable
Housing Advisory Board
• 1.2 Community
Engagement
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• % Increase of buildings
with electric heating and
appliances
Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 58
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
The following opportunities and considerations summarize how the solutions in this chapter can help
improve resiliency to future climate hazards.
Opportunities Considerations
Extreme Heat
• Reducing energy demands during hot days
can reduce risk of energy shortages.
• Efficient buildings cost less to cool and can
reduce energy cost burden.
• Electrification could reduce system diversity
(by eliminating natural gas), increasing
vulnerability if system is overloaded during a
period of high demand, thus amplifying the
need for energy storage and microgrids.
Flooding
• Reduced risk of damage to natural gas
infrastructure if building stock was fully
electrified.
• Net-zero energy buildings may avoid service
interruptions if powered by onsite renewable
energy.
• Siting of new construction away from flood
prone areas is critical.
Drought & Mountain Snowpack
• High efficiency building design often includes
water conservation measures in addition to
energy efficiency.
• Electrifying buildings will increase demand
for electricity, which is currently associated
with water consumption.
Wildfire
• Efficient buildings are better sealed and
better ventilated, yielding better air quality in
the event of a wildfire.
• Electrified buildings could be more vulnerable
to power disruptions if electricity
infrastructure is damaged.
• Tightly sealed buildings with poor ventilation
could worsen indoor air quality.
Winter Storms
• Efficient buildings cost less to heat and can
reduce energy-burden for low-income
customers.
• Electrifying existing building systems could
increase utility costs depending on timing and
utility rate structures.
• Electrification could reduce system diversity
(by eliminating natural gas), increasing
vulnerability if system is overloaded during a
period of high demand.
• Currently, there may be limitations to cost-
effective electric heating.
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 59
FOCUS AREA 2. RESPONSIBLE & RELIABLE CLEAN ENERGY SUPPLY
NorthWestern Energy is the primary energy utility serving
the Bozeman community, providing electricity and natural
gas to residential, commercial, and some industrial
customers. Some community members also heat or power
their homes and facilities through other energy sources or
technology, including but not limited to propane, wood,
solar, and geothermal. As noted in Chapter 3, more than
half of Bozeman’s GHG emissions come from energy use in
buildings. In 2018 emissions from electricity use alone
accounted for 29% of community GHG emissions. The
solutions in this focus area complement the solutions in
Focus Area 1: Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient buildings that
emphasize energy efficiency and conversion to electric
equipment and solutions. They focus on lowering energy-
related emissions by addressing the energy supplied from
the grid to utility customers, as well as expanding
distributed generation opportunities.
In addition to emphasizing a shift to cleaner energy sources over time, these solutions advance other
important topics and issues such as energy efficiency, access and affordability, electric grid stability and
reliability, a just and equitable transition of the traditional energy economy, and environmental and air
quality.
These solutions are focused on the generation of the required renewable electricity to serve the
community’s energy needs. To meet Bozeman’s climate goals, the community will need to:
• Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
Strongly encourage NorthWestern Energy to meet Bozeman’s goal of 100% net clean electricity
by 2030.
• Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
Collaborate with NorthWestern Energy and stakeholders to introduce a green tariff. This is a key
strategy to meet the City’s aggressive short-term goals.
• Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
Work across the community to increase the adoption of distributed renewable energy on public
and private properties.
RELATED PLANS & STUDIES
• Bozeman Community Plan
• NorthWestern Energy Electric
Supply Resource Procurement
Plan
• Climate Vulnerability
Assessment and Resilience
Strategy
• Community Greenhouse Gas
Emissions Report
• Municipal Greenhouse Gas
Emissions
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 60
As illustrated in Tables 6 and 7, Bozeman will need 503 million kWh of clean electricity in 2025, 519 million
kWh in 2030, and 666 million kWh in 2050 to meet the community’s greenhouse gas emissions mitigation
goals. These electricity consumption projections include the increased electricity use from projected
growth, the anticipated electricity use reduction from implementing efficiency (Solutions A and B), as well
as the increased electricity use from implementing building and vehicle electrification (Solutions C and K).
The projected electricity use will come from a combination of utility-scale clean energy generation
(Solutions D and E) as well as local distributed generation (Solution F). There are two pathways for
renewable energy generation presented in the following subsections. The first represents the no change
pathway where NorthWestern Energy does not add any additional clean energy generation, and the
second represents the pathway where NorthWestern Energy uses additional clean energy generation to
meet and exceed their stated carbon intensity reduction goals and reduced total emissions.
In each case, utility-scale green power programs (Solution E) are used to procure the necessary renewable
energy to allow the City to meet their stated goals. The amount of distributed generation (Solution F) does
not change between pathways and is set to show consistent annual increase in generation capacity to
meet Bozeman’s target in 2050. For more information on calculation methodology, see Appendix A.
Photo: Onsite Energy
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 61
No Additional Utility Renewable Energy Generation
This analysis illustrates the pathway if NorthWestern Energy does not add any additional renewable
energy generation (pathway A).
Figure 16. Projected clean energy GHG reductions by solution (pathway A)
Table 6. Projected clean energy supply solution mitigation targets (pathway A)
Solution Metric (unit)
Target Target Target
2025
Paris Accord
2030
100% Net Clean
Electricity
2050
Carbon Neutral
Total Projected Electricity
Consumption
Electricity Use
(kWh) 503 million 519 million 666 million
Baseline Clean Energy Clean Electricity
(kWh) 281 million 281 million 281 million
Solution D. Increase Utility
Clean Energy Mix
Additional Clean
Electricity (kWh) 0 0 0
Solution E. Develop and
Promote Utility Green Power
Additional Clean
Electricity (kWh) 204 million 198 million 256 million
Solution F. Increase
Community-Based Distributed
Renewable Energy Generation
Additional Clean
Electricity (kWh) 16 million 40 million 130 million
Note: Columns may not add up to the total due to rounding.
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 62
Additional Utility Renewable Energy Generation
This analysis illustrates the pathway where NorthWestern Energy uses additional clean energy
generation to meet and exceed their stated carbon intensity reduction goals8 and reduces total
emissions (pathway B).
Figure 17. Projected clean energy GHG reductions by solution (pathway B)
Table 7. Projected clean energy supply solution mitigation targets (pathway B)
Solution Metric (unit)
Target Target Target
2025
Paris Accord
2030
100% Net Clean
Electricity
2050
Carbon Neutral
Total Projected Electricity
Consumption
Electricity Use
(kWh) 503 million 519 million 666 million
Baseline Clean Energy Clean Electricity
(kWh) 281 million 281 million 281 million
Solution D. Increase Utility
Clean Energy Mix
Additional Clean
Electricity (kWh) 80 million 100 million 306 million
Solution E. Develop and
Promote Utility Green Power
Additional Clean
Electricity (kWh) 124 million 98 million 0
Solution F. Increase
Community-Based Distributed
Renewable Energy Generation
Additional Clean
Electricity (kWh) 16 million 40 million 80 million
8 While carbon intensity is an important component of the 'math' of measuring emissions, it should not be relied
upon - in and of itself - as an indication of progress; therefore, any plan that uses carbon intensity as a sole goal or
metric should be taken with a grain of salt.
Note: Columns may not add up to the total due to rounding.
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 63
Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
This solution emphasizes the role
of utilities in providing energy to
customers and communities.
Because of their large reach and
economies of scale, utility-scale
solutions are often some of the
most transformational and cost-
effective opportunities for
communities to achieve their
climate goals. A utility’s resource
mix typically includes an
assortment of energy generation
sources that are balanced to meet
customer demand.
In 2018, 61% of the energy owned
by NorthWestern Energy for
Montana came from carbon-free
sources, which includes
hydropower (46%), wind (15%),
and solar (<1%) (NorthWestern
Energy, 2019). In 2019,
NorthWestern Energy voluntarily
committed to reducing the
carbon intensity of its electric
portfolio for Montana by 90% by
2045, from a 2010 baseline
(NorthWestern Energy). If the
goal is achieved with new renewable energy generation, this transition has the potential to provide
significant impact and momentum, but will not advance quickly enough to achieve the City’s short-term
goals and my not be sufficient to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
Because renewable energy is not always available when customer energy demand is highest (dark, cold,
still, winter evenings), solar and wind cannot be the sole solution. Clean energy portfolios should include
cost-effective storage to ensure that renewable energy generation can be stored for times when
generation is not available. In addition, well-designed demand response programs and time-of-use rate
design can reduce peak energy demand. Customers can help reduce energy demand at peak times in
evenings (usually about 4pm to 8pm). For example, delaying dishwashers until late evening and moving
other non-essential energy uses to off-peak hours can reduce the peak energy need and allow more
reliance on renewables rather than fossil fuel capacity resources.
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 64
Public-private partnerships have an important role to play in this solution, and innovation and the
willingness of current and future partners to work together across sectors will be necessary to advance
renewable energy adoption.
Equity considerations associated with significant shifts in the utility’s energy generation
portfolio are vast. A rapid transition could potentially cause a rate shock and increase rates,
disproportionately burdening low-income households. Over the long-term, however, costs
may stabilize or decrease, ultimately reducing the energy cost burden for lower-income
households. More analysis is needed to accurately quantify these costs. Furthermore, the
workforce associated with non-renewable energy production may experience declining
employment opportunities, meaning that careful planning to provide a just transition for
that workforce is essential.
Health and well-being opportunities associated with this solution include improved air
quality with the reduction in burning of fossil fuels. Over time, non-renewable energy
facilities may need to be decommissioned, leading to additional environmental and human
health benefits, as well as employment opportunities.
Whether advancing new clean energy resources or other related efforts focused on energy
efficiency and electrification, the City will advance a triple bottom line approach based on
social, environmental, and economic benefits to inform utility partnership efforts.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s greenhouse gas mitigation goals, while also providing some
supporting resiliency benefits.
Emissions Reduction Benefits
Resiliency Benefits
This is a primary mitigation
solution to achieve the 2025,
2030, and 2050 goals.
Emission sources impacted
include:
• Electricity
• Conserve natural resources
• Strengthen infrastructure to
natural disaster
• Protect human health
Related Solutions
• Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
• Solution C. Electrify Buildings
• Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
• Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 65
Action 2.D.1. Complete a 100% Net Clean Electricity Community Feasibility Study
With approximately 60% of Bozeman’s grid energy sourced
from clean resources, Bozeman is positioned to achieve
100% net clean energy by 2030. To help map the pathway,
the City will seek interlocal partnerships with interested
jurisdictions to complete an independent economic analysis
focused on the rate implications and environmental benefits
of pursuing utility-scale clean energy solutions. The scope of
the study will include an assessment of the potential cost of
available policy mechanisms, including 1) the creation of a
collaborative community-wide renewable energy program,
modeled after Utah’s Community Renewable Energy Act (HB
411), allowing communities to choose to be supplied with 100% net clean electricity with new renewable
energy sourced through the utility and 2) a Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) program, which allows
local governments to procure power from an alternative supplier while the utility still provides
transmission, distribution, and billing services in regulated electric markets, like Montana. Both options
would most likely require state enabling legislation.
Under a community-wide renewable energy program, NorthWestern Energy and interested communities
would collaborate with stakeholders to help drive the path to 100% clean energy by taking advantage of
low-cost renewable energy to meet growing customer demand. Under the unique Utah model, HB 411
directs the Public Service Commission to implement a 100% renewable plan for communities and their
customers who opt into the program. It also provides legislative guidance for customer participation and
key opt-out provisions for customers who do not wish to participate.
Under Community Choice Aggregation (CCA), local governmental entities (or a contracted third party)
procure electricity on behalf of customers within a city, county, or group of jurisdictions. The CCA is
responsible for choosing and procuring the mix of resources, as well as system reliability in regulated
markets. Eight states have passed state CCA-enabling legislation and each state has at least one CCA that
was formed when a local government body voted to aggregate its retail electricity or passed a public
referendum. Most CCAs use an opt-out structure where customers are automatically enrolled unless they
choose to switch to the basic utility service. CCA voluntary green power program structures vary, but many
have “opt-up” products for their customers to select 100% renewable electricity (NREL, 2019).
As part of the City’s due diligence to assess cost, long-term savings, and community equity considerations,
the economic feasibility and policy options study will help inform the appropriate path forward to
effectively meet Bozeman’s clean energy goals.
Priority Lead & Implementing
Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Montana Cities and
Counties
• NorthWestern
Energy
• 1.3 Public Agencies
Collaboration
• 6.3 Climate Action
• % increase of utility-scale
renewable energy
• % decrease in delivered
electricity CO2 emissions factor
• Decrease in total annual utility-
scale emissions
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 66
Action 2.D.2. Collaborate and Innovate Utility-Scale Solutions with NorthWestern Energy
With a strong track record of collaboration
with NorthWestern Energy on local efforts
such as the Bozeman Energy Project and the
Bozeman Solar Project at the City’s Water
Reclamation Facility, the City will seek to
formalize the existing long-term partnership
with NorthWestern Energy with a
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The
MOU will provide a framework of joint actions
and implementation timeline for the City and
NorthWestern Energy to seek mutually
beneficial programs and policies that will
address the City’s clean energy goals and the
utilities’ stated electric capacity shortfall.
Examples of joint programs contained within the MOU may include efforts such as the development of
green power purchasing options for the City and community members, formal engagement in the
development of the Electricity Supply Resource Plan, community renewable energy projects, Demand Side
Management (DSM) energy efficiency programs, Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) deployment,
local planning for large new commercial loads, electrification coordination, and possible support for
batteries and pumped storage. Through the MOU, the City will urge greater transparency from
NorthWestern Energy on their reported emissions factors and carbon goal and urge the utility to establish
an absolute emissions reduction goal. The City will seek input from stakeholders and outside subject
matter experts on the development of this MOU and community members will have an opportunity to
comment on any final agreement. The City will continue to grow interlocal partnerships with Montana
cities and counties to advance common clean energy and climate goals contained in the MOU.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• NorthWestern Energy
• Energy and environmental
non-profits
• Montana Dept. of
Environmental Quality
• Montana League of Cities &
Towns
• 1.3 Public Agencies
Collaboration
• 6.3 Climate Action
• % increase of utility-scale
renewable energy
• % decrease in delivered
electricity CO2 emissions
factor
• Decrease in total annual
utility-scale emissions
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 67
Action 2.D.3. Support Policies to Expand Renewable Energy and Just Transition Initiatives
The City of Bozeman can play a proactive role in shaping Montana’s energy future. Cities have the ability
to build support within our existing networks or form new partnerships to help advance our climate goals.
While the City has supported a clean energy agenda in the Montana Legislature for over a decade, for the
first time the City’s 2021 Legislative Agenda & Priorities includes clean energy among the top three
priorities.
Offering testimony at the Montana Legislature and the Public Service Commission can help advance
critical conversations across the state. Examples of policies aimed at advancing energy efficiency and clean
energy may include time-of-use rate design, energy storage policies, utility business model reform,
Property Assessed Clean Energy, oppose future efforts to acquire additional shares of Colstrip, or
advancing state-wide research and development focused on the potential for geothermal, hydrogen
resources, energy storage, or other disruptive technologies.
The decline of coal in Montana (U.S. Energy Information Administration, 2020, Montana State Profile and
Energy Estimates) and closure of Colstrip Units 1 and 2 have helped reduce greenhouse gas emissions in
the electricity sector, but more significant reductions are needed to achieve Bozeman’s long-term climate
goals. These emissions reductions will improve health, reduce the impacts and associated costs of climate
change, and offer new economic opportunities. At the same time, these changes will cause significant
economic disruption for workers and communities closely tied to fossil fuels in Montana.
A just transition focuses on policies that enable greater fairness for and input from workers and
communities that are negatively affected by the transition away from fossil fuels, especially low-income
communities that may have dealt with environmental injustice by living near polluting fossil fuel
infrastructure. Examples of programs that could address just transition goals include economic
development programs, Brownfield or Superfund programs, loan programs, clean energy tax credits,
workforce development, and social safety net programs that benefit workers and communities impacted
by the closure of coal mines, coal power plants, oil refineries, and associated industries. Robust cleanup
efforts, such as dewatering Colstrip ash pond and implementing a “high and dry” secure storage of toxic
material to protect ground water for future generations supports local environmental justice efforts.
Bozeman will help advance rural priorities and just transition initiatives within the City’s legislative
priorities. Just transition funding should be qualified to guarantee that the funding goes toward workforce
development, retraining programs, and impacted tribal entities. Locally, Bozeman may identify
opportunities to support clean energy workforce development and job re-training programs through
Gallatin College.
The City will proactively plan to advocate for clean energy and just transition initiatives in the Montana
Legislature and Public Service Commission.
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 68
The City of Bozeman
recognizes that the
Intergovernmental Panel on
Climate Change (IPCC)
considers carbon pricing
“necessary” to reach carbon
reduction goals. While
national carbon pricing
legislation enacted by
Congress would be the most
efficient way to implement
this market-based
approach, there are also
efforts underway on state
and regional levels as well.
The City can become a leader by engaging in discussions about creative bipartisan market-based policies
that effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions by spurring low/no carbon innovation, and work in a
way that sustains local economic development and offers other benefits to Bozeman and rural Montana.
A revenue neutral carbon fee and dividend, carbon adjustments and regulatory reform, including
eliminating fossil fuel subsidies, offer promising market-based approaches to combatting climate change.
The City of Bozeman will support state and federal legislation that embodies the principles of effectiveness
and equity (an example is H.R. 763, the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act) in addressing
greenhouse gas emissions reduction
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• NorthWestern Energy
• Montana Legislature
• Public Service Commission
• Montana Consumer Counsel
• Energy and environment non-
profits
• Bozeman School District
• Gallatin College
• 1.3 Public Agencies
Collaboration
• 6.3 Climate Action
• % increase of utility-
scale renewable energy
• % decrease in delivered
electricity CO2
emissions factor
• Decrease in total
annual utility-scale
emissions
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 69
2.D.4. Encourage Philosophical Shift for Utility Provider
Bozeman’s ability to meet any of its stated goals is dependent upon a rapid transition to renewable energy
sources by the utility. There is no current indication that NorthWestern Energy intends to make such a
transition to meet Bozeman’s goals. Other utilities have recognized that their corporate mission must
recognize a responsibility for future generations—and they have set aggressive goals to transition away
from fossil fuels. Absent a similar governing philosophy, NorthWestern Energy will not be able to serve
the specific desires of their customer base. Representing the majority of NorthWestern Energy’s Montana
customer base, Bozeman, Gallatin County, Missoula (city and county), Helena and other partners should
make direct appeals to the Board of Directors and major shareholders of the utility to meet the needs of
their customers by adopting similar transition goals comparable to other enlightened utility providers.
The City will work with partner communities to encourage NorthWestern Energy’s Board of Directors and
shareholders to adopt a corporate philosophy that recognizes an urgent need to shift to renewable energy
sources in order to safeguard the long-term health and well-being of their customers.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Montana Cities and Counties
• NorthWestern Energy
• 1.3 Public Agencies
Collaboration
• 6.3 Climate Action
• % increase of utility-
scale renewable energy
• % decrease in delivered
electricity CO2
emissions factor
• Decrease in total
annual utility-scale
emissions
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 70
Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
This solution focuses on institutional,
business, and community voluntary
participation in clean energy programs
provided through the energy utility. Two
common green power purchase program
models are renewable energy certificates
(RECs) and green tariffs.
Under a REC program, customers opt-in to
paying a slight premium on their electric bill
to support the development of renewable
energy generation. In exchange, customers
receive the RECs associated with electrical
generation, which may be located inside or
outside the utility’s service area (unbundled
RECs). If purchasing RECs, some buyers may
want to consider buying RECs from areas
with low renewable capacity or where the
grid is dirtiest. Some disadvantages to RECs
are that there may be potential for double
counting of the clean energy attributes of
renewable energy and RECs do not
necessarily contribute to “additionality” or
an increase in the amount of renewable
energy on the local grid. NorthWestern Energy’s green power purchase program is called E+ Green. It is
available to the utility’s electric customers. The E+ Green program currently provides RECs from the
Bonneville Environmental Foundation, which has resources in Wyoming, Montana, and the Northwest.
Energy purchased through the E+ Green program, or other similar REC programs, cannot be used to help
Bozeman reach its’ emissions reduction goals under the Global Protocol for Community-scale Greenhouse
Gas Emissions.
Conversely, a green tariff is an increasingly popular optional pricing structure offered by a utility through
a contractual arrangement that allows customers to purchase both the electricity from a large-scale
renewable energy project and the associated RECs or environmental attributes (bundled RECs). For
Bozeman, the key elements of green tariff program are the addition of clean electrons to the utility’s grid
and the associated RECs. Both are necessary to help reduce Bozeman’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 71
With respect to equity, this solution may be unattainable to lower-income or energy cost-
burdened community members. Some entities provide scholarships or sponsorships to
increase low-income access to green power purchase programs. Similarly, green tariff
programs may only be available to large commercial, industrial, or municipal customers, not
the entire community.
As with the solution to increase utility clean energy mix, increased investment in renewable
energy technologies will likely lead to health and air quality benefits as fossil fuel
consumption declines and facilities are decommissioned over time.
The City of Bozeman could advance this solution by opting into a green tariff for all facilities
and electricity accounts.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s greenhouse gas mitigation goals, while also
providing some supporting resiliency benefits.
Emissions Reduction Benefits
Resiliency Benefits
This is a primary mitigation
solution to achieve the 2025,
2030 goals, and a supporting
solution to achieve the 2050 goal.
Emission sources impacted
include:
• Electricity
• Conserve natural resources
• Protect human health
Related Solutions
• Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
• Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 72
Action 2.E.1. Advance Green Tariff Program Development and Participation
Increasing community demand for clean energy products will result in greater investment in clean energy
across Montana. Developing and participating in a green tariff program by the City of Bozeman and other
institutions, businesses, or residents will be necessary to ensure that Bozeman meets our 2025 emissions
reduction goal.
A green tariff can be designed and branded in a variety of ways. The following green tariff programs
represent cost-competitive examples that result in customer savings over longer-term contract periods:
• Puget Sound Energy’s Green Direct – For commercial customers
• Xcel’s Renewable*Connect - Colorado – For commercial customers
• Florida Power & Light’s Solar Together - For commercial and residential customers with low-
income participation option
NorthWestern Energy has agreed to develop a green tariff through a Green Power Stakeholder Advisory
Committee, which includes City of Bozeman representation. The City of Bozeman, Missoula County, the
City of Missoula, and the City of Helena are jointly seeking a third party consultant to advance the local
governments’ 100% net clean electricity goals and economic interests, including consideration for a
residential program and low-income option to address equity. Bozeman’s key principles for a green tariff
product include: expanded choice in procuring renewable energy; cost competitiveness between the
standard retail rate and the renewable energy product offering; and access to projects that are new and
help drive emissions reduction beyond business as usual in NorthWestern Energy’s Montana service
territory.
Bozeman will continue to work with partner communities and NorthWestern Energy to develop the green
tariff in 2021 and potentially support filing of a green tariff with the Montana Public Service Commission
in 2022. Bozeman will continue to engage with stakeholders, institutional partners, and community
members throughout the process. If successful, Bozeman will seek to procure renewable energy for city
operations and actively recruit institutions, businesses, and residents to participate, as appropriate.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• NorthWestern Energy
• Montana Cities
• Public Service Commission
• Montana Consumer Counsel
• Energy & Enviro. Advocates
• Business Leaders
• Montana State University &
Bozeman School District
• 1.3 Public Agencies
Collaboration
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Establishment of a
voluntary Montana
green tariff
• Total kWh of clean
energy procured for
Bozeman through the
green tariff
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 73
Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
This solution supplements utility-scale clean
energy generation with more localized
community investments. It encourages
installation of distributed renewable energy
technologies, such as on-site solar,
community solar gardens, methane capture,
and small wind and hydro generation.
Investment in local renewable energy
showcases local commitment to
sustainability and climate goals. For
example, from 2009 to 2019, solar
photovoltaic installations on City property
generated 1,390 megawatt hours of
electricity.
While typically more expensive than utility-
scale projects, there are myriad resources
and incentives to make distributed
renewable energy projects economically
viable. Plus, when linked to energy storage
options like batteries, microgrid
technologies, and district energy, distributed
renewable energy increases opportunities
for resiliency in the event of a power outage
or grid failure.
NorthWestern Energy customers who install solar panels, small wind, or hydro technology on their
properties can request net metering, which provides a utility bill credit for any surplus energy generated.
Self-generating systems of up to 50 kW in size are allowed to net meter under current Montana law.
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 74
Equity considerations associated with distributed renewable energy include
access/availability to community members from various geographic and socio-economic
positions. For example, some locations of the community are not well-positioned to take
advantage of solar resources due to building orientation or tree coverage/other obstacles to
solar access. Similarly, lower-income community members may not be able to afford
investments into on-site improvements, and renters may be unable to make permanent
improvements to structures. Solutions such as community solar gardens can help improve
access and participation.
Like the other solutions in this focus area, increased investment in renewable energy
technologies will likely lead to health and air quality benefits as fossil fuel consumption
declines and facilities are decommissioned over time.
There are many opportunities for the City of Bozeman to continue to advance this solution.
This includes planning for, financing, and implementing rooftop solar on municipal buildings
and parking structures, making land available for community solar projects, and continuing
to investigate opportunities for methane capture, small wind, and hydro generation projects
at suitable City facilities.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s greenhouse gas mitigation goals, while also providing some
supporting resiliency benefits.
Emissions Reduction Benefits
Resiliency Benefits
This is a supporting mitigation
solution to achieve the 2025,
2030, and 2050 mitigation goals.
Emission sources impacted
include:
• Electricity
• Conserve natural resources
• Strengthen infrastructure to
natural disaster
• Mitigate property and
economic losses
• Protect human health
Related Solutions
• Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
• Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 75
Action 2.F.1. Plan and Install Renewable Energy Projects for City Facilities
The City will continue to lead and demonstrate the value of local renewable energy within municipal
operations by setting a target of achieving 100% net clean electricity consumption by 2025. The City will
identify, plan, and invest in municipal solar PV, or other suitable renewable energy projects, such as
district energy, geothermal and Combined Heat and Power. To build resiliency, the City will plan and invest
in cost-effective energy storage projects and microgrids to enhance reliability of renewable energy
systems at strategic locations.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• NorthWestern Energy
• 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure
Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• % Increase of
distributed renewable
energy for City
facilities
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 76
Action 2.F.2. Streamline Solar Permitting and Adopt Solar-Ready Code Provisions
The City will continue to simplify and
improve the permitting process for on-site
renewable energy projects and begin
tracking system installations to help
estimate our communities’ local generation
potential.
Renewable energy options will be included in
a voluntary above-code incentive program
and the City will partner with developers and
homeowner’s associations to design model
covenants that encourage more permissive
and supportive frameworks for installing
rooftop solar PV.
Further, with the adoption of the 2018 IECC
and the solar-ready appendix, the City will
evaluate the feasibility of adopting the
appendix as a part of the local building code.
This would help ensure that all new buildings
are prepared to integrate cost-effective solar
PV installations at a later date.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Solar Installers
• Southwest Montana
Building
Industry Association
• Montana Code
Collaborative
• Montana Dept. of
Environmental Quality
• Montana Renewable
Energy Association
• NorthWestern Energy
• 2.1 Business Growth
• 4.2 High-Quality
Urban Approach
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Adoption of the 2018 IECC
solar ready appendix
• Achieve SolSmart
designation for solar
permitting
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 77
Action 2.F.3. Advance Distributed Solar Policies
Building on the success of the Bozeman Solar Project, the City will evaluate all future options for this
project with NorthWestern Energy, including co-investing to expand the project and develop a new tariff
for utility-owned community solar. The City will partner to study a variety of public and private
opportunity areas for community solar, evaluate rate models, and potential equity solutions to make
community solar more accessible to all Bozeman residents.
In addition, the City will collaborate with renewable energy stakeholders to consider utility business model
reform policies designed to remove the inherent disincentive for utilities to promote energy efficiency
and distributed renewable energy generation. Given the limitations within Montana law to pursue local
energy choice, the City may pursue state legislation to allow community solar, net energy metering
aggregation, and net energy metering over 50 kW.
The City will continue to build the partnerships with Montana State University to test and learn from pilot
renewable energy projects, including new technologies, financing models, community microgrids, and
energy storage (e.g., off-duty school buses).
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• NorthWestern Energy
• Montana Legislature
• Public Service Commission
• Montana Consumer Counsel
• Energy and Environment
Non-profits
• Montana State University
• 2.1 Business Growth
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Approval of a
community solar tariff
through the PSC
• Establishment of
NorthWestern Energy
community solar project
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 78
Action 2.F.4. Promote Education and Incentives for Distributed Renewable Energy and Storage
The City and its partners, such as the Montana Renewable Energy Association, can work to improve access
to solar energy by facilitating group purchasing of rooftop solar systems for Bozeman area residents.
Allowing multiple homeowners to come together and aggregate their purchase reduces costs, making
solar more affordable for many more households. The City will help develop resources and explore
incentives to encourage residential and business investment in rooftop solar and energy storage, including
current financing resources for renewable energy (see also supporting Action 1.A.6).
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 3 • City of Bozeman
• NorthWestern Energy
• Montana State University
• Montana Weatherization
Training Center
• Montana Renewable Energy
Association
• Financial Institutions
• 1.2 Community
Engagement
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Establish a method of
tracking distributed
renewable installations
• % increase in commercial
and residential renewable
energy installations
Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 79
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
The following opportunities and considerations summarize how the solutions in this chapter can help
improve resiliency to future climate hazards.
Opportunities Considerations
Extreme Heat
• A more diverse and distributed energy supply
may have more capacity to handle wider
fluctuations in demand.
• Distributed energy and storage can increase
the grid’s capacity to accommodate spikes in
demand during extreme temperatures.
• Cooling demand on hot days could exceed
renewable energy capacity.
• Community members may feel less
motivated to practice efficiency if energy
comes from “clean” sources.
Flooding
• Increased flows associated with large rain
events could support micro-hydro systems.
• Floods may pose a risk to micro-hydro or
other renewable energy infrastructure.
Drought & Mountain Snowpack
• 100% renewable mix could decrease water
consumption associated with fossil fuel
energy production long-term.
• Increasing the generation capacity of solar
and wind can help reduce reliance on
hydropower.
• Drought could increase water costs, leading
to high overall utility cost burden.
• Drought could inhibit generation dependent
on water (hydro, steam, solar heated water).
Wildfire
• Distributed energy and storage could
decrease the number of customers impacted
by grid disruptions due to wildfires.
• Smoke and ash may inhibit solar energy
generation.
• Solar and wind infrastructure located within
the wildland urban interface could be at risk
for damage.
Winter Storms
• Distributed energy and microgrids can
decrease the number of customers impacted
by grid disruptions due to winter storms.
• Solar PV installed on steep roof pitches
improves winter production and sheds snow
more quickly.
• Accumulation of snow, ice, and extreme wind
can inhibit solar and/or wind generation.
• May be challenging to service a decentralized
system in the event of a severe winter storm.
• Siting of ground mounted PV should be tall
enough to allow for snow accumulation from
snowfall and clearing of panels.
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 80
FOCUS AREA 3. VIBRANT & RESILIENT NEIGHBORHOODS
Bozeman has a strong commitment to neighborhood and
community planning to promote public health and safety,
create a functional community that is beautiful and
efficient, balance the desires of developers and community
members, and support economic development. In addition
to these benefits, well designed neighborhoods can help
reduce the distance residents need to travel to work or to
access services. This is important because it reduces
transportation GHG emissions by facilitating a transition to
active modes of transportation and reducing the miles
traveled in personal vehicles. In 2018, transportation
emissions made up 38% of community GHG emissions, and
19% of total emissions were from light-duty vehicles.
Various plans, policies, and regulations exist to shape
community growth, enhance existing community assets,
and protect important resources. Moreover, these planning resources help establish the foundation for
many other solutions and community investments such as buildings, infrastructure, transportation, and
natural systems.
Per the 2020 Community Plan, Bozeman’s Planning Area is generally the area of the City’s future municipal
water and sewer service boundary. It includes the City of Bozeman as well as a half-mile to two-mile area
around, but outside, the City limits in the Gallatin County jurisdictional area. The Planning Area is nearly
70.8 square miles. The City’s current footprint is 20.4 square miles. Since 1988, Bozeman has annexed, at
landowners’ request, more than 6,650 acres of land, about 10.3 square miles– more than doubling its size.
The projected land demand through 2040, based on estimated population growth, ranges from 3,820
acres to 5,716 acres, depending largely on levels of density in future residential developments. Faster
rates of population growth will require additional land area. The 2020 Community Plan encourages
development within the municipal boundaries where City services are available and thoughtful
development in the Planning Area is guided by the Community Plan’s goals and policies.
The neighborhood-focused solutions in this chapter support these existing planning resources and aim to
further connect land use planning and development decision-making with climate-related considerations.
They seek to reduce risk and vulnerability to natural hazards and to strengthen neighborhood capacity
and resiliency. While the City of Bozeman can establish regulations and policies to inform investment and
guide decision-making, private property owners have important roles to play in shaping neighborhood
vibrancy and advancing resiliency.
RELATED PLANS & STUDIES
• Unified Development Code
• 2020 Community Plan
• The Guidelines for Historic
Preservation & The
Neighborhood Conservation
Overlay District
• Midtown Action Plan
• Triangle Community Plan
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 81
These solutions are strongly tied to improving community resiliency, and compact development is also an
important long-term strategy for reducing transportation-based emissions. Compact and efficient
development patterns can lead to reduced building energy consumption on a per-unit basis, though new
construction will likely lead to increased energy use overall, unless net zero construction practices are
employed. To support achievement of the GHG emissions and community resiliency goals, the Bozeman
community will need to:
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
Proactively plan existing and future land uses to reduce the distance people need to travel for
work and to access shopping and services.
• Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
Leverage neighborhood and infrastructure design to improve capacity to adapt to natural hazards
including wildfire, flooding, drought, extreme heat, and winter storms.
• Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
Build social capital to improve community capacity to adapt to natural hazards and find resiliency
in times of crisis.
Figure 18 shows the impact of solutions in this focus area on projected business as usual emissions and
detailed fuel-saving targets for each goal year are shown in Table 8. Note that energy efficiency benefits
from compact development patterns are accounted for in Solution B.
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 82
Figure 18. Projected neighborhoods GHG reductions by solution
Table 8. Projected neighborhoods solution mitigation targets
Target Target Target
Solution Metric (annual savings)
2025
Paris Accord
2030
100% Net Clean
Electricity
2050
Carbon Neutral
Solution G. Facilitate
Compact
Development
Patterns
Gasoline (gallons) 1.9 million 3.8 million 11.2 million
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 83
Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
This solution emphasizes the
importance of proactively
planning existing and future land
uses to reduce the distance
people need to travel for work
and to access shopping and
services. Compact development
can be difficult to achieve in some
areas of historic growth within
the City, so context-sensitive infill
development and redevelopment
approaches are essential. For
future growth and development,
leveraging key planning resources
such as the future land use map
and Unified Development Code
can help spur compact
development and compatible
infill and redevelopment
activities.
Compact development
encourages or supports smaller
lot sizes, reduced setbacks,
multiple units per property, and
multi-story buildings in
appropriate locations. However,
compact development patterns
do not stop at the property line. For compact development to function properly, the public right-of-way
must accommodate all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users, in addition to those that
need to move around by car. In addition to the physical design, compact development must also
encourage the right mix of uses. Incorporating essential land uses, such as grocery stores, medical centers,
offices, and beyond, is crucial to ensure that compact development improves access to employment,
goods, and services.
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 84
Though compact development can improve access to goods and services, it is important to
consider: who is gaining access and who is left behind? The 2019 City of Bozeman
Community Housing Needs Assessment showed that between 5,400 to 6,340 housing units
are needed over the next five years to address the current housing shortfall for residents and the
workforce and to keep up with job growth. Even where residential and commercial land uses are well
mixed, residents may be forced to live in more affordable housing miles from where they are employed.
Exacerbating this issue, improving access to goods and services can increase property values, which may
make purchasing or renting a home even less attainable, pushing residents further away from these
compact nodes. Fortunately, there are means of mitigating these unintended consequences. By
encouraging, incentivizing, or even requiring the inclusion of affordable housing as part of compact
development and redevelopment, residents typically pushed further away from activity centers can afford
to live near goods and services.
In addition to improving resiliency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, compact
development can yield many co-benefits. By reducing the distance residents need to travel
to access employment, goods, and services, compact development can support an uptick in
the adoption of active modes of travel. In addition to reducing pollution associated with car
travel, residents are able to engage in more active forms of transportation (e.g., biking and walking) and
may reap the health benefits of increasing their physical activity. For many residents, compact
development can also increase social cohesion by removing barriers to social interaction and increasing
opportunities for gathering in shared community spaces.
The City of Bozeman can lead by example by siting and designing all future community
facilities in a manner that demonstrates compact development best practices.
Furthermore, the City has a distinct role to work with the development community to
guide new development and redevelopment toward compact patterns.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s greenhouse gas mitigation goals, while also providing
supporting resiliency benefits.
Emissions Reduction Benefits
Resiliency Benefits
This is a supporting mitigation
solution to achieve the 2025 and
2030 mitigation goals, and
secondary solution to achieve the
2050 mitigation goals.
Emission sources impacted include:
• Gasoline/Diesel
• Conserve natural resources
• Increase social cohesion
• Mitigate property and
economic losses
• Protect human health
Related Solutions
• Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
• Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
• Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
• Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
• Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 85
Action 3.G.1. Continue Regional Coordination on Compact Growth and Sustainable Development
The current land area of the City of Bozeman is approximately 20.4 square miles. However, the City’s
planning area is nearly 70.8 square miles. Much of the land in Bozeman’s planning area lies within Gallatin
County’s jurisdiction. Though the 2020 Community Plan encourages development within the municipal
boundaries, growth pressures will necessitate careful coordination between the City and County to ensure
sustainable development patterns as Bozeman grows into its planning area.
Current projections estimate Bozeman may need to annex between 3,820 and 5,716 acres of land by 2040.
Annexing additional land will necessitate significant investment in sewer, water, and other infrastructure.
By working closely with regional partners to promote compact growth, primarily within existing city limits,
Bozeman can limit the total acreage of land required to accommodate new growth. Regardless, promoting
compact growth within and outside of city limits will require careful consideration and implementation of
resource conservation efforts and maintenance and upgrade cycles to ensure existing and new
infrastructure can accommodate new growth.
Aligning around shared sources of current and future data is foundational to coordinated land use
planning. For instance, the City and County may agree to use the same scenario-based software to
evaluate the economic and environmental impacts of new development. In addition to sharing data
sources and design standards for infrastructure, City and County Departments should develop land use
and infrastructure plans to help guide projected growth locations. Finally, the inclusion of safe, accessible,
and diverse transportation options is paramount to achieving the goal of compact and sustainable
development. Specific to this action item, the City and County will coordinate on regional multi-modal
connections to ensure a high functioning network of compact development.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• City of Belgrade
• Gallatin County
• 4.1 Informed
Conversation on
Growth
• 6.3 Climate Action
• # of education/training
sessions or engagement
with City and regional
elected officials
• # of coordinated planning
efforts that promote
consistency throughout
the region for parks,
transportation, transit
service, and other
community infrastructure
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 86
Action 3.G.2. Revise Development Code to Enhance Compact and Sustainable Development
At the local level, the Unified Development Code (UDC) is one of the most influential documents guiding
the form and character of a community. This action is focused on ensuring the UDC, as well as other
relevant City Code chapters, continue to support infill development, redevelopment, and high-quality
mixed use development. As new areas are developed and existing areas redeveloped to sustainable code
standards, Bozeman will continue to move toward a future where households are near the goods,
services, and amenities essential to a high quality of life.
Already the City of Bozeman has taken substantial steps to facilitate compact development (e.g., by
allowing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) by right, by reducing minimum lot sizes by 60%, and by
diversifying zoning districts to allow for a mix of uses). This action item seeks to build on activities to date.
To achieve this, the City can identify additional opportunities in the UDC to enhance compact
development requirements (e.g., additional mixed use, reduced parking requirements with installed EV
infrastructure, etc.). The City will explore options to encourage development above and beyond minimum
requirements, such as incentive programs or performance policies. Though voluntary compliance and
performance-based programs often require additional coordination with developers, if designed well,
these systems can help push the envelope and ensure investment in desired amenities, such as multi-
modal and transit infrastructure, low impact development, sustainable landscaping, and neighborhood
gathering spaces. Neighborhood gathering spaces and other opportunities for social cohesion are a critical
component of sustainable development.
Implementation activities within this action item will require coordination with utilities to better
understand, accommodate, and plan for site constraints associated with compact development. This will
include preparation for building and transportation electrification and ensuring adequate plans for
maintaining and upgrading sewer, water, and other utilities.
Priority Lead &
Implementing Partners
Strategic
Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Downtown and
Midtown Urban
Renewal Districts
• 4.1 Informed
Conversation on
Growth
• 4.2 High Quality
Urban Approach
• 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure
Choices
• 6.3 Climate Action
• UDC revisions that reflect density
increases, such as maximum building
height limits, minimum development
intensity requirements, or
elimination or reduction of minimum
parking requirements
• Number of new residential or
commercial units built in existing
neighborhoods or developed areas in
City limits
• Adopted land use management
techniques and incentives that
promote development within City
limits
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 87
Action 3.G.3. Develop Sustainable Neighborhoods Outreach
While the City of Bozeman can establish regulations and policies to inform investment and guide decision-
making, private property owners have important roles to play in shaping neighborhood vibrancy and
advancing resiliency. This action focuses on empowering neighborhood partners to enact sustainable
practices at the scale of the neighborhood, street, condo complex, or apartment building.
For this action, the City will partner with developers, neighborhood groups, and community members to
develop and share education and engagement campaigns that allow neighborhoods to connect,
participate in the sharing economy, and learn about sustainable housing options. Creating a recognition
program for sustainable neighborhoods and developers will facilitate the sharing of best practices, while
providing a competitive edge for developers. Homeowners’ associations will be key partners in the
development of shared community amenities, such as “thingery sheds” and lending libraries. The City will
help promote successes and encourage the adoption of sustainable practices by creating and sharing case
studies, promotional materials, and resources regarding the benefits of ADUs, co-housing and cottage
developments, and local sharing economies.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Inter Neighborhood
Council
• Bozeman Climate Partners
Working Group
• Homeowner’s Associations
• Montana State University
• 1.1 Outreach
• 4.1 Informed
Conversation on
Growth
• 6.3 Climate Action
• # of contacts with
Neighborhood
Associations, HOAs, and
community leaders
• # of trainings offered to
Neighborhood
Associations,
neighborhoods, or
community groups
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 88
Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
This solution focuses on improving the capacity of Bozeman to adapt to natural hazards, including wildfire,
flooding, drought, extreme heat, and winter storms, through the lens of neighborhood and infrastructure
design. Reducing the vulnerability of neighborhoods and infrastructure can be split into two key activities:
siting and design.
To the extent practicable, neighborhoods and infrastructure should be sited in safe locations (i.e., away
from floodplains or wildfire activity areas). In some instances, siting neighborhoods and infrastructure in
vulnerable locations may be unavoidable; in these cases, additional measures may be necessary to bolster
infrastructure against hazards. Design can play an important role in reducing vulnerability against all
hazards. Sites can be designed using low impact development or green infrastructure techniques to
mitigate runoff and reduce the risk of flooding. On a smaller scale, buildings can be designed to withstand
extreme conditions and protect inhabitants. For example, insulating walls and pipes and designing roofs
to withstand heavy snows and prevent ice dams can protect inhabitants in the event of a severe winter
storm. Critical infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, power lines, water treatment plants, parking
structures etc., should also be designed to withstand extreme conditions, such as flooding, wildfires, high
winds, and winter storms.
The building code, UDC, and other City Code chapters are foundational to resilient neighborhood and
infrastructure design. For example, overlay districts can serve to restrict development in the floodway,
while building codes can require the incorporation of flood-resistant building design. Through
partnerships with Gallatin County Emergency Management, the City develops the appropriate plans for
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 89
managing risk in hazardous areas, including the potential relocation process for damaged property and
infrastructure.
When developing in a manner that reduces the vulnerability of neighborhoods and
infrastructure to hazards, it is important to consider how different socio-economic
characteristics may increase vulnerability. Older adults or persons with disabilities may be
less mobile and therefore more vulnerable in the event of a disaster. Alternatively,
immobility may stem from a person’s or family’s economic status. Low-income residents
may be less able to move or recover from a disaster. In many cases, low-income
neighborhoods are sited in less desirable locations, such as within floodplains, which can
put community members especially at risk. Often, mobile home communities are some of
the most vulnerable neighborhoods, due to a combination of construction quality, siting,
and limited economic mobility of residents.
Resilient neighborhood and infrastructure design can dramatically improve public health
and life-safety outcomes in the event of natural disasters. For instance, buildings designed
to withstand flooding may reduce vulnerability to property damage while also protecting
the public health and safety of residents.
The City of Bozeman can lead by example by continuing to implement the Bozeman
Climate Vulnerability Assessment and Resiliency Strategy to bolster the resiliency of
identified City assets.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s resiliency goals, with minimal impact on the greenhouse gas
mitigation goals.
Related Solutions
• Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
• Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
• Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
Resiliency Benefits
• Strengthen infrastructure to natural disaster
• Mitigate property and economic losses
• Protect human health
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 90
Action 3.H.1. Plan for Resilience Hubs at Critical Facilities
The 2019 Climate Vulnerability Assessment & Resiliency Strategy included a vulnerability assessment of
24 municipal buildings and facilities, organized into three primary building functions: critical city facilities,
community centers, and critical infrastructure. Together, critical facilities are the structures and services
necessary to meet the daily needs of the community. This includes water and wastewater treatment
plants, police and emergency services departments, municipal administration, and community centers,
among others. Ensuring continuous operation of these facilities and services is paramount to the safety
and well-being of Bozeman community members, especially in the event of shocks and stressors.
Importantly, if designed appropriately, critical facilities can serve as resilience hubs during emergencies
such as extreme heat, hazardous air quality, severe winter storms, and wildfire.
This action calls for the development of one or more resiliency hub demonstration project(s) at a critical
facility that showcases structural and operational resiliency, renewable energy plus storage, energy and
water efficient building design, and best practices in stormwater management. This will allow these
facilities to function as hubs for coordinated emergency response and recovery during periods of
community stress or crisis.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Gallatin County Emergency
Management
• Greater Gallatin United
Way
• Human Resources
Development Council
• 1.3 Public Agencies
Collaboration
• 3.1 Informed
Conversation on
Growth
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Establish plan for
resilience hubs based on
community needs
• Completion of a
demonstration resilience
hub
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 91
Action 3.H.2. Advance Resilience in Development Code and Development Review
The UDC is central to resilient
neighborhood and building design.
The UDC, in conjunction with the
development review process,
determines both where new
development is located and how it is
designed. Thus, ensuring the
development process discourages
growth near potential hazards (e.g.,
floodplains, the wildland urban
interface) while encouraging resilient
design can have a significant impact
on public health and safety.
Ensuring pathways to advance low
impact development (LID) will be
crucial. Low impact development is
essential to effectively manage
stormwater, especially as the
community promotes compact
design and the intensity of storm
events increases. Where the building
code is hindered by State-level
requirements, Bozeman will explore
opportunities to require or provide
incentives to encourage the use of
sustainable (i.e., sturdy, fire-
resistant, and efficient) building materials and practices, green infrastructure, and climate-adaptive
landscapes, among other best practices.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman • 1.1 Outreach
• 3.2 Health & Safety
Action
• 6.3 Climate Action
• GIS data mapping for
environmentally sensitive
and/or hazard-prone
areas
• # of LID or flood control
infrastructure
installations (e.g.,
permeable pavers,
bioretention facilities,
rain gardens, and
infiltration galleries
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 92
Action 3.H.3. Support Residential and Business Preparedness Outreach
Even as infrastructure evolves and improves, individual and neighborhood preparedness will be
paramount to strengthening resiliency in the face of anticipated climate risks and hazards. This action
focuses on supporting business, households, and neighborhood-scale emergency planning and
preparedness.
Mapping areas of high risk and vulnerability (e.g., floodplains and wildland urban interface) is an important
first step when developing a preparedness outreach campaign. Though some of these maps already exist,
it will be important for the City to periodically update maps to reflect current and ever-changing
conditions. Neighborhoods at Risk, developed by Headwaters Economics, is an interactive data tool that
provides neighborhood-level information about potentially vulnerable people and climate change. Maps
can be used to help focus on vulnerable areas of the community and to communicate the importance of
preparedness. Importantly, the preparedness campaign will identify actionable steps community
members can take to mitigate and adapt to potential hazards. Additional implementation activities may
include developing action plans in partnership with businesses and neighborhoods to further mitigate risk
and improve resiliency.
The City Stormwater Division’s education and outreach program can serve as a model and touchpoint
for sharing information and best practices related to residential and business preparedness related to
green infrastructure, and maintenance of public and private stormwater infrastructure for flood
mitigation.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Gallatin County Emergency
Management
• Montana State University
• Greater Gallatin United Way
• Human Resources
Development Council
• Southwest Montana
Community Organizations
Active in Disaster
• Homeowners’ Associations
• 1.1 Outreach
• 3.2 Health & Safety
Action
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Development of
outreach plan based on
assessment of hazard
• # of residential and
business preparedness
toolkits distributed
• # of businesses or
residents reached
through outreach
efforts
• # of participants in the
Stormwater Division’s
Adopt a Drain program
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 93
Action 3.H.4. Incorporate Resilience into Infrastructure Plans
The 2019 Climate Vulnerability Assessment and Resiliency Strategy includes a strategy focused on
infrastructure and capital planning. The scope of the study was limited to city assets. While infrastructure
and capacity outside of the city’s purview was considered in the risk assessment, it was not a
comprehensive evaluation of the community. The infrastructure and capital planning strategy emphasizes
planning for critical facility infrastructure hardening and capital projects that limit damage to property,
protect human health, and improve operational performance during and after hazard events. Supporting
actions include the following:
• Continuing to build out back-up power, mobile back-up power, fuel storage, and
communications redundancies for buildings and infrastructure.
• Increasing air filtration capabilities in critical facilities to cope with wildfire smoke.
• Providing covered parking for first responder vehicles and critical snow removal equipment to
ensure reliable service and improve response time during extreme weather events.
• Evaluating the need for heat, air conditioning, or passive cooling within City facilities to protect
the health and safety of employees and users
• Pursuing automated dam controls at Middle Creek Dam to improve operational flexibility and
enhance our ability to respond to wildfire or flood events.
• Continuing to assess the feasibility of watershed or aquifer groundwater storage and recovery
projects, including strategic water reserves.
• Continuing to pursue science-based forest restoration measures to protect the municipal
watershed.
• Prioritize Continuity of Operations planning with Montana State University and other agencies.
This action reinforces the strategy and actions in that plan and emphasizes embedding resiliency
considerations into all future capital improvement planning and design. Ultimately, this may involve
establishing resiliency criteria into capital improvement prioritization processes or adopting resiliency
standards for City infrastructure projects.
Priority Lead & Implementing
Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman • 3.1 Informed
Conversation on Growth
• 3.2 Health & Safety
Action
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Adoption of resiliency guidelines
or prioritization criteria for
infrastructure plans
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 94
Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
This solution focuses on building social capital to improve the capacity of Bozeman to adapt to natural
hazards and find resiliency in times of crisis. Though hard infrastructure is critical to preserve function in
the face of a disaster, social infrastructure and community preparedness can be invaluable when it comes
to rebuilding the community and bouncing back quickly. This means expanding the ability for community
members to be self-sufficient, while simultaneously building the capacity to support each other when
faced with adversity. Recent events like the COVID-19 pandemic reveal how social norms and
infrastructure, like social distancing practices, shape a community’s ability to adapt and recover.
A strong social infrastructure is one that connects community members to the resources they need to
remain resilient in the face of adversity. Enhancing social infrastructure includes encouraging and
supporting authentic connections amongst neighbors and community members to support physical,
mental, and emotional needs. This connection can occur virtually, through virtual neighborhood platforms
and digital communications, as well as in-person, through block parties or community volunteer events.
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 95
Building strong social infrastructure is a key component of preparedness, especially since
some community members may lack the ability to be self-sufficient when facing different
types of challenges or crises. A strong social fabric can help ensure all community members
are included and not forgotten. Education is a crucial component of cultivating community
preparedness and social infrastructure. Instilling individual and shared responsibility for
preparedness can greatly reduce overall community risk, while allowing preventative and
recovery resources to be funneled toward community members least able to protect
themselves or respond to crises or disasters.
Enhancing social infrastructure and community preparedness for a diverse community will
require accommodating diverse needs. Educational materials should be made available in
multiple languages and for the hearing impaired. Meetings intended to bring together a
cross-section of the community should include consideration for free transportation, access
for persons with disabilities, childcare, translators, and safe spaces for the LGBTQ
community.
Connecting community members to their neighbors, community partners, and City
resources may reduce the isolation and vulnerability of individual persons and families by
creating a network of connected resources able to lend support in the event of a crisis or
disaster. Additionally, ensuring community members are fully informed and prepared
before a crisis or disaster can reduce risk and vulnerability.
The City of Bozeman can lead by example by siting and constructing community centers and
neighborhood gathering spaces to foster social connections and build a sense of
community. Community centers should cater to Bozeman’s diverse population by including
programming and communications in multiple languages, and by being accessible to
persons with differing abilities. Finally, community and neighborhood centers should
include spaces and programming to include and support Bozeman’s most vulnerable
community members, including older adults, racial minorities, economically disadvantaged
families, persons with disabilities, and the LGBTQ community.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s resiliency goals, with minimal impact on the greenhouse gas
mitigation goals.
Related Solutions
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
• Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
• Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
Resiliency Benefits
• Increase social cohesion
• Mitigate property and economic losses
• Protect human health
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 96
Action 3.I.1. Support Community and Neighborhood Resilience Programming
Resilience programs are place-based initiatives that empower community members to build connections,
skills, and resources to be prepared, adaptable, and responsive in the face of adversity and challenges.
Though grassroots efforts can be a highly effective means of change, response, and community support,
they are even more impactful when well-aligned with City, regional, and State-level efforts. This action is
focused on aligning neighborhood resilience programming with existing efforts such as Climate Smart
Montana, the Montana Resilience Framework, and the Southwest Montana Community Organizations
Active in Disaster (COAD) response, as well as expanding new resilience programming efforts.
The COVID-19 pandemic and resurgence of civil rights movements have highlighted the imperative of
neighborhood-level resilience and social cohesion. Though the impacts of this pandemic have been far-
reaching and severe, there are many lessons that Bozeman can carry forward to capture, build on, and
leverage the change and connections formed in response to COVID-19. For instance, the City will explore
the feasibility of institutionalizing mutual aid programs grown organically in response to COVID-19.
Other actions include hosting social infrastructure assessments and trainings, process debriefs and
listening sessions to better understand successes and areas of opportunity in response to shocks and
stressors, and community or neighborhood networking events to support social cohesion. The City will
also work to connect residents with resources for mental health and personal resilience.
The City can support local resilience building activities by connecting community partners with resources,
such as free meeting spaces or community-building grants to support small-scale cohesion activities and
projects.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan
Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Greater Gallatin United
Way
• Inter Neighborhood
Council
• Community Organizations
Active in Disaster (COAD)
• Bozeman Mutual Aid
Network
• Bozeman Community
Foundation
• Bozeman Help Center
• HRDC and Gallatin Valley
Food Bank
• 1.1 Outreach
• 3.2 Health &
Safety Action
• 6.3 Climate
Action
• Development of a resilient
neighborhoods toolkit
• Number of City-organized or
partnered trainings or events
Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 97
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
The following opportunities and considerations summarize how the solutions in this chapter can help
improve resiliency to future climate hazards.
Opportunities Considerations
Extreme Heat
• Compact development can reduce distance
needed to travel to access goods and
services, which may be helpful during periods
of extreme heat.
• Public facilities can be designed to provide
community members a refuge from extreme
heat.
• Development can be designed to reduce
pavement and incorporate trees and green
infrastructure to mitigate potential urban
heat island impacts.
• Compact development without the
incorporation of green infrastructure could
increase in average urban temperatures
Flooding
• Green stormwater infrastructure can slow
the influx of water and reduce vulnerability
to flooding.
• Avoiding construction in flood prone areas
will reduce risk posed to new development.
• Compact development and increased
volumes of water during flooding events will
increase demands on stormwater planning
and infrastructure.
• Much of Bozeman’s land area is located in
areas with a high water table.
Drought & Mountain Snowpack
• Compact development can help reduce the
water demands associated with outdoor
landscaping.
• Frequent and intense periods of drought will
impact the City’s ability to accommodate
growth, meet the needs of water users, and
provide essential municipal services.
Wildfire
• Neighborhoods near WUI areas can be
designed with wildfire considerations and
emergency access in mind.
• Compact developments within or near WUI
areas may put large populations at risk of
smoke exposure or property loss if wildfire
occurs.
Winter Storms
• Compact development decreases miles of
streets that need to be plowed.
• Compact development can reduce distance
needed to travel to access goods and
services, which may be beneficial during
winter storms.
• Compact development needs to
accommodate snow removal equipment and
snow storage.
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 98
FOCUS AREA 4. DIVERSE & ACCESSIBLE TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS
In 2018, the transportation sector accounted for 38% of
total emissions in Bozeman. Emissions from this sector are
on the rise with total vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per
person increasing and a large share of transportation
emissions coming from light-duty gas and diesel vehicles.
According to the Bozeman Community Plan, 70% of
Bozeman commuters drive alone, with an average
commute time of 14.5 minutes. Reductions in VMT can be
achieved through compact development patterns that
reduce trip lengths or needs, as well as pedestrian-centered
design that supports non-vehicular modes of travel such as
bicycling and walking.
Telecommuting can lead to significant reductions in VMT, but when coupled with increased reliance on e-
commerce activities and delivery services, those VMT reductions can be diminished. Emerging
transportation and vehicle technologies such as drones, self-driving cars, and shared and autonomous
fleets may also play a role in coming years in reducing trip volumes and overall VMT.
As the Bozeman community reaches a population greater than 50,000 residents (a likely milestone with
the 2020 Census), federal law mandates the establishment of a Metropolitan Planning Organization
(MPO). MPOs receive federal funds for carrying out transportation planning and programming in their
metropolitan areas. The MPO will be a new tool to assist the greater Bozeman area in all facets of
coordinated transportation planning and improvements.
As with the energy-related solutions, conservation and efficiency in the transportation system is essential
to reduce emissions. Higher-efficiency transportation solutions include carpooling, hybrid electric and
other fuel-efficient vehicles, and public transit. Streamline Transit, the Bozeman community bus service,
provides free fixed-route bus service in and around Bozeman as well as commuter routes to Belgrade and
Livingston. The highest conserving and least emitting transportation options include active and non-
vehicular modes such as walking, bicycling, and other micro-mobility equipment like scooters and
skateboards.
Just like the energy solutions that shift to more renewable energy sources, solutions to reduce
transportation emissions also include shifting vehicles and equipment fuels from gasoline and diesel to
electric and other alternative sources, such as biodiesel or hydrogen fuel cells. Solutions to address vehicle
efficiency and fuel types are applicable to both personal vehicles as well as fleet vehicles and equipment.
Now the busiest airport in Montana, the Bozeman-Yellowstone International Airport is also a growing
contributor to the community’s transportation emissions. Few alternatives to traditional air travel
RELATED PLANS & STUDIES
• 2020 Bozeman Yellowstone
International Airport Master
Plan
• Midtown Action Plan
• Redesign Streamline 2020
• Triangle Community Plan
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 99
currently exist, so the solutions in this chapter emphasize trip reduction and advocacy for new
technologies.
Because transportation-related emissions are an increasing portion of the City’s inventory, concerted
efforts will need to be made to reduce overall VMT, as well as greatly enhancing the efficiency of all
personal and fleet vehicles and equipment. To reduce VMT, enhance transportation efficiency, and reach
GHG emissions and community resiliency goals, the Bozeman community will need to:
• Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Shift travel modes away from single-occupancy vehicles and grow the percentage of community
members walking, bicycling, carpooling, avoiding or consolidating vehicle trips, and using transit.
• Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Promote and transition to more efficient vehicles, vehicles that use alternative fuels, and electric
vehicles.
• Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
Support the development of alternatives to traditional air travel, as well as offering alternatives
to air travel.
Detailed fuel and energy saving targets for each goal year are shown in Table 9: Projected transportation
mitigation targets.
Figure 19. Projected transportation GHG emissions reduction by solution
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 100
Table 9. Projected transportation mitigation targets
Target Target Target
Solution Metric (annual savings)
2025
Paris Accord
2030
100% Net Clean
Electricity
2050
Carbon Neutral
Solution J. Increase
Walking, Bicycling,
Carpooling and Use of
Transit
Gasoline Savings (gallon) 1.7 million 3.4 million 10.2 million
Solution K. Decrease
Direct Vehicle Emissions
Gasoline Savings (gallon) 180 million 2.7 million 10.6 million
Increased Electricity Use
(kWh) 6 million 19 million 74 million
Solution L. Improve Air
Travel Efficiency
GHG Emissions Reduction
(MT CO2e) 1,000 2,000 5,900
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 101
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
This solution focuses on increasing the percentage of community members walking, bicycling, carpooling,
avoiding or consolidating vehicle trips, and using transit. As noted in the Bozeman Community Plan, 16%
of Bozeman commuters walk or ride a bike, 6% work from home and less than 1% use public transit.
Influencing community members’ mode choice can be extremely challenging, as most people choose their
mode of transportation based first on convenience, and then on cost. In response to COVID-19 and
resulting social distancing guidelines, working from home practices have become more prevalent in many
workplaces. The widespread implementation of work from home practices, including the expansion of
digital communication capabilities, may have a significant impact in the percent of employees working
from home in the future.
Unfortunately, the cost of the private car and parking infrastructure is hidden and difficult to fully quantify.
Many American cities have grown and developed around the easy mobility of the private car, resulting in
expansive street miles with corresponding miles of water, sewer, gas, and electric infrastructure with
public and private parking spaces—thus spreading infrastructure demands across a larger area and
thinning the tax base needed to fund city services. Further, vehicle traffic violations and accidents require
extensive parking and traffic patrol and contribute a large percent of ambulance calls, emergency room
visits, and case load in the justice system. Cities may need to closely examine the full costs and benefits
of all modes of transportation when making mobility infrastructure investments.
There are several mechanisms to facilitate the transition away from private cars, and especially cars
moving a single driver. Building high-quality, accessible infrastructure is a primary means of encouraging
active forms of transportation. Bike lanes physically separated from traffic can create a safer experience
for bicyclists. Sidewalks should be wide enough to accommodate multiple users and should also be
separated from vehicular traffic (i.e., setback from the road or lined with trees or planters to create a
physical separation). Sidewalks that have degraded or were not constructed to meet ADA design
requirements, should be rebuilt to meet these standards.
However, access to high-quality infrastructure is not enough to influence mode choice. Trip length is a
major consideration when selecting a mode of transportation. Compact development can help to shorten
trip lengths by reducing the distance between residents, employment opportunities, and goods and
services. Parking can also play a factor in mode choice. If parking is widely available and inexpensive,
community members may be incentivized to travel by car, given the extreme importance of convenience.
Finally, education can play an important role in influencing mode choice. In some cases, community
members may be unaware of transportation options or feel uncomfortable using those transportation
options other than personal vehicles. Connecting residents with resources that will gain them confidence
in the convenience, safety, and benefits of active modes of transportation and transit can help remove
barriers that keep people from choosing alternatives to their cars.
The City and other community partners can help to increase the adoption of active modes of
transportation by reducing financial barriers or even providing financial incentives. While transit in
Bozeman is free, large businesses may provide a financial incentive for employees to use an active mode
of transportation. However, infrastructure can still be very expensive and must be completed in
conjunction with other measures, such as shortening trip lengths and education. Fortunately, various
grant programs exist at the state and federal levels to support the development of active transportation
infrastructure and education programs.
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 102
Removing barriers to active modes of transportation can enable community members to
engage in more cost-effective means of travel. For example, improving access to public
transit for low-income community members can reduce the transportation burden for those
forced to live further from goods and services due to the cost of housing. Similarly, this
solution expands mobility and accessibility for the portion of the community population that
cannot drive due to physical abilities, age, and/or income.
Alternatively, some community members may maintain a need for car ownership and travel.
Penalizing car trips through disincentives (i.e., restricting parking or increasing the cost of
parking) may disproportionately impact residents who rely on car travel. One potential
solution could be to increase the availability of affordable housing options near activity
centers.
In addition to reducing pollution associated with car travel, participating in active modes of
transportation can improve physical and mental health. Some emerging modes of efficient
transportation, such as e-bikes and e-scooters can increase mobility options for some but
may discourage more active forms of transportation and, without careful planning, may
present a hazard to those with certain disabilities, such as persons with visual impairments.
Finally, as on-demand transportation increases in popularity for first- and last-mile
connections, excessive idling and circulating may offset air quality benefits of reducing car
trips.
The City of Bozeman can lead by example by continuing to maintain its status as a Silver Bike
Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, implementing complete streets
projects in neighborhoods underserved by active transportation infrastructure, and by
continuing to use a complete streets model for the construction of new streets and street
reconstruction efforts.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s greenhouse gas mitigation goals, while also providing
supporting resiliency benefits.
Emissions Reduction Potential
Resiliency Benefits
This is a supporting mitigation
solution to achieve the 2025, 2030,
and 2050 mitigation goals.
Emission sources impacted include:
• Gasoline/Diesel
• Conserve natural resources
• Increase social cohesion
• Protect human health
Related Solutions
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
• Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
• Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 103
Action 4.J.1. Prioritize Regional Multi-modal Planning and Connectivity
Providing high quality, safe, and accessible
infrastructure to support a diversity of
transportation options is a foundational
step toward reducing the percent of
people who drive alone. Though providing
connectivity within an activity area is
critical, it is also important to provide safe,
convenient access to and from
destinations. Thus, ensuring the adoption
of multi-modal forms of transportation will
require a coordinated effort amongst
existing and future agencies to prioritize
inclusive and diverse options for
transportation.
Environmental Data that is measured, verified, and reported is an important stepping stone to lower
emissions in the longer term. The 2017 Transportation Master Plan references greenhouse gas emissions
and health benefits to communicate the value of active transportation. Future transportation plans will
incorporate targets for total and per capita Vehicle Miles Traveled and greenhouse gas emissions
reductions.
The Gallatin Triangle Planning Study and the Bozeman Transportation Master Plan establish a foundation
of planning for multi-modal infrastructure. The aim of this action is to work in conjunction with other
solutions, such as “Facilitate Compact Development Patterns” and “Enhance Social Infrastructure and
Community Preparedness” to provide a more inclusive and systemic view of the region’s transportation
system. Future planning efforts should include a diversity of perspectives, including persons with
disabilities, low-income households, City and County service partners, and City and County planning
departments. Outcomes of future planning efforts might include a guiding policy document, which
outlines a hierarchy of travel, deprioritizing travel by car, while elevating mobility for Bozeman’s most
vulnerable community members.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Gallatin County
• City of Belgrade
• Montana Department of
Transportation
• Bozeman Area Bicycle
Advisory Board
• Pedestrian Traffic Safety
Committee
• Bridger Bowl
• Human Resource
Development Council
• 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure Choices
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• % increase in walking,
biking, carpool, and
transit commuting
• Formation of and
participation in regional
planning entity such as a
Metropolitan Planning
Organization (MPO)
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 104
Action 4.J.2. Pursue Innovative Funding for Pedestrian and Bicycle Connections and Network
This action focuses on identifying options for implementing plans and physically expanding and bolstering
Bozeman’s bicycle and pedestrian network. Note, the term “bicycle and pedestrian” is intended to be all
encompassing and includes e-bikes, e-scooters, mobility scooters, and other forms of non-car travel. The
City of Bozeman continues to invest in bike and pedestrian infrastructure through a combination of local
and private funding sources. Through the City’s Complete Streets principles are applied on new City
projects, privately funded development, and incrementally through a series of smaller improvements and
activities over time. Examples of innovative funding efforts have included bonds and urban renewal
districts.
Future bicycle and pedestrian projects should respond to existing and future gap analyses, such as those
conducted in the Bozeman Transportation Master Plan or through walking audits. In conjunction with
adding more miles of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, the City will explore opportunities to bolster
existing infrastructure to better serve all needs. For example, making intersection improvements, adding
signs to cue motorists to share the road, or narrowing travel lanes marginally to accommodate bicycle and
pedestrian infrastructure are just a few ways to transform existing infrastructure to better meet the needs
of bicyclists and pedestrians. Other actions the City will consider include mapping all bike routes classified
by comfort level, implementing more robust wayfinding, and identifying funding sources for protected
and/or grade separated trail infrastructure.
The City will also seek opportunities to partner with developers to encourage the addition of new multi-
modal amenities as part of development and redevelopment projects (see Action 3.G.2.). Updating
transportation design standards and policies to better reflect all needs and abilities, including e-bikes and
emerging technologies, will be an important first step to provide clear direction to developers. To prepare
for autonomous and low-speed modes that may compromise pedestrian safety, planning and defining
appropriate non-car travel on sidewalks, bike lanes, and shared use paths will be part of this update.
As specified in the 2017 Transportation Master Plan, ensure that the Unified Development Ordinance is
amended to require sidewalk construction as a basic component of subdivisions and should be installed
with the streets and utilities before individual lots are developed.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Gallatin Valley Land Trust
• Bzmn Area Bicycle Advisory Board
• Montana Dept. of Transportation
• Pedestrian Traffic Safety
Committee
• Gallatin Valley Bicycle Club
• Bridger Bowl
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• 6.5 Parks, Trails, and
Open Space
• % increase in
walking, biking,
carpool, and
transit commuting
• Reduction in per
capita vehicle
miles traveled
• Increase in
network size and
connection (i.e.,
miles of new bike
lanes or sidewalks)
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 105
Action 4.J.3. Improve Maintenance of Multi-Modal Infrastructure
Once multi-modal infrastructure is developed, maintenance is a critical process for ensuring the reliability
and safety of that infrastructure. For instance, prioritizing shared-use, separated paths for plowing after
a winter storm will ensure a safe path of travel for bicyclists and pedestrians who prefer or rely on these
paths for travel.
Additionally, proper maintenance can sometimes avoid the need to expand or extend infrastructure. For
instance, intersection improvements can improve traffic flow without adding vehicle lanes, and dedicating
existing lanes for carpool, vanpool, or transit can help prioritize alternative modes without the need for
an expansion project. Improving lighting and wayfinding is another way the City can enhance multi-modal
infrastructure to improve safety and encourage use.
As part of this action, Bozeman will seek to identify funding mechanisms, funding sources, and
implementation partners to dedicate to the development and implementation of a maintenance program
for multi-modal infrastructure. Private properties can play an important role in maintenance as well, by
actions such as shoveling snow immediately following a winter storm or parking off the street to
accommodate for snow storage while still allowing bicycle access.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measure
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Gallatin Valley Land Trust
• Bozeman Area Bicycle Board
• Pedestrian Traffic Safety
Committee
• Montana Department of
Transportation
• Bridger Bowl
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• 6.5 Parks, Trails, and
Open Space
• Annual miles of bike lane
and shared-use path
sweeping, cleaning, and
plowing
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 106
Action 4.J.4. Pursue Sustainable Transit Funding and Expansion
Accessible and reliable transit options are a critical component of a high-functioning multi-modal system.
This action focuses on identifying a dedicated funding source to support and expand Bozeman’s existing
transit system. Streamline Transit provides Bozeman community members with fixed route bus service,
campus shuttles, paratransit services, and transportation to and from Bridger Bowl.
Though funding is an important driver for establishing or expanding transit systems, a community must
first, or at least concurrently, work toward developing in a manner that supports transit. For instance, it
may be challenging to support transit in areas with fewer than 12 to 16 people per acre. In addition to
ensuring zoning districts allow the right mix of land uses and number of units, the City can work with
developers to incentivize transit-oriented development (TOD) along existing or planned transit routes.
TODs are typically characterized as mixed-use districts, with enough jobs, residential units, and/or
attractions and amenities to support transit. Other features of TODs include walkability and bikeability, to
ensure commuters can connect to and from transit stops. Many of the other actions in this solution will
be critical to providing first and final mile connections to and from transit stops.
Though reliable, fixed-route transit is often the backbone of a high-functioning transit system, many
communities have identified significant need for on-demand microtransit (e.g., cars and vans) and
micromobility (e.g., bikesharing and e-scooters) to act as an extension of regular transportation services.
Enabled by transportation technology, these flexible solutions can provide curb-to-curb or stop-to-stop
service. Sometimes referred to as Mobility as a Service, through integrated technology and public and
private partnerships, microtransit can be crucial for helping connect the entire community to central
transit lines, especially older adults or persons with a disability.
As Bozeman’s transit system grows and evolves with an emphasis on Transit Oriented Development and
Mobility as a Service, the City will work with partners to identify dedicated transit funding to help ensure
the maintenance and expansion of Bozeman’s transit system. Funding may come from several sources,
such as the formation of a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Regional Transit Authority,
transportation improvement district, or other avenues such as tolls or fees. As avenues for funding are
identified, the City may conduct the following feasibility studies to inform investment of transit dollars:
integration of transit signal priority, expansion of Park and Ride and routes, including circulator routes for
downtown and the airport.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measure
Level 1 • Streamline Transit
• City of Bozeman
• Gallatin County
• City of Belgrade
• Montana State University
• Montana Department of
Transportation
• Bridger Bowl
• Human Resource
Development Council
• 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure
Choices
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Increased transit
ridership
• Reduction in per capita
vehicle miles traveled
• # of new transit
connections
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 107
Action 4.J.5. Support Employee Trip Reduction Programs and Transportation Demand
Management
The majority of road congestion in the morning and afternoon is the result of employees commuting to
and from work during the same time frame. This action focuses on reducing the total number of trips
taken by employees and shifting those trips away from morning and afternoon rush hours whenever
possible. Reducing the number of vehicles traveling during peak times is often referred to as
Transportation Demand Management (TDM). Already, the City of Bozeman has a number of TDM
strategies in place as part of the Bozeman Transportation Master Plan. The City plans to add a TDM
coordinator in the 2021 fiscal year to lead the implementation of these efforts.
In addition to building and maintaining a more robust multi-modal network, TDM focuses on education,
outreach, and partnerships. Efforts may include hosting workshops, webinars, or temporarily closing
streets to cars for “Open Streets” events to provide resources to the community on the options, benefits,
and “How Tos” of multi-modal transportation. Outreach efforts will promote new efforts and tools to help
navigate transportation options, such as the commuter management and ridesharing platform “Ride
Amigos” launched through the Bozeman Commuter Project. Additionally, the City will partner with large
employers to encourage or require the adoption of company specific performance-based TDM programs.
For instance, organizations can provide a transportation incentive for employees that walk, bike, carpool
or use transit to get to work.
In addition to helping employees shift how they get to work, TDM strategies will help shift when
employees go to work. Companies can lead by example by allowing flexible work schedules or instating
more robust work from home policies. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies have
been forced to adapt work flows to allow employees to work from home. Continuing to require and/or
allow employees to work from home could have a significant and positive impact on transportation
demand.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • Streamline Transit
• City of Bozeman
• Gallatin County
• City of Belgrade
• Montana State University
• Montana Department of
Transportation
• Bridger Bowl
• Major employers (e.g., Bozeman
Health, Oracle, BSD7, Zoot, Simms)
• Human Resource Development
Council
• 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure
Choices
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Increased transit
ridership
• Reduction in per
capita vehicle miles
traveled
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 108
Action 4.J.6. Support Regional Transit Service Coordination and Outreach
Beyond local transit service, connections to the
greater region are a significant need in order to
reduce vehicle trips and mitigate traffic
congestion from tourism and population
growth. While Streamline Transit provides
Bozeman community members with fixed route
bus service, campus shuttles, paratransit
services, and transportation to and from Bridger
Bowl, more can be done to connect Bozeman to
other communities and regional destinations.
This action focuses on working with private and
public transport operators to expand transit
service between major regional cities and
visitor destinations. It also includes exploring
the feasibility of a train system to connect
regional destinations, including showing
support for restoring the North Coast Hiawatha
Route passenger rail.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Regional Cities
• Streamline Transportation
• Sky Line Transportation
• Montana State University
• Chamber of Commerce
• 2.2 Infrastructure
Investments
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Expansion of
transit service
within the region
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 109
Action 4.J.7. Leverage Parking Policies to Encourage Other Modes of Transportation
Parking infrastructure and policy play a significant role in vehicle use, vehicle miles traveled (VMT), and
emissions. An abundance of free parking encourages and enables the decision to drive versus walking,
biking, carpooling, or using transit.
Public and private parking inventory, Unified Development Code parking requirements, and parking
management all influence mode choice. This action reinforces coordination with other transportation
studies and plans to ensure that the community’s parking paradigm and policies strengthen and support
planned transit, bicycle, and pedestrian infrastructure improvements.
Where expanded access to multi-modal transportation options are available, the City will pursue updates
to the Unified Development Code that eliminate minimum parking requirements in commercial districts
and affordable housing projects and reduce parking minimums elsewhere (see Community Plan M-1.12).
Further, the City will proactively coordinate with Montana State University to ensure complementary
parking management strategies that encourage multi-modal transportation options.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Parking Commission
• Montana State University
• Chamber of Commerce
• 2.2 Infrastructure
Investments
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Increased transit
ridership
• Reduction in per capita
vehicle miles traveled
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 110
Action 4.J.8. Develop Bike and Car Share Programs
Bike, scooter, and car share programs help to increase access to alternative modes of transportation
without significant investment on behalf of users. Vehicle share programs can all be used to improve first-
and last-mile connections to and from transit. Car share programs in particular can help reduce the need
for a second vehicle for households. As part of this action, the City will explore the feasibility of a
community vehicle share program. Implementation of this program (or programs) may be City-led, a
public-private partnership, or a private system.
For bike and scooter share programs, electric options can help improve mobility for some participants.
However, if electric options are considered, the City will look to peer communities to identify best
practices and policies for enhancing safety and reducing pedestrian-vehicular traffic conflicts. Similarly, a
car share program could also showcase electric vehicles. Many studies have shown that drivers exposed
to electric vehicles are significantly more likely to purchase one. Thus, including electric vehicles as part
of a car share program could complement efforts identified in Solution K.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 3 • City of Bozeman
• Downtown Bozeman Partnership
• Montana State University
• Bozeman Area Bicycle Advisory
Board
• Gallatin Valley Bicycle Club
• High demand districts (e.g.,
Cannery District, Northeast
Neighborhood)
• 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure
Choices
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Increased transit
ridership
• Reduction in per
capita vehicle miles
traveled
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 111
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Despite best efforts, some portion
of community trips will always
require a vehicle. Even though
transit can be more efficient on a
per-person basis, traditional
diesel buses emit large amounts
of pollutants and greenhouse
gases. Thus, this solution focuses
on promoting more efficient
vehicles, vehicles that use
alternative fuels, and electric
vehicles.
Many barriers exist to the
adoption of electric vehicles (EVs),
including range anxiety, cost of
procurement, and limited local
availability. Some limited federal
and state incentives are available
to assist in the procurement of
alternative fuel vehicles and
electric vehicle supply
infrastructure. Leading by
example can be an important
mechanism for spurring the
private adoption of electric
vehicles. Advertising electric fleet
vehicles and making public
charging stations visible and readily available can help build trust in community members. Public-private
partnerships are another effective avenue for encouraging the expansion of electric vehicle supply
infrastructure. Other ways to remove barriers can include requiring new construction to be pre-wired for
electric vehicle charging or even requiring the provision of “preferred parking” for electric vehicles.
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 112
Ideally, all trips made via car, van, or public transit would do so using efficient, alternative
fuel, and/or electric vehicles. Unfortunately, at this time, the price of these vehicles can be
cost-prohibitive. For electric vehicles specifically, there is little to no market for used
vehicles. One option to overcome this barrier is to support an electric vehicle car share,
which would enable community members to access electric vehicles without the initial
procurement costs. Electrifying transit fleets is another good means of providing access to
cleaner means of transportation.
Decreasing direct vehicle emissions can improve air quality, which can reduce the risk of
associated illnesses, such as respiratory and heart disease.
The City of Bozeman can lead by example by electrifying its light and medium duty fleet and
by installing public charging stations at City facilities. The City can continue to encourage
the conversion of all transit fleet vehicles to electric or hybrid options.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s greenhouse gas mitigation goals, while also
providing supporting resiliency benefits.
Emissions Reduction Benefits
Resiliency Benefits
This is a supporting mitigation
solution to achieve the 2025 and
2030 mitigation goals and a
primary solution to achieve the
2050 goal.
Emission sources impacted include:
• Gasoline/Diesel
• Electricity
• Conserve natural resources
• Protect human health
Related Solutions
• Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
• Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
• Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 113
Action 4.K.1. Support Community EV Roadmap Development
An EV roadmap is a first step toward increasing the number of EVs in a community. An EV roadmap
typically identifies a community vision, goal(s), and strategies to increase the total number of EVs on the
road. This action seeks to build on the work completed to date by the Montana Solar Powered Community
Transportation Initiative to draft a comprehensive EV roadmap for the City of Bozeman.
This roadmap will establish Bozeman’s EV baseline, including approximate number of registered EVs in
Bozeman and existing EV infrastructure. The roadmap will identify key steps the community can take to
improve from that baseline.
Strategies within the roadmap
would include an evaluation of
actions, such as requiring a
certain percentage of parking
spaces be EV-ready for new
construction and coordinated
utility distribution system
planning. Key community
stakeholders will include
utility representatives, City
staff, MSU representatives,
and others listed below.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• NorthWestern Energy
• Downtown Bozeman Partnership
• Montana State University
• Chamber of Commerce
• Montana Dept. of Environmental
Quality
• Yellowstone Teton Clean Cities
• 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure
Choices
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Increase % of EVs
and PHEVs
registered in
Gallatin County
• Reduce emissions
per vehicle mile
traveled
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 114
Action 4.K.2. Collaborate to Install Publicly Accessible EV Infrastructure
Though the majority of EV charging occurs
at home, access to public EV charging
infrastructure is still often cited as one of
the biggest barriers to EV adoption.
Providing publicly available charging
infrastructure at City facilities, workplaces,
and key destinations can significantly
reduce barriers to adoption by signaling
that EVs are a priority and that EV owners
will always have access to charging
infrastructure.
While the City may choose to provide some
publicly available infrastructure, public-
private partnerships and private
investment will be crucial to sufficiently
build out the necessary charging
infrastructure. Charging stations should be
right-sized to match the typical time spent
in a location. For instance, Level 2 charging
stations are appropriate for businesses or
destinations where community members
may typically spend 2 to 4 hours. Level 3, or
DC fast chargers, are more appropriate for major travel corridors, such as I-90, to facilitate quick charging
while travelers stop at rest stops, gas stations, etc. Montana State University will be a key partner as they
embark on an EV charging station pilot in 2020.
As part of this action and in conjunction with Action 4.J.6., the City may explore charging stations for
electric bikes, electric scooters, and EVs as part of a vehicle-sharing program.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• NorthWestern Energy
• Downtown Bozeman Partnership
• Montana State University
• Chamber of Commerce
• Montana Dept. of Environmental
Quality
• Yellowstone Teton Clean Cities
• 2.1 Business Growth
• 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure
Choices
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation
Choices
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Number of public
charging stations
• Increase % of EVs
and PHEVs
registered in
Gallatin County
• Reduce emissions
per vehicle mile
traveled
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 115
Action 4.K.3. City Fleet and Transit EV Investment
One of the best ways Bozeman can lead by example is to invest in EVs for City fleet and Streamline Transit
vehicles. As part of the EV roadmap, or under a separate effort, the City of Bozeman can identify a path
for electrifying and modernizing the City’s fleet. The first step in developing an action plan for fleet
electrification is connecting with NorthWestern Energy. NorthWestern Energy can help the City identify
areas with enough capacity to handle additional electricity demand and areas that may require additional
investment. Once conversations with the utility have been initiated, the next step of fleet electrification
is to consider a telematics study, which can help identify vehicles most eligible for EV replacement and
the best EV models for the job. Following this step, the City may update their vehicle purchasing policy in
conjunction with their vehicle replacement plan to meet electrification targets. Additional factors of fleet
electrification include developing charging infrastructure and charging plans, conducting employee
outreach and education, and coordinating training and maintenance. The Climate Mayor’s EV Purchasing
Collaborative may serve as a useful resource for preliminary efforts.
Preliminary fleet electrification activities should focus on the City’s light-duty fleet, though the City may
also consider and put policies in place to prepare for the electrification of heavy-duty vehicles as
applicable. Where full electrification is not possible, the City may pursue other alternative fuel sources
such as natural gas or biofuels.
Finally, the City will also work with Streamline Transit to conduct an updated feasibility analysis for
electrifying transit vehicles.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Streamline Transit
• City of Belgrade
• Gallatin County
• Montana State University
• Bozeman Health
• Big Sky Resort
• Bridger Bowl
• 2.1 Business Growth
• 4.3 Strategic Infrastructure
Choices
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation Choices
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Improve light-duty
city fleet average
MPG
• Reduce emissions
per vehicle mile
traveled
• % of fleet
converted to EV
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 116
Action 4.K.4. Advocate for EV Utility Rates, Incentives, Infrastructure, and Efficiency Standards
Advocacy will be an important aspect of implementation for this plan and can have broad and meaningful
impacts toward reducing direct vehicle emissions. This action focuses on connecting partners and building
community support to lead a broad range of advocacy efforts. Topics for EV advocacy may be split broadly
into two categories: vehicle emissions standards and support for alternative fuel vehicles.
This plan encourages local advocates to engage state and federal policy makers to continue improving
vehicle emissions standards (for instance, through a State-wide zero emission vehicle standard). Zero
emission vehicles require manufacturers to manufacture a certain percent of zero emission vehicles as
part of their fleet. In addition to reducing the overall potential emissions of a manufacturer’s fleet, this
would also increase market availability of efficient and alternative fuel vehicles. Alternatively, or in
conjunction, supporters might advocate for state and federal tax credits and financial incentives for fuel-
efficient and alternative fuel vehicles. Tax credits and financial incentives may help provide greater access
to efficient and alternative-fuel vehicles. Ultimately, an uptick in these vehicles is expected to lower
production costs in the long run as manufacturers realize economies of scale and technology continues to
advance.
Finally, City of Bozeman partners could work with NorthWestern Energy to advocate for the development
of an EV infrastructure plan and innovative funding models. Currently, NorthWestern Energy is exploring
the possibility of an off-peak charging rate. EVs hold a lot of potential for evening out demand curves if
the majority of charging occurs during off-peak hours. Off-peak charging incentives could produce a win-
win for the utility and customers.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Streamline Transit
• Montana Dept. of
Environmental Quality
• Montana Legislature
• NorthWestern Energy
• Public Service Commission
• 2.1 Business Growth
• 4.3 Strategic Infrastructure
Choices
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation Choices
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Improved state
efficiency and
emissions
standards
• Establishment of
utility rate to
incentivize off-peak
EV charging
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 117
Action 4.K.5. Limit Wasteful Vehicle Emissions
Wasteful vehicle emissions occur when vehicles are circulating or idling unnecessarily. This action focuses
on implementing policies and educational campaigns to reduce unnecessary emissions. Steps the City
could take include establishing and enforcing an anti-idling policy. This policy could apply to semi-trucks,
delivery trucks, transit buses, tour buses, construction equipment, and/or light-duty vehicles. The City
might partner with local businesses to help enforce anti-idling policies. Adding signage in common
locations, such as near pre-schools, can be another mechanism for encouraging drivers to turn off their
vehicles.
Another common contributor to wasteful emissions is the result of circulating in search of parking.
Installing smart parking signs, which tell travelers where spaces are available in a lot or garage, can reduce
time spent circling for a spot. Of course, encouraging community members and visitors to rely on active
modes and transit to destinations is another great way to avoid emissions associated with circulation. The
City may also explore options to prohibit vehicles from driving exclusively for advertising.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Streamline Transit
• Montana Dept. of Environmental
Quality
• Yellowstone Teton Clean Cities
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Reduce Particulate
Matter (PM)
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 118
Action 4.K.6. Support EV Group Buy and Outreach
This action focuses on providing EV outreach and education to help address adoption barriers related to
misinformation. As part of this action, the City can partner with Yellowstone-Teton Clean Cities to develop
an educational campaign, organize a ride-and-drive, or organize group buys. Group buys are typically
orchestrated in partnership with local dealerships and can significantly reduce the cost of purchasing an
electric vehicle by offering a discount when multiple parties agree to purchase at once. Other educational
partners may include the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and Western Transportation
Institute. Topics of educational materials should include the financial benefits of EV ownership,
information about various types of charging infrastructure, how to pick the right vehicle to suit individual
needs, and environmental benefits, among others.
While replacing conventional internal combustion engine vehicles with EVs can reduce direct tailpipe
emissions, EV adoption will not reduce congestion. Thus, efforts promoting EV use should still occur in
conjunction with efforts promoting the reduction of trips overall and replacement of trips with alternative
modes of transportation whenever possible.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 3 • City of Bozeman
• Montana Dept. of
Environmental Quality
• Yellowstone-Teton Clean
Cities
• NorthWestern Energy
• Car dealerships
• Major employers
• 2.1 Business Growth
• 4.5 Housing and
Transportation Choices
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Increase % of EVs
and PHEVs
registered in
Gallatin County
• Reduce emissions
per vehicle mile
traveled
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 119
Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
This solution is focused on supporting the
development of alternatives to traditional air
travel. It includes technology improvements to
enhance the fuel efficiency of air fleets, as well as
offering alternatives to air travel which could
include shared rides and vehicles, shuttles and
buses, rail transportation, and even more
advanced technologies such as hyperloops.
Air travel and tourism provide tremendous
economic benefits to the Bozeman community,
and the Bozeman Yellowstone International
Airport is the busiest in the state. This solution
does not seek to eliminate or reduce visitation to
Bozeman, but instead focuses on making travel to
and from Bozeman more efficient and less
impactful from an emissions perspective.
Advancing this solution requires advocacy and
standards for the airline industry to adopt new
technologies and operate more efficiency.
In addition to more efficient air travel, this
solution also includes the development of air travel alternatives at the regional scale. Alternatives like
shuttles and buses necessitate collaboration with other regional partners including tourist destinations
and attractions, such as nearby national and state parks, trailheads, ski areas, and Montana State
University. Furthermore, such alternatives should also seek to provide alternatives to traditional vehicle
travel and leverage electric or alternative fuel technology to create even further emissions reduction
benefits.
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 120
Though airline travel can have a big impact on greenhouse gas emissions, resources
earmarked for mitigating air travel are only relevant to community members with means
and access to airline travel. Thus, the resources spent reducing a very specific portion of
emissions could have a much larger, positive impact on equity issues elsewhere.
Still, mitigating emissions from air travel could reduce noise and air pollution associated with
plane travel. Since it is likely that members of the community living proximate to the airport
do not have the resources to relocate, reducing noise and air pollution could have a positive
equity impact on those community members.
The City of Bozeman does not have authority over the airport operations (the airport is
owned by the Gallatin Airport Authority) or operate a local bus system. However, the City
can continue to invest in the Streamline system (operated by the Human Resources
Development Council) and support connections to other regional transit services to provide
other alternatives to regional air travel.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s greenhouse gas mitigation goals, while also providing some
supporting resiliency benefits.
Emissions Reduction Benefits
Resilience Benefits
This is a supporting mitigation
solution to achieve the 2025,
2030, and 2050 mitigation goals.
Emission sources impacted
include:
• Diesel
• Conserve natural resources
• Protect human health
Related Solutions
• Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 121
Action 4.L.1. Build Awareness of Air Travel Impacts and Alternatives
This action focuses on promoting alternative modes of travel in place of air travel. In partnership with City
departments and community organizations, implementation of this action will include development of
educational materials to increase awareness of the impacts of flying, share alternative modes of
transportation, and encourage community members to remain local. For instance, short airline trips can
be replaced with car, bus, or train travel. Air travel for business can be avoided if meetings are replaced
with teleconferencing and other remote communication and engagement tools.
In particular, the City of Bozeman can lead by example by limiting meetings for which City employees must
fly and even by limiting instances that require contractors to fly into Bozeman. Finally, the City of Bozeman
can partner with the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport to encouraging passengers to offset
carbon emissions or through signage at the airport or through the ticket purchasing process.
Priority Lead & Implementing
Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State
University
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Reduced annual employee air
travel miles
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 122
Action 4.L.2. Advocate for Increased Air Travel Efficiency
The carbon intensity of flying is significant, with varying levels of fuel efficiency and carbon intensity
among commercial carriers. Currently, no local, state or federal fuel efficiency requirements exist for air
travel in the United States.
This action is a call for the Bozeman community to advocate for stringent efficiency standards for air
travel. City partners and community representatives can engage in state and federal-level advocacy to
promote more fuel efficient and alternative-fuel air travel.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 3 • City of Bozeman
• Bozeman Yellowstone
International Airport
• Montana State University
• Chamber of Commerce
• Montana Dept. of
Environmental Quality
• 2.2 Infrastructure
Investments
• 6.2 Protect Local Air
Quality
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Reduced emissions per
passenger trip
Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 123
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
The following opportunities and considerations summarize how the solutions in this chapter can help
improve resiliency to future climate hazards.
Opportunities Considerations
Extreme Heat
• Replacing or shading parking areas can
mitigate urban heat island impacts.
• Mitigating vehicle emissions could improve
air pollution typically worsened on hot days
• Active forms of transportation (such as biking
and walking) can be dangerous in extreme
heat.
• Active transportation routes should be
designed with trees, shade structures, and
with stations to refill water.
Flooding
• EVs could release fewer pollutants than
internal combustion engine vehicles during
flood events.
• A frequent and reliable transit system can
provide community members with a safe
mode of travel during flooding.
• Infrastructure built to support alternative
modes of transportation must be designed to
withstand flood events.
• Active forms of transportation may be
difficult or dangerous in the event of
flooding.
Drought & Mountain Snowpack
• Transit service to nearby ski areas may need
to expand beyond winter months as ski
resorts add activities in other seasons in
anticipation of reduced snowpack.
• Severe droughts can lead to an increase in
particulate matter, which can exacerbate
respiratory issues for people walking and
biking.
Wildfire
• A robust transit system could help evacuate
residents in the event of a wildfire.
• Active transportation may be limited during
periods of poor air quality.
• Severe wildfires can disrupt transit service
and routes.
Winter Storms
• A transit system can provide a convenient,
safe, and affordable mode of transportation
when snow/ice make walking, biking, or
driving difficult or dangerous.
• Active transportation (e.g., biking and
walking) could be disrupted by deep snow.
• Active transportation infrastructure must be
plowed regularly to maintain a diverse
network of options.
• Electric vehicles and buses may lose range in
extremely cold weather.
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 124
FOCUS AREA 5. COMPREHENSIVE & SUSTAINABLE WASTE REDUCTION
Emissions from landfilled waste accounted for 5% of
Bozeman’s emissions in 2016, and emissions from this
sector are on the rise due to increases in construction waste
and municipal solid waste. Despite these challenges, on a
per-capita basis, total landfilled waste is declining, meaning
that efforts to reduce, reuse, and recycle waste are showing
signs of progress.
The solution in this chapter emphasizes a comprehensive
and system-wide approach to address community waste. It
takes into account the current realities of the waste
industry and helps Bozeman reimagine a new type of economy which is circular in nature and that
provides more sustainable long-term solutions for reducing and managing waste.
Emissions from the decomposition of waste make up a relatively small portion of the City’s GHG emissions
footprint, so the overall impact of these solutions on the City’s emissions goals is limited. These solutions
do however have strong impact on the regional and global emissions for the production and
transportation of goods, which is not reflected in the City’s inventory. In order to optimize the emission
mitigation and resiliency potential, the Bozeman community will need to:
• Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
Manage solid waste through a hierarchy of source reduction, reuse, recycling, composting and
anaerobic digestion, and waste to energy conversion, with landfilling waste as a last resort.
Detailed waste-related targets for each goal year are shown in Table 10.
RELATED PROGRAMS
& RESOURCES
• City Compost Collection
• Single-Stream Recycling
• Cleanup Bozeman Program
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 125
Figure 20. Projected waste GHG emissions reduction by solution
Table 10. Projected waste reduction mitigation targets
Target Target Target
Solution Metric (annual savings)
2025
Paris Accord
2030
100% Net Clean
Electricity
2050
Carbon Neutral
Solution M. Move
Toward a Circular
Economy and Zero
Waste Community
GHG Emissions Savings
(MT CO2e) 7,100 14,100 42,300
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 126
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
This solution focuses on the
management of solid waste through
a hierarchy of source reduction,
reuse, recycling, composting and
anaerobic digestion, and waste to
energy conversion, with landfilling
waste as a last resort. Waste
reduction is strongly influenced by
upstream production practices and
the availability of services such as
composting and recycling. As such,
this solution requires an economy-
wide effort—one that aims to
eliminate waste and keep resources
in use for as long as possible. This
concept of a circular economy works
in tandem with the goal of zero
waste, which aims to prevent waste
from being sent to landfills.
Source reduction is simply waste
prevention, or the elimination of
waste before it is created. This
approach involves refining supply
chain and purchasing practices to
stop waste before it happens. A
waste audit is a great way to begin to
understand the amount and types of waste generated.
Reuse is the practice of using an item or product again, either for its originally intended use, or for a new
use. Short of some resale shops and small-scale efforts, few comprehensive source reduction or reuse
programs or community-scale activities currently exist in Bozeman.
In high-growth communities, total waste tonnage often tracks with increases in population and
construction activities. Source reduction and reuse practices can help decouple trends in community
growth from total landfilled waste trends.
The City of Bozeman offers single-stream curbside recycling services for customers. Recycling is more
expensive than landfilling waste, and recent shifts in the global recycling market have resulted in changes
at the local level in terms of what can be collected and effectively recycled. For comprehensive recycling
services to be viable long-term, communities like Bozeman will need to work together to address recycling
market imbalances and challenges. Reduction in waste is far more environmentally friendly, efficient, and
cost-effective than relying heavily on recycling markets and services.
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 127
Composting and anaerobic digestion are processes that decompose organic materials such as yard waste
and food scraps to produce a nutrient-rich soil amendment that helps restore soil health. The City of
Bozeman offers seasonal yard waste compost collection to solid waste customers. One recent success
story is a food waste composting pilot with Montana State University, through which more than 540,000
pounds of organic materials were diverted from the landfill in 2018.
Decomposing organic waste releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Methane capture and recovery
projects can help reduce the methane emissions from landfills. Methane at Logan Landfill is currently
vented and released into the atmosphere. Methane from the closed Story Landfill is captured and flared.
There are many equity perspectives to examine when considering circular economy and zero
waste solutions. For many people, reducing consumption can free up financial resources and
support economic mobility. However, system-wide creation of more durable goods and
products can result in higher initial costs, which can limit access. With respect to recycling
and composting, residents of multi-family properties, visitors, and commercial properties
often face significantly more barriers to accessing these services than traditional curbside
residential waste customers. To make recycling and composting recycling services viable,
changes in waste rate structures or other disincentives are often necessary, which can be
onerous for lower income or cost-burdened community members. Similarly, lowering the
cost of trash services below the cost of providing services might pull municipal resources
away from other key programs.
Adequate sanitation services are critical to support community health and well-being.
Beyond the immediate needs of proper waste collection and disposal, there are many other
health and wellness benefits of a circular economy and zero waste practices, including but
not limited to pollution reduction, portion control, fresh and local foods, and job creation.
The City of Bozeman can advance circular economy and zero waste practices within
municipal buildings and operations by providing composting and recycling infrastructure at
all City facilities, examining supply chain and purchasing policies to reduce packaging and
buy in bulk, limiting new purchases or purchasing products made with recycled content, and
offering surplus and outdated equipment for sale through a state-wide auction.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s greenhouse gas mitigation goals, while also providing
supporting resiliency benefits.
Emissions Reduction Benefits
Resiliency Benefits
This is a supporting mitigation
solution to achieve the 2025,
2030, and 2050 mitigation goals.
Emission sources impacted
include:
• Waste
• Conserve natural resources
• Increase social cohesion
• Protect human health
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 128
Related Solutions
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
• Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
Action 5.M.1. Actively Promote Source Reduction, Recycling, and Repair
Providing source reduction, recycling, and repair resources and education to Bozeman citizens and
businesses will be critical to achieving success in moving toward a Zero Waste Community and circular
economy. Consumer purchasing decisions have a considerable impact on the community’s overall waste
stream.
The City of Bozeman has partnered with the Gallatin County Solid Waste Management District to host
numerous “Fix-it Clinics” to extend the life of goods and encourage repair rather than disposal. The City
will continue to partner with organizations, the business community, neighborhood groups, maker spaces,
and homeowners’ associations to promote and institute waste reduction and diversion best practices.
The City of Bozeman can increase awareness of zero waste practices by providing information and
education to reduce residential and commercial waste and improve waste diversion practices. Additional
ideas include promoting zero waste events, developing and piloting a quarterly or annual “Buy Nothing”
day, encouraging neighborhood sponsored “community swaps,” developing a program to reduce junk
mail, and supporting the development of virtual or physical community “sharing sheds.” The City will
continue to partner with Montana State University to expand and promote programs that provide
education and promote alternatives to disposable products and single use plastics. By promoting the use
of resale stores, cooperative and bulk discount programs, and reuse/shared economy technology and
services, the City of Bozeman can help consumers reduce their personal waste stream, and as a result,
help build a circular economy and Zero Waste Community.
As of 2020, nearly 47% of City of Bozeman Solid Waste customers (blue bins) also had green recycling bins.
The City will implement a recycling trial program to encourage the expansion of Bozeman’s curbside
recycling program. On a neighborhood-by-neighborhood basis, the City will provide all City of Bozeman
curbside waste customers, who are not current curbside recycling customers, with a free trial of the
program for 90 days. Offered on a rolling basis throughout the City, residences without green bins will
have the opportunity to sample the convenience of single stream recycling and the City can expand the
amount of recyclable material diverted from the landfill. The City can test the program in a few
neighborhoods to determine the effectiveness and cost of a city-wide sampling program.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • Gallatin Solid Waste
Management District
• City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Inter Neighborhood Council
• Bozeman Climate Partners
Working Group
• Home Owner Associations
• Bozeman Makerspace
• 1.1 Outreach
• 6.3 Climate Action
• # of Zero Waste
events or programs
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 129
Action 5.M.2. Expand Composting Services and Collection
When disposed of in a landfill, food waste and green waste create methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
Expanding composting services and collection will enable the City to reduce the amount of compostable
materials going into the landfill, thereby reducing methane production.
The City is currently expanding residential composting services from the existing yard waste collection to
a community-wide curbside composting collection service that will include kitchen scraps and yard waste.
There are several existing private composting businesses providing residential services; it is important that
the City partner with private composters to expand capacity and collaborate with small businesses to craft
programs. The City will provide information and education to reduce pesticide use, increasing the types
of applications possible for finished compost. The City will explore requiring large food waste generators
(e.g., restaurants and grocery stores) to compost and adopt updated development standards for
commercial and multi-family recycling and composting infrastructure.
Biochar is a powerful soil amendment: it enhances plant growth and amplifies yields, which can increase
food production, especially in areas with depleted soils or limited water resources. The City will partner
with Montana State University to evaluate the waste stream inputs, operations, and application of
biochar.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University (e.g.,
Food Services, Facilities,
Sustainability Office)
• Bozeman Public School District
• Private waste and composting
companies
• Restaurants
• Grocers
• 2.1 Business Growth
• 6.3 Climate Action
• 6.5 Parks, Trails, &
Open Space
• Tons of compost
diverted from the
landfill
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 130
Action 5.M.3. Improve Waste Policies, Services, and Operations
The City of Bozeman’s waste policies, services, and operations can help reduce the community’s waste
stream. The City of Bozeman provides curbside recycling as an opt-in service and diverted nearly 1,800
tons from the landfill in fiscal year 2018.
The City will review and consider adopting updated development standards for commercial and multi-
family recycling and composting infrastructure. The City of Bozeman will explore options to review current
trash and recycling fees and shift the recycling program and other waste diversion services to an “opt out”
system (i.e., customers are automatically enrolled in these services unless they decline to participate) to
increase participation. The City will coordinate with Gallatin Solid Waste Management District to explore
increasing the frequency of Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection events to further reduce the
volume of HHW going into the landfill.
Transportation emissions associated with transporting waste from City limits to the Logan Landfill account
for a significant portion of waste emissions. The City will support Gallatin Solid Waste Management
District to identify viable options for constructing a waste transfer station to properly sort and divert
waste, or consider more efficient options for transport to the Logan Landfill. To reduce emissions at the
landfill, the City will partner with Gallatin Solid Waste Management District to continue to study new
opportunities for landfill gas to energy conversion infrastructure.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • Gallatin Solid Waste
Management District
• City of Bozeman
• 6.3 Climate Action • Tons of recycling, compost,
and HHW diverted from
the landfill
• Reduced transportation
emissions from hauling
waste and compost
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 131
Action 5.M.4. Support Construction Waste Diversion
While construction waste in itself does not
generate a significant amount of
greenhouse gases, the waste stream from
construction sites need not take up
valuable space in the landfill. Much of the
material in construction waste is easily
reusable or recyclable.
The City of Bozeman offers a
comprehensive selection of roll-off
containers for construction sites, including
“wood only” recycling bins. The City will
continue to educate and inform
contractors of the economic benefits of
separating out construction waste.
The City will develop guidelines and
provide information and education to
increase awareness in the development
sector regarding construction waste
reduction and diversion best practices
(such as a “deconstruction handbook” that
provides guidance on the benefits of
deconstruction over demolition, available
reuse and recycling resources, and local
contractor information) and explore
economic incentives for supporting demolition (deconstruction) businesses. The City will develop a
recognition program for voluntary “green” construction and demolition practices and explore
development incentives to achieve more sustainable construction and demolition waste management.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measure
Level 3 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Southwest Montana
Building Industry
Association
• 6.3 Climate Action • Tons of construction
waste diverted from the
landfill
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 132
Action 5.M.5. Encourage the Development of Material Markets
A significant challenge with developing a circular economy is the lack of market demand and available
infrastructure to properly and cost-effectively turn recycled materials into usable products and get them
back into circulation. Some materials, such as plastic, cannot truly be recycled and can only be downcycled
(i.e., re-manufactured into a lesser quality product) and can only be downcycled one or two times before
losing integrity. Other materials can be recycled over and over, but there is a lack of market demand for
products that contain recycled content.
To encourage the development of material markets, the City will partner with Montana State University
or other research institutes to conduct a study to better understand full lifecycle economics of current
household and construction waste practices, and identify ways to create new economic opportunities to
move Bozeman toward a more circular economy. The City will also identify regional partners to engage in
reuse, reduction, recycling, and other waste/purchasing/supply chain efforts. Related to Action 6.N.4.,
the City and its’ partners will encourage local food production and food recovery programs, and identify
partnerships between food processors and potential end users to utilize processing waste.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 3 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Prospera Business Network
• Gallatin Solid Waste
Management District
• City-County Local Food
Council
• 2.1 Business Growth
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Complete study of lifecycle
economics of
waste/recycling practices
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 133
Action 5.M.6. Develop Plans for Green Purchasing and Zero Waste Events for City Operations
The City of Bozeman has the potential to generate unnecessary waste by using single use or non-
recyclable/non-compostable products, both within its own operations and in hosting community events.
Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) or Green Purchasing and guidelines for hosting Zero Waste
events can help mitigate this impact. Environmentally Preferable products are products and services that
have a lower negative impact on human health or the environment compared to similar conventional
products.
The City will analyze its purchasing policy and develop a plan to integrate source reduction and green
purchasing into its requirements. Green purchasing policies could include requiring the City to source
products that:
• are reusable, recyclable, or recycled content products,
• conserve energy, water, or natural resources,
• are lower carbon content,
• are made from sustainable and renewable resources,
• prevent pollution or contain fewer hazardous chemicals or toxic substances, and
• minimize waste or have minimal packaging.
Local food procurement and best practices for printing and disposable paper products will also be
addressed in the purchasing policy.
The City will also develop a plan for hosting Zero Waste events for City operations. Strategies for Zero
Waste events could include prohibiting single use, disposable items, providing on-site composting and
recycling, providing clear signage and trained staff to ensure proper disposal of waste, sourcing event
materials and food locally, encouraging attendees to bring their own containers and utensils, or investing
in reusable catering materials, such as dishes, cups, and utensils.
The City will continue to explore avenues to limit or ban single use plastics for municipal operations and
activities. The City has already eliminated the use of plastic water bottles for everything but emergency
situations.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 3 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Southwest Montana
Building Industry
Association
• 6.3 Climate Action
• 7.3 Best Practices,
Creativity, &
Foresight
• Updated green purchasing
guidelines
• # of Zero Waste city events
Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 134
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
The following opportunities and considerations summarize how the solution in this chapter can help
improve resiliency to future climate hazards.
Opportunities Considerations
Extreme Heat
• Composting occurs more quickly in warmer
temperatures.
• A circular economy can reduce the need to
transport goods in periods of extreme heat.
Flooding
• Adding compost and biochar to soils can
increase water holding capacity, which can
prevent runoff during flood events.
• Flooding can cause high volumes of yard
debris and organic materials that need
disposal.
Drought & Mountain Snowpack
• Waste reduction can include water waste
reduction (e.g., reliance on grey water
systems, drought tolerant landscaping, etc.)
• Soil amended with compost can hold more
water and decrease water demand for
plantings.
• Water is essential to irrigate compost and
clean/process recyclables.
• Local production activities can be water-
intensive.
Wildfire
• Compost and biochar additions to soil can
increase water holding capacity, making
landscape more resistant to wildfires.
• A more localized economy could allow
wildfire to disrupt wider sections of the
Bozeman economy
Winter Storms
• Less waste to collect could reduce the impact
if waste collection services were disrupted.
• Composting can be challenging in cold or
stormy weather.
• Regular pick up of waste and recycling may
still be necessary, and challenging, in event of
severe winter storm.
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 135
FOCUS AREA 6. REGENERATIVE GREENSPACE, FOOD SYSTEMS & NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
This chapter includes solutions that encompass the natural
environment and systems, including land and water
resources and food systems. While they present some
opportunities for emissions mitigation through their
connections to energy consumption, these solutions also
provide emissions benefits in the form of carbon
sequestration. Previous Bozeman greenhouse gas
inventories have not accounted for carbon sequestration,
but future inventories could aim to quantify their emission-
related benefits.
Bozeman currently boasts 906 acres of City-owned parks,
with most neighborhoods within a 10-minute walk to a
park. Additionally, the City has more than 24,000 trees in
public boulevards and parks. The 14-acre wetland in Story Mill Community Park is the community’s largest
wetland, and it is an award-winning project that is helping to build healthy streams and wetlands.
Like many of the other chapters, the solutions in this chapter emphasize conservation and efficiency in
resource use. These solutions also emphasize regeneration, or the renewal, restoration, and regrowth of
systems to make them healthier and more resilient to disturbance and future climate impacts.
The solutions in this chapter help advance Bozeman’s resiliency goals. The emissions mitigation benefits
are limited and are accounted for with other related solutions. To maximize resiliency and emissions
mitigation potential, the Bozeman community will need to:
• Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
Encourage and facilitate the development of all facets of a local food system, including but not
limited to food production, access, processing, distribution, sales, resiliency, waste, education,
and natural resources.
• Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
Utilize a comprehensive approach to manage water resources at the watershed scale.
• Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
Encourage and implement practices that support the urban forest, strengthen carbon sinks, and
improve carbon sequestration potential.
RELATED PLANS & STUDIES
• Unified Development Code
• Bozeman Design Guidelines
for Historic Preservation &
Neighborhood Conservation
Overlay District
• Triangle Community Plan
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 136
Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
This solution recognizes that the
natural system conversation is
not complete without considering
humans and our need to eat. This
solution encourages the
development of all facets of a
local food system, including but
not limited to food production,
access, processing, distribution,
sales, resiliency, waste,
education, and natural resources.
This complex web of processes
required to get food from farm to
table intersects with many other
facets of this Climate Plan and
brings to light the opportunity to
address the food system
holistically.
Food systems contribute heavily
to greenhouse gas emissions.
Retooling food systems presents
many opportunities for emission
reductions through improved
agricultural practices, lower-
carbon food products, production
and transportation efficiency, and
waste reduction. These
approaches extend well beyond the typical urban farms and gardens, and necessitate transformations in
economic, social, and environmental systems.
Climate change and the recent COVID-19 pandemic illuminate issues related to food system function and
food security. In Montana, farmers are beginning to see climate change impacting productivity and
nutritional quality, and their anxiety is increasing with this rise in uncertainty. Like communities across
the country, Bozeman has an “on-demand” food supply that can be disrupted by events like a snowstorm
that prevents truck deliveries. Similarly, the recent pandemic has transformed restaurant and food retail
operations, interrupted agriculture production and harvesting, and increased food supply chain issues. A
comprehensive food security assessment and plan could be a helpful next step to reduce food insecurity
and improve food system resiliency.
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 137
A robust local food system is inherently a more equitable one, as it reduces food insecurity
and improves food access and supply. It also creates a safety net in case of emergencies and
supply chain disruptions.
From a health and well-being perspective, food stability and improved access to healthy
food positively impacts health outcomes.
In terms of City assets, the City of Bozeman can facilitate food production on public
properties, as well as support all aspects of a local food system through partnerships and its
own purchasing practices.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s climate resiliency goals, while also providing
limited (unquantified) greenhouse gas emissions reduction and carbon sequestration benefits.
Related Solutions
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
• Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
• Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
• Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
Resiliency Benefits
• Conserve natural resources
• Increase social cohesion
• Mitigate property and economic losses
• Protect human health
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 138
Action 6.N.1. Support the Formation of a Local Food Council
To guide the process of cultivating a robust
local food system in coordination and
collaboration with our larger “foodshed”, the
City of Bozeman will explore the formation of
a City-County Local Food Council. The City will
work with community partners to establish a
resolution and form a Local Food Council to
advise both city and county government on
local agricultural and food-related policy
issues, lead education, advocacy, and
programs to grow and enhance a local food
system.
The Local Food Council will provide education
to the community about food systems, the
benefits of local foods, the carbon intensity of
various food sources, low water use food
source options, individual food production
efforts, community gardens, and home
gardening, edible landscapes, and season
extension practices. It will develop and
launch a comprehensive educational
campaign to share composting benefits and
best practices and help residents improve home composting practices. The Council will promote soil-
building and healthy soil practices on private property (e.g., soil amendments, limiting pesticides and
herbicides, etc.), and the importance of water use efficiency.
The Local Food Council will partner with local institutions to support increased engagement with our local
food economy and greater understanding of the multiple benefits of procuring local and regional foods. It
will support and encourage farmers markets, farm to table opportunities, cottage food businesses, and
agriculture/gardening in public green spaces.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan
Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • Gallatin County
• City of Bozeman
• City of Belgrade
• Open & Local
• Montana State University &
Extension
• Greater Gallatin United Way
• Gallatin Valley Land Trust
• Gallatin Valley Food Bank
• Local farms
• Gallatin Valley Farm to school
• 1.2 Community
Engagement
• 6.3 Climate Action
• 6.6 Habitat
• Creation of a City-County
food council
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 139
Action 6.N.2. Help Develop a Food System Assessment and Security Plan
To cultivate a local food system, the City must have a clear understanding of current practices and
conditions, systemic challenges, available resources, community partners and stakeholders, and a plan for
implementation.
The City will partner with community stakeholders to develop a comprehensive food system plan to be
led by the Local Food Council. The scope of the food assessment will include food emergency response
policies to encourage quick and resilient action, a map of regional food suppliers, avenues for supporting
local food production, and avenues to connect community gardens to food banks. Middle income earners
currently have poor access to local food as they are challenged by the higher prices and are not likely to
access emergency food security programs. The plan will include both low- and middle-income individuals
and families in the assessment.
The City will partner with Human Resources Development Council and Greater Gallatin United Way to
invest in emergency food system planning and distribution, and with local grocery stores and other food
sector businesses to identify opportunities to bolster resilience, such as investing in backup generators
and mapping infrastructure that can be prepared to assist during emergencies.
Through the Local Food Council, the City will work to strengthen relationships with farmers, ranchers,
processors, and other food sector businesses outside of City limits and to identify mechanisms for
encouraging more diverse agricultural production and food supply chains, while identifying mechanisms
to protect existing agricultural activity through land use planning and development regulations.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measure
Level 2 • Gallatin County
• City of Bozeman
• City of Belgrade
• HRDC
• Open & Local
• Montana State University
• Greater Gallatin United Way
• Gallatin Valley Land Trust
• Gallatin Valley Farm to
School
• Local farms
• 3.2 Health and Safety
Action
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Completion of food
security plan
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 140
Action 6.N.3 Encourage Local Agriculture and Preservation of Working Lands
A local food system is not possible without the
preservation of agricultural land on which to
grow food. As more and more agricultural land is
converted to subdivisions in the Gallatin Valley,
it is critical for the City of Bozeman to prioritize
local agriculture and the preservation of working
agriculture lands. The City of Bozeman, with
input from the Local Food Council, will review
existing land uses and the Community Plan,
research effective metrics to evaluate urban
agriculture, and consider targets to ensure that
food production remains feasible within and
near Bozeman. The City will encourage water use
efficient appropriate and compatible new
agricultural opportunities, such as incorporating
garden pilot projects as part of City parks,
supporting development design that integrates
significant agricultural elements and
opportunities (e.g., cluster development,
community gardens, agricultural
neighborhoods), and working with existing
producers and land owners in the valley to
encourage and support carbon sequestration practices on working lands.
The City will cultivate relationships with Montana State University, non-profits, and other local agencies
to improve the management model for community gardens, emphasizing the need for responsible urban
gardening, and organize community gardens in a manner conducive to re-investment in garden
infrastructure.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • Gallatin County
• City of Bozeman
• City of Belgrade
• Open & Local
• Montana State University
• Greater Gallatin United
Way
• Gallatin Valley Land Trust
• Local farms
• Gallatin Valley Farm to
School
• 2.1 Business Growth
• 6.3 Climate Action
• 6.6 Habitat
• Establishment of urban
agriculture and local food
production targets
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 141
Action 6.N.4 Support Local Food Production, Processing, and Distribution
Disruption of supply chains is a threat to Bozeman’s ability to access healthy, affordable food. Bozeman is
vulnerable to both availability of imported food and impacts to the transportation network and supply
chain. By focusing on enhancing capacity for local food production, processing, and distribution, Bozeman
can expand food security and increase resilience.
The City will work with the Local Food Council to strengthen the food supply chain by supporting farmers,
ranchers, processors and other food sector businesses through City Economic Development programs and
supporting the development of food processing and distribution centers within or proximate to City limits.
While continuing to focus on water use efficiency, the City will review City codes to identify barriers to
local food production and distribution (e.g., yard production, light industrial agriculture, hydroponics,
etc.), expand the narrative in current code allowing for garden use, and explore code changes to
encourage new or larger commercial opportunities. The City-County Food Council may identify
opportunities to advocate for agricultural subsidies for producers contributing to community food
security. This supports the local producers to sell locally, makes food affordable for low- and middle-
income individuals, and supports the local economy.
The City will establish best practices for food enterprises and expand opportunities for home-based or
cottage food entrepreneurs, such as jams and jellies, baked goods, dry herbs and seasonings, granolas
and trail mixes.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measure
Level 3 • Gallatin County
• City of Bozeman
• City of Belgrade
• Open & Local
• Montana State University
• Greater Gallatin United
Way
• Gallatin Valley Land Trust
• Local farms
• Gallatin Valley Farm to
School
• 2.1 Business Growth
• 6.3 Climate Action
• 6.6 Habitat
• Completion of food
security plan
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 142
Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
This solution focuses on using a comprehensive approach to manage
water resources at the watershed scale. This includes coordinating
water resources across various sectors and applications, such as
water supply, wastewater, reuse, stormwater, watersheds,
wetlands, agriculture, and energy.
The production, conveyance, and treatment of water is highly
energy intensive. Careful management and conservation of
Bozeman’s limited water resources helps reduce energy
consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions. Beyond this
water-energy nexus, water conservation and management provide
many other co-benefits, including supporting agricultural
production, improving drought-preparedness and wildfire response,
enhancing ecosystem function, extending the reach of current water
supplies, generating utility cost savings, and reducing water bills for customers
Water availability is limited as the City of Bozeman relies on snowpack for its water supply. Roughly 80%
of the City’s water comes from snowmelt in the Gallatin Range, which feeds Sourdough Creek and Hyalite
Reservoir. The other 20% comes from a developed spring at the headwaters of Lyman Creek. As the
community grows and climate patterns shift, water supplies will likely become less reliable, with more of
the community’s precipitation coming in the form of rain instead of snow. Water conservation is critical
to ensure that the City has an adequate supply of water in the future. The City of Bozeman offers
conservation-oriented water rates, including a tiered -block structure for single-family customers. The City
of Bozeman utilizes a radio-read metering system, and proposed amendments to the landscaping code
may require heavy water users to implement irrigation submetering. Use of water catchment and grey
water systems in Montana are subject to state and county regulations. Both present additional water
conservation opportunities, but regulatory considerations currently limit viability.
Bozeman has a history of collaborating with Montana State University, University of Montana, other
jurisdictions, and various partners on climate and water research, modeling, and forecasting. To further
support water supply planning and forecasting, the City of Bozeman will be developing a water supply
optimization tool and water conservation plan. The optimization tool will examine current water rights
and historical yield, providing staff with the means to track and project current and future supply
availability. The water conservation plan will evaluate the benefit/cost for existing and future program
measures to identify a volume of water the city can expect to save through demand management.
Together, these initiatives will provide the city with a more detailed and comprehensive look into the
city’s future water supply reliability and water demand patterns.
Efforts to maintain and improve water quality are also critical in Bozeman’s urbanized area and the greater
watershed upstream and downstream of the community. The City has invested in infrastructure and
technology to treat water and wastewater, as well as managing stormwater and agricultural runoff.
Preservation and expansion of environmental features like wetlands and riparian buffers help manage
runoff naturally. Low impact development techniques and green infrastructure development can mimic
and support natural systems and provide water quality benefits.
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 143
Measures to conserve water are more cost effective than securing additional water
supplies, treatment, and/or building costly new infrastructure. There is a role for all
Bozeman community members to implement water conservation practices. As with
improvements for energy efficiency, some water conservation efforts are simple, low-cost
opportunities, while others require more significant investments that may be out of reach
for some community members. Likewise, modern urban water management techniques
such as green infrastructure may prove to be costly investments that some cannot afford.
Pricing structures for customer water use should reflect the true cost of the water being
used. The Water Treatment Plant must be built to accommodate high water use on the
hottest, driest day in the summer when lawn irrigation is at its peak. Pricing structures
should minimize the cost of water for essential uses and increase cost of water for non-
essential uses such as irrigation. Access to clean and healthy water is vital for all community
members. Comprehensive management of water resources across the watershed will help
ensure that water is not only available, but of high quality.
The City of Bozeman can advance this solution by implementing energy-efficient practices
in the production, conveyance, and treatment of water. The City can also continue to
provide an integrated approach to water supply planning and management that includes
water conservation as a primary strategy. Finally, the City of Bozeman can continue to lead
by example in managing stormwater to protect water quality and can seek opportunities to
incorporate Low Impact Development (LID) techniques with all City development projects.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s climate resiliency goals, while also providing limited
(unquantified) greenhouse gas emissions reduction and carbon sequestration benefits.
Related Solutions
• Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
• Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
• Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
Resiliency Benefits
• Conserve natural resources
• Strengthen infrastructure to natural disaster
• Mitigate property and economic losses
• Protect human health
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 144
Action 6.O.1. Invest in Landscaping and Irrigation Upgrades at City Facilities
The City of Bozeman owns and manages 906 acres of City parks and numerous public facilities in the
community. Investing in landscaping and irrigation upgrades at City parks and facilities will enable the City
to lead by example with water conservation.
The City will update landscaping at City parks and facilities to be more drought tolerant, climate adaptive,
and pollinator friendly, and update irrigation systems to include rain sensors, automatic controls, and
high-efficiency equipment. The City will perform irrigation audits on City Facility and City Park irrigation
systems to detect leaks and identify needed repairs, and program watering schedules and adjust
programming seasonally for City properties to support water conservation goals. The City will also install
drought tolerant landscaping in City medians to minimize or eliminate the need for irrigation systems.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measure
Level 1 • City of Bozeman • 4.3 Strategic
Infrastructure Choices
• 6.1 Clean Water Supplies
• 6.3 Climate Action
• 6.5 Parks, Trails, & Open
Space
• Reduced water
consumption for
city facilities
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 145
Action 6.O.2. Build on the Success of Water Conservation Education and Incentives
The City of Bozeman’s Water Conservation program is well-established and offers education, water-wise
and drought management resources, free sprinkler assessments, rebates/incentives for commercial and
residential indoor and outdoor water conservation, and a free online water use portal for tracking home
water use. The Bozeman Climate Plan builds on this success and expands programming to further educate
the community and conserve our limited water resources.
The City will provide information and resources to support more water efficient and resilient landscapes
to private property owners, property management companies, and homeowners’ associations, and
develop a water-efficient landscape recognition program for private properties and/or common
neighborhood areas. The City will initiate a turf lawn-to-resilient-landscape conversion program (drought
tolerant, climate adaptive, pollinator friendly) to encourage lawn retrofits.
The City will continue to share information about Bozeman’s Drought Meter and Drought Management
Plan, and partner with large water users to develop drought contingency plans. This effort will be
supported by the energy and water benchmarking program for commercial buildings (Action 1.A.4).
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
• Gallatin Watershed
Council
• MT Institute on
Ecosystems
• Gallatin Local Water
Quality District
• 1.1 Outreach
• 6.1 Clean Water
Supplies
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Reduced gallons of water per
capita per day
• Reduced residential outdoor water use
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 146
Action 6.O.3. Evaluate Additional Water Conservation Code and Water Rate Structure Adjustments
In addition to programming and physical infrastructure, the City of Bozeman has influence over consumer
behavior through regulatory and financial mechanisms. To maximize opportunities for water
management and conservation, the City will evaluate additional water conservation code and water rate
structure adjustments.
The City will review City codes to identify opportunities to encourage or require more resilient water
systems (e.g., greywater use, efficient irrigation and landscaping practices, etc.), bolster requirements for
resilient landscapes, and identify contradictions between water conservation and vegetation
requirements. The City will evaluate current water and waste code ordinances to align with water
conservation goals and evaluate the feasibility of seasonal time-of-use irrigation restrictions or pricing.
The City will evaluate the feasibility of requiring new developments to offset projected water demand
through water conservation projects.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman • 4.1 Informed
Conversation on
Growth
• 6.1 Clean Water
Supplies
• 6.3 Climate Action
• Reduced gallons of water per
capita per day
• Reduce outdoor water use
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 147
Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
This solution encourages practices that support
the urban forest, strengthen carbon sinks, and
improve carbon sequestration potential. It
includes management of land and resources on
both public and private properties. This solution
focuses on carbon sequestration and is closely
related to other conservation and efficiency
solutions.
Various land management practices and
restoration techniques can support carbon sinks,
the absorption of carbon dioxide from the
atmosphere, and storage in natural systems like
soil and plants. These opportunities include but
are not limited to maintaining soil cover,
minimizing soil disturbance and tilling, rotating
crops, preserving natural and agricultural areas,
protecting forests, managing grazing, restoring
wetlands, reintroducing native species,
removing invasive species, and implementing
regenerative agriculture practices. Protecting
existing trees, increasing the number of trees,
and planning for tree replacement are all
important practices to ensure a healthy and resilient urban forest.
In Bozeman’s urban area, the tree canopy, public parks and open spaces, and private yards and properties
all provide opportunities for carbon sinks and sequestration. At the community’s edges, opportunities for
carbon sequestration abound on agricultural properties and across nearby forests and open lands.
Thoughtful stewardship of these lands and management of these resources provide many opportunities
for Bozeman to naturally pull carbon emissions out of the atmosphere.
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 148
From an equity perspective, this solution needs careful consideration and implementation.
Location and access by diverse segments of the community should be important drivers in
the purchase of open space and/or development of other park or natural areas. Access
needs to be balanced with the quality of the resources in order to maximize carbon
sequestration benefits. Similarly, requirements for open space dedication within
development projects could drive up development costs, making housing less affordable.
With land and resource management on private property, renters may have less control over
practices than owner-occupied properties, and some community members may be unable
to afford investments into tree and yard maintenance.
Enhancements to the urban tree canopy present significant opportunities to improve air
quality and human health and increase resiliency through diversification of the tree canopy.
Access to green spaces and the natural environment is important to physical and mental
health.
The City of Bozeman can implement best-in-class land management practices across its
many parks and open space assets so that they can create a robust network of carbon sinks.
The City can also continue to provide healthy, safe, and resilient community forest public
spaces.
This solution primarily addresses Bozeman’s climate resiliency goals, while also providing limited
(unquantified) carbon sequestration benefits.
Related Solutions
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
• Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
• Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
Resiliency Benefits
• Conserve natural resources
• Harden infrastructure to natural disaster
• Mitigate property and economic losses
• Protect human health
Mitigation Resiliency
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 149
Action 6.P.1. Protect Local Wetlands for Flood Resilience and Water Quality
Bozeman is predicted to experience increased urban flooding as a result of climate change. To mitigate
this, the City can take actions to protect local wetlands for flood resilience and water quality.
The City will prioritize the protection, management, and restoration of wetlands. The City will enhance or
construct wetlands to offset all losses and require that all wetland mitigation efforts are conducted within
the impacted watershed. The City will study the wetland banking program and recommend reforms to
encourage preservation of contiguous, high-value habitat and ecosystem services within the City of
Bozeman.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measure
Level 1 • City of Bozeman
• Gallatin County
• 4.1 Informed
Conversation on
Growth
• 6.1 Clean Water
Supplies
• 6.3 Climate Action
• 6.6 Habitat
• Acres of wetlands
preserved or mitigated
within watershed
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 150
Action 6.P.2. Maintain and Expand the Urban Forest
Bozeman’s urban forest is a valuable resource to the community, both aesthetically and from a public and
environmental health standpoint. The Bozeman Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP) aims to
sustainably, holistically, and efficiently manage Bozeman’s urban forest, and to illustrate the full expanse
of benefits urban trees can provide. In public parks, open space, and rights of way, the City manages
approximately 23,950 trees in the municipally owned urban forest (not including wild trees growing along
stream banks and on private property or undeveloped City-owned property). The City is in the process of
conducting a comprehensive inventory of Bozeman’s urban forest. Bozeman’s urban forest faces
increasing threats from climate change and invasive pests. Addressing the health of the urban forest is
among the highest priorities for the City.
The City of Bozeman will continue to grow the urban forest program to maintain and expand the urban
forest on public and private property. The City will identify opportunities in City codes to promote the
expansion, preservation, and maintenance of the urban forest, and prioritize planting low maintenance,
drought tolerant tree species, and increasing species and age diversity. The City will explore the feasibility
of launching and using an app to monitor tree health and carbon sequestration.
Education for the community on proper maintenance of the urban forest is critical. The City will increase
public outreach related to proper tree care and maintenance, removal, and replacement on private
property.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 1 • City of Bozeman • 4.1 Informed
Conversation on
Growth
• 6.3 Climate Action
• 6.5 Parks, Trails, &
Open Space
• 6.6 Habitat
• Increased species
diversity
• Increased proactive tree
maintenance
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 151
Action 6.P.3. Enhance Greenspace and Carbon Sequestration for New Development
The City of Bozeman has the capacity to help
guide new development, especially with regard
to shared open space and vegetation
requirements. Greenspaces throughout the
community can either sequester carbon, if
designed thoughtfully and with intention, or
they can inadvertently contribute to increased
carbon emissions, through increased energy-
and water-intensive activities such as mowing,
irrigation, and fertilizing.
The City already requires dedicated park lands
and open space in new residential
developments. The City will review existing
parkland requirements and determine the role
of parks in the preservation of greenspace and
carbon sequestration. The City will emphasize
native landscapes in greenspace development
and incentivize developers to enhance or
construct wetlands in new developments, where
appropriate. Trees in greenspace can provide
cooling spaces, further mitigating the impacts of
climate change.
The City will promote the installation and maintenance of greenways along bike and walking paths and
incentivize the connection of habitat corridors as development and redevelopment occurs. The City will
review requirements for parking lot, median, and boulevard landscaping to require climate-friendly
landscaping.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measure
Level 1 • City of Bozeman • 6.3 Climate Action
• 6.5 Parks, Trails, & Open
Space
• 6.6 Habitat
• Establish method to
quantify urban
carbon
sequestration
potential
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 152
Action 6.P.4. Provide Outreach on Water Pollution Prevention and Carbon Sequestration Strategies
Beyond the urban tree canopy, Bozeman’s natural land and water resources have high potential for
carbon sequestration and are at high risk for pollution. Management strategies that depend upon
pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and fertilizers can pollute water supplies and harm wildlife.
The City will partner with the Local Food Council, MSU, scientists, and other partners to explore the
impacts of and alternatives to pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and neonicotinoids on City properties and
community wide. The City will emphasize best management practices and promote a phosphorous-free
City. Whenever possible, the City will prioritize the installation of low maintenance landscapes to help
reduce weed maintenance demands. The City will provide education and outreach to private property
owners to minimize the use of or find alternatives to chemical applications where possible.
The City will provide information and education to help residents make improvements on private property
related to carbon sequestration and land management and provide resources on investments into
local/regional carbon offset programs. The City will quantify carbon sequestration potential and irrigation
requirements of different types of vegetation, especially in evaluation of food production.
Producing biochar from agricultural wastes could sequester up to 12% of global carbon emissions (Woolf,
D., Amonette, J., Stret-Perrott, F. et al., 2010). Biochar has myriad co-benefits: it improves soil health and
crop yields and produces biogas as a by-product that could be refined into biodiesel for use in City vehicles.
Biochar is an existing, low-tech technology that the City of Bozeman could utilize in addressing the
community’s agricultural and urban forest waste. The City will work with Gallatin County, the Local Food
Council, and other partners, such as local farmers, to support production of biochar within Gallatin
County. Additionally, the City could experiment with making its own biochar from municipal yard waste
and sharing the process with local farmers. The City could also provide a market for purchasing biochar to
incentivize local farmers to produce it.
Priority Lead & Implementing Partners Strategic Plan Alignment Performance Measures
Level 2 • City of Bozeman
• Montana State University
Extension
• Local Farmers
• MSU Engineering
• MSU College of Agriculture
• Non-profits (e.g., Gallatin
Valley Land Trust, One
Montana)
• Western Sustainability
Exchange
• 6.3 Climate Action
• 6.5 Parks, Trails, &
Open Space
• 6.6 Habitat
• Reduction in Nitrogen and
Phosphorous
concentration in Water
Reclamation Facility (WRF)
effluent
• Develop guidance on
carbon sequestration and
irrigation requirements for
vegetation and food
production
Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environment
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 153
Increasing Resiliency to Climate Hazards
The following opportunities and considerations summarize how the solutions in this chapter can help
improve resiliency to future climate hazards.
Opportunities Considerations
Extreme Heat
• Robust greenspaces and urban forests provide
cooling benefits and decrease urban heat
island effect.
• A robust tree canopy reduces water demand
of shaded vegetation and turf grass.
• Healthy soils can help protect plants during
extreme heat events.
• Conserving water resources will help to ensure
adequate supplies.
• Extreme heat could adversely affect
agriculture productivity and food
production.
• Surface waters may experience losses due to
evaporation.
Flooding
• Protecting and restoring wetlands and riparian
areas will improve flood and erosion control.
• Healthy soils can store additional water and
are less prone to erosion.
• Flooding could adversely affect agriculture
productivity and food production.
Drought & Mountain Snowpack
• Protecting/conserving water resources and
increasing soil health will improve water
holding capacity of natural systems.
• Native and drought tolerant landscapes
require less water than turf.
• Drought could adversely affect agriculture
productivity and food production.
• Increased tree canopy and greenspace could
increase burnable fuel during drought.
Wildfire
• Developing a diverse supply of water
resources can increase resilience if wildfires
threaten quality of surface water.
• Local food production could provide food
security if wildfires impact food supply chain.
• Conserving water resources can help ensure
supplies necessary to fight fires.
• Water may be limited for other critical uses,
like local agriculture, if required for
firefighting.
• Water quality can be challenging to protect
in the event of a wildfire.
Winter Storms
• Local food systems can provide food during
times of limited distribution.
• Greenspaces can help to absorb runoff when
snow melts.
• Winter storms could bolster snowpack and
resulting water resources.
• Severe winter storms could adversely affect
agriculture productivity and food
production.
Chapter 3: Focus Areas, Solutions & Actions 154
CHAPTER 4:
IMPLEMENTATION
GUIDE
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 155
CHAPTER 4: IMPLEMENTATION GUIDE
This section provides a detail to guide implementation of this Climate Plan. The implementation guide
includes three major sections: (1) implementation considerations, (2) activities to keep the plan on track,
and (3) implementation playbook for strategies and actions.
IMPLEMENTATION CONSIDERATIONS
Forecasting and Risk
Implementing this Climate Action Plan is subject to conditions along the way that could affect progress
toward goals. Some of these are large systemic conditions that the City and community can influence,
but don’t have direct control over. It’s important to recognize these changing conditions in monitoring
the plan’s progress, adjusting course where needed along the way.
Population Growth
The business-as-usual forecast is based on constant per capita emissions, so variation in population
growth has a significant impact on the projected community emission and therefore the amount of
reductions needed to achieve the goals. Bozeman is a high-growth community and there is significant
uncertainty in the future population projections as discussed in Chapter 2: Climate Trends & Goal
Contributions.
All goals analyzed in this plan are based on the high-growth scenario to allow contingency planning for all
growth scenarios.
Economic Conditions
• As shown in the next section, the solutions in this plan have a good financial performance as a
whole, but many require upfront investment. Recessionary conditions can dampen the pace of
investment and therefore progress toward the goal.
• Economic downturn may also slow the pace of new development reducing the overall
community GHG emissions.
• Projected EV adoption rates may be slowed from current projections if there is a prolonged
economic downturn.
Electric Utility Supply
• The plan relies heavily on NorthWestern Energy’s ability to deliver significantly more clean
energy to Bozeman. Spot market, short-term sales, market prices for renewable assets and state
regulatory conditions all affect the utility-based clean energy solutions in this plan.
• The feasibility of distributed electricity generation projections may depend on local or national
policy affecting net metering, allowed system size, and available incentives.
• Utility policy to support EV infrastructure may accelerate EV adoption.
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 156
Federal Policy and Investment
• Implementing a carbon tax or an emissions trading system will provide financial incentives for
businesses to mitigate their emissions as well as provides governments financing for mitigation
or adaptation programs. The implementation of a carbon tax could accelerate the
implementation on many of the identified solutions.
• Production tax credits for large scale wind products are set to expire at the end of 2020 and it
appears unlikely to be renewed. This may reduce investment in utility-scale wind programs.
• In 2018, the corporate average fuel economy (CAFÉ) standards were frozen at the 2021 level
rather than continuing to improve fuel economy through 2025. The future of this program will
likely influence auto maker incentives to continue to innovate and produce lower emissions
vehicles.
To meet the community’s 2050 goals, new emissions reduction or carbon sequestration solutions that are
not currently commercially available must be developed. The development of these solutions will rely on
consistent demand and support of research and innovation.
The above risks are illustrative and not exhaustive. Managing risks will require implementing all of the
solutions in the plan which were built together as a system to achieve the goals. As a matter of best
practice, new strategies should be considered during implementation to periodically freshen the solutions
with the latest opportunities in cost-effective mitigation and resilience.
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 157
Economics of Climate Change
To reach the climate mitigation goals in this plan, significant investment will be required from the both
the City of Bozeman and the community’s businesses and residents. Before determining the cost
effectiveness of various mitigation solutions and supporting strategies, we must first understand the cost
of doing nothing. Figure 21 shows the cost of energy use in the community for the 2016 baseline, as well
as the projected cost for each of the goal years assuming business as usual. This is a combined cost of fuel
use from City operations, businesses, and residents as well as the social cost of carbon from the resulting
emissions. The social cost of carbon is a metric that shows the cumulative cost of the negative impacts of
Bozeman’s GHG emissions including increased frequency and severity of natural disasters as discussed
above (US Environmental Protection Agency, 2020). As the City and residents consider various
investments to reduce the community’s GHG emissions, the investment should be compared against the
cost of doing nothing in order to net costs and benefits, keeping in mind that the social cost of carbon is
higher in later goal years as the effects of climate change are more pronounced.
Figure 21. Projected cost of energy use and social cost of carbon under the business-as-usual high-growth scenario
The following table summarizes which solutions in this plan reduce each of the fuel components of the
community GHG inventory shown in Figure 6. For each solution, total costs or cost savings are estimated,
along with return on investment (ROI), through the year 2050. As shown in Table 11, the total estimated
cost savings from these climate mitigation solutions is $217.5 million by 2050 in addition to avoiding the
projected social impacts of carbon emissions estimated at $102 million in 2050.
In 2016 the cost of energy use in Bozeman was about $2,200 per resident. Under the business as usual
scenario in Figure 21, this cost would rise to about $2,900 per resident in 2050 based on consistent energy
consumption per person and the US Energy Information Administration’s projections for energy costs in
Montana (US Energy Information Administration, n.d.). By contrast, the average per person energy costs
drops to $850 per person in 2050 based on the goal scenario outlined in this plan, a 70% reduction. While
Bozeman homes and businesses will need to invest significantly to reduce energy use and shift to
renewable energy sources, the end result will be more affordable energy costs.
$-
$50
$100
$150
$200
$250
$300
$350
$400
$450
2016 2025 2030 2050Community CostsMillionsElectricity Natural Gas Gasoline Diesel Social Cost of Carbon
$120
$193 $232
$407
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 158
Table 11. Projected fuel savings and return on investment per mitigation solution
Mitigation Solution
Emissions Source
Impacted
2050 Cost Savings and
Return on Investment9
A. Improve Efficiency of Existing
Buildings
Electricity and
Natural Gas
Cost Savings: $71.4 Million
ROI: 4% for deep energy retrofits; 5.9%
for medium retrofits (Nadel, 2020)
B. Achieve Net-Zero Energy New
Construction
Electricity and
Natural Gas
Cost Savings: $47.4 million
ROI: 10-13% (Emerson & Sullivan, 2020)
C. Electrify Buildings Natural Gas
Cost: $9.3 million
ROI: None – varies based on existing
systems
D. Increase Utility Clean Energy
Mix Electricity Cost Savings: unknown
ROI: not applicable
E. Increase Community
Participation in Utility Green
Power Programs
Electricity
Cost: Variable based on green power
agreement
ROI: not applicable
F. Increase Community-Based
Distributed Renewable Energy
Generation
Electricity
Cost Savings: $4.4 million
ROI: 2.5%-5.6% for solar depending on
net metering and electric TOU rates
(Nadel, 2020)
G. Facilitate Compact Development
Patterns
Gasoline and
Diesel
Cost Savings: $37.9 million
ROI: public investment; High ROI to
solution participants reducing trips
J. Increase Walking, Bicycling,
Carpooling and Use of Transit
Gasoline and
Diesel
Cost Savings: $34.6 million
ROI: public investment; High ROI to
solution participants reducing trips
K. Decrease Direct Vehicle
Emissions
Gasoline and
Diesel
Cost Savings: $29.8 million
ROI: public investment; High ROI to
solution participants reducing trips
TOTAL TOTAL Cost Savings $215.7 million
9 Projected energy prices based on US Energy Information Administration projections for Montana.
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 159
Building efficiency, NZE construction, and distributed renewable energy generation all have a positive
return on investment to the institutions, businesses, and residents making capital improvements to their
facilities. These solutions also tend to improve property values. With decreasing costs of utility-scale
renewable energy, utility-based renewable energy solutions may have a direct economic benefit to the
community in the future, particularly when considering the societal cost of carbon. Utility-based solutions
are also essential to achieve deep carbon reduction goals. When evaluating potential rate impacts or
possible premiums for electricity through tariffs, it’s therefore important to evaluate cost effectiveness in
conjunction with energy efficiency.
Three solutions in this plan tackle emissions associated with gasoline and diesel consumption. Two of the
solutions reduce the number of trips and/or trip length in conventional vehicles. These strategies rely
heavily on public investment in transit, compact land use development, and walking and biking
infrastructure. On the other hand, cost savings from these public investments are realized by residents
and visitors who choose to participate in these solutions. The third solution targets replacing conventional
vehicles with zero emission electric vehicles. The vehicle or fleet owner bears the incremental investment
cost and realizes the savings directly. However, similar to most of the other mitigation solutions, the actual
return on investment can varying depending on public policies, utility rebates, and tax incentives. To
address this, the solutions within this plan include dedicated advocacy and policy strategies that can
improve financial performance and therefore participation in these solutions community wide.
Achieving the climate resiliency goals in this plan will also require significant investment from all facets of
the Bozeman community, including the City of Bozeman, residents, businesses, and others. Unlike the
mitigation solutions, many of which yield a positive ROI that can be estimated using fuel savings over time,
the costs of resiliency solutions are more difficult to quantify. This is because resiliency solutions involve
transforming complex physical, social, and economic systems and decision-making. In terms of ROI of
resiliency, is estimated that planning for resilience during normal times will yield $6 in economic benefits
for every $1 spent (Multihazard Mitigation Council, 2017).
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 160
KEEPING THE PLAN ON TRACK
Plan Leadership
The City of Bozeman Sustainability Program Manager will continue to serve as the project manager for
Climate Plan implementation. The Sustainability Program Manager will serve as a central coordinator of
various implementation initiatives, establishing partnerships and delegating responsibility to others as
necessary, and seeking approval from the City Commission as appropriate. The Sustainability Manager
will also be responsible for continuing to convene stakeholder and leadership meetings, overseeing the
Climate Plan monitoring and reporting activities, and initiating future Climate Plan amendments and
updates.
A Charter will be developed within six months of plan adoption to further define specific actions and sub-
actions needed to implement priority Level 1 items. The Charter will serve as a work plan with defined
steps needed to accomplish action items with assigned responsible parties, timelines, budgets, and
priorities. The Charter is intended to be a living document that changes over time to reflect subsequent
changes and near term needs moving forward. Formation of a permanent Climate Advisory Board is
recommended to guide annual implementation planning, support monitoring and reporting, and provide
implementation leadership and assistance.
The Bozeman City Commission is responsible for adopting the Climate Plan and continuing to align City
policies, decisions, and funding to support its implementation.
Monitoring and Reporting
Ongoing monitoring of progress and reporting of achievements is essential in keeping the Climate Plan
current and on track to achieve the climate goals. Technology platforms such as Smartsheet and ArcGIS
Hub will be used to create a real-time Dashboard to measure progress over time. Significant potential
exists for developing informative public outreach solutions using modern tools to effectively engage the
community. Monitoring and reporting activities will include the following:
• Performance Monitoring: updating and reporting on the community’s GHG emissions every two
years (i.e., 2020, 2022, 2024, etc.).
• Implementation Monitoring: providing an annual memorandum or report summarizing the
status of each solution and associated implementation strategies (including achievements,
challenges, and general progress). Where feasible, a triple bottom line analysis of activities,
including environmental, social, and economic benefits will be included.
Amendments and Updates
Finally, because this Climate Plan is intended to provide a framework for emissions reduction for the next
three decades through 2050, it is likely that amendments and updates to the Plan will be necessary. Every
two years, the GHG emissions inventory will be updated, and this information will be provided to the City
Commission and the general public. Shortfalls in meeting the City's GHG emissions reduction goals may
necessitate changes to interim emissions reduction targets or more aggressive climate solutions, requiring
an update to the charter or implementation playbook, which will be undertaken at the City Commission's
discretion, with the general public having the opportunity to provide input.
Similarly, the implementation strategies identified in the implementation playbook will need to be
updated as actions are completed, and new ideas and priorities emerge. On an annual basis, the
implementation playbook will be reviewed and updated to reflect emerging or changing priorities,
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 161
modifications in timelines and sequencing, updates to partners or resources, and removal of completed
activities.
IMPLEMENTATION PLAYBOOK
The following table provides a summary of actions, organized by focus area and solution. Actions listed in
italic text indicate that another entity beyond the City of Bozeman is responsible for leading
implementation, with the City of Bozeman as a supporting implementation partner. See the detailed
action narratives in Chapter 3 for more details about implementation roles for each action.
Actions listed in bold text indicate that they may require amendments to the City of Bozeman Unified
Development Code (Chapter 38 of the City Code). The City Commission has established a twice-yearly
cycle for UDC updates. It is recommended that implementation of these code-related amendments follow
the established update cycle, to the extent practical and feasible.
Table 12. Summary of actions by focus area and priority level
Focus
Area Action
Priority
Level Focus Area 1. Healthy, Adaptive & Efficient Buildings Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
1.A.1. Increase Energy Efficiency at City Facilities 1
1.A.2. Use Data and Price Signals to Advance Energy Efficiency 1
1.A.3. Expand Energy Efficiency Information and Resources for Private Property 1
1.A.4. Establish an Energy and Water Benchmarking Standard for Commercial
Buildings 1
1.A.5. Require Home Energy Labeling at Time of Listing 2
1.A.6. Promote Energy Efficiency Financing and Investment 2
1.A.7. Create a Rental Registry Program to Advance Renter Safety and Energy
Efficiency 3
Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
1.B.1. Support High Performance Building Resources and Training for the
Development Community 1
1.B.2. Advocate for Adoption of State-Wide Net Zero Energy Code 1
1.B.3. Encourage High Performance Construction for All Publicly Funded Buildings 2
1.B.4. Analyze and Support Opportunities for District Energy 2
1.B.5. Offer a Voluntary Pathway & Incentives for Above-Code Construction 3
Solution C. Electrify Buildings
1.C.1. Advance Electrification Upgrades and Conversion Projects for City Facilities 2
1.C.2. Include an Electrification Component for Above-Code Construction 3
1.C.3. Support Outreach and Incentives for Electric Appliances and Equipment 3
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 162
Focus
Area Action
Priority
Level Focus Area 2. Responsible & Reliable Clean Energy Supply Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
2.D.1. Complete a 100% Net Clean Electricity Community Feasibility Study 2
2.D.2. Collaborative and Innovate Utility-Scale Solutions with Utility Provider 1
2.D.3. Support Policies to Expand Renewable Energy and Just Transition Initiatives 1
2.D.4. Encourage Philosophical Shift for Utility Provider 1
Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
2.E.1. Advance Green Tariff Program Development and Participation 1
Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
2.F.1. Plan and Install Renewable Energy Projects for City Facilities 1
2.F.2. Streamline Solar Permitting and Adopt Solar-Ready Code Provisions 1
2.F.3. Advance Distributed Solar Policies 2
2.F.4. Promote Education and Incentives for Distributed Renewable Energy and
Storage 3 Focus Area 3. Vibrant & Resilient Neighborhoods Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
3.G.1. Continue Regional Coordination on Compact Growth and Sustainable
Development 1
3.G.2. Review Development Code to Enhance Compact and Sustainable
Development 1
3.G.3. Develop Sustainable Neighborhoods Outreach 2
Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
3.H.1. Plan for Resilience Hubs at Critical Facilities 1
3.H.2. Advance Resilience in Development Code and Development Review 1
3.H.3. Support Business and Residential Preparedness Outreach 2
3.H.4. Incorporate Resilience into Infrastructure Plans 2
Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
3.I.1. Support Community and Neighborhood Resilience Programming 1
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 163
Focus
Area Action
Priority
Level Focus Area 4. Diverse & Accessible Transportation Options Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
4.J.1. Prioritize Regional Multi-modal Planning and Connectivity 1
4.J.2. Pursue Innovative Funding for Pedestrian and Bicycle Connections and
Network 1
4.J.3. Improve Maintenance of Multi-Modal Infrastructure 1
4.J.4. Pursue Sustainable Transit Funding and Expansion 1
4.J.5. Support Employee Trip Reduction Programs and Transportation Demand
Management 1
4.J.6. Support Regional Transit Service Coordination and Outreach 1
4.J.7. Leverage Parking Policies to Encourage Other Modes of Transportation 2
4.J.8. Develop Bike and Car Share Programs 3
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
4.K.1. Support Community EV Roadmap Development 1
4.K.2. Collaborate to Install Publicly Accessible EV Infrastructure 1
4.K.3. City Fleet and Transit EV Investment 2
4.K.4. Advocate for EV Utility Rates, Incentives, Infrastructure, and Efficiency
Standards 2
4.K.5. Limit Wasteful Vehicle Emissions 2
4.K.6. Support EV Group Buy and Outreach 3
Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
4.L.1. Build Awareness of Air Travel Impacts and Alternatives 2
4.L.2. Advocate for Increased Air Travel Efficiency 3 Focus Area 5. Comprehensive & Sustainable Waste Reduction Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
5.M.1. Actively Promote Source Reduction, Recycling, and Repair 1
5.M.2. Expand Composting Services and Collection 1
5.M.3. Improve Waste Policies, Services, and Operations 2
5.M.4. Support Construction Waste Diversion 2
5.M.5. Encourage the Development of Material Markets 3
5.M.6. Develop Plans for Green Purchasing and Zero Waste Events for City
Operations 3
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 164
Focus
Area Action
Priority
Level Focus Area 6. Regenerative Greenspace, Food Systems & Natural Environments Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
6.N.1. Support the Formation of a Local Food Council 1
6.N.2. Help Develop a Food System Assessment and Security Plan 2
6.N.3. Encourage Local Agriculture and Preservation of Working Lands 2
6.N.4. Support Local Food Production, Processing, and Distribution 3
Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
6.O.1. Invest in Landscaping and Irrigation Upgrades at City Facilities 1
6.O.2. Build on the Success of Water Conservation Education and Incentives 2
6.O.3. Evaluate Additional Water Conservation Code and Water Rate Structure
Adjustments
2
Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
6.P.1. Protect Local Wetlands for Flood Resilience and Water Quality 1
6.P.2. Maintain and Expand the Urban Forest 1
6.P.3. Enhance Greenspace and Carbon Sequestration for New Development 1
6.P.4. Provide Outreach on Water Pollution Prevention and Carbon Sequestration
Strategies 2
COMMUNITY GUIDE TO IMPLEMENTATION
As the City and its partners create climate action policies, programs, and services, Bozeman residents and
businesses can do their part by learning about their contribution to Bozeman’s greenhouse gas emissions
and becoming supportive adopters of new climate actions as they become available. Example action items
that invite all Bozeman residents, businesses, and community organizations to get involved are outlined
on the following pages.
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 165
Inviting Bozeman Residents to Join the Climate Effort!
Bozeman residents are encouraged to print a copy of this page and the next as a quick reference guide
for how you can do your part in supporting the Climate Plan. See the more detailed action descriptions
in the Climate Plan to learn more about how each action contributes to Bozeman’s climate goas. Check
off actions as you complete them!
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 166
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 167
Inviting Bozeman Businesses and
Community Organizations to Join the Climate Effort!
Reduce energy usage during peak energy demand (4pm to 8pm) (Action 1.A.2.)
Become a City of Bozeman Energy Project Partner (Action 1.A.3.)
Contact NorthWestern Energy to schedule an energy appraisal and implement appraisal
recommendations (Action 1.A.3.)
Monitor and benchmark your building’s energy performance (Action 1.A.4.)
Explore opportunities to install on-site renewable energy and storage on your property
(Action 2.F.4.)
Review City maps to understand if you are in a location that is vulnerable to flooding, fires,
or other hazards and develop an emergency and continuity of operations plan if a hazard
event occurs (Action 3.H.3.)
Engage your employees or constituents in emergency preparedness planning, drills, and
protocols (Action 3.H.3.)
Provide options and incentives for employee telecommuting and alternatives to single-
occupancy vehicle travel (e.g., bike to work days, preferred parking spots, carpool matching,
bicycle racks, wellness programs, etc.) (Actions 4.J.2. and 4.J.5.)
Install electric vehicle charging infrastructure for fleet, employee, and potentially public use
(Action 4.K.2.)
Convert fleet vehicles and equipment to electric or alternative fuel models (Action 4.K.3.)
Establish and enforce employee idling policies when using personal or fleet vehicles for
business use (Action 4.K.5.).
Limit non-essential airline travel and/or purchase carbon offsets for airline trips (Action
4.L.1.)
Review your supply chain and consumption practices and look for opportunities to use less
packaging, reuse or recycle materials, and compost organic waste (Action 5.M.1.)
Provide markets for recycled products by supporting suppliers and businesses that use
recycled materials (Action 5.M.1.)
Reuse or donate used equipment and goods (Action 5.M.1.)
Donate unused food and right-size large catering orders (Action 5.M.1.)
Plant and maintain trees (Action 6.P.2.)
Purchase products that support growth of the local food system (Action 6.N.3.).
Update irrigation equipment and landscaping to use less water (Action 6.O.2.)
Reduce pesticide and herbicide use (Action 6.P.4.)
Chapter 4: Implementation Guide 168
REFERENCES
References 169
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References A1
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A1
APPENDIX A: MITIGATION ANALYSIS SUMMARY
The anticipated impact of each solution on the business-as-usual fuel use and emissions for each goal year
are shown in Table 13. Descriptions of assumptions made developing these scenarios are described in the
sections below. Note that potential emissions reductions were not calculated for solutions that primarily
present resiliency or carbon sequestration benefits.
Table 13: Contribution of each mitigation solution to Bozeman's mitigation goals based on pathway B
Target
2025
Paris Accord
2030
100% Net Clean
Electricity
2050
Carbon Neutral Solutions
Healthy, Adaptive and Efficient Buildings
A. Improve
Efficiency of
Existing Buildings
Electricity
Savings (kWh) 75,000,000 149,000,000 447,000,000
Natural Gas
Savings (therms) 4,200,000 8,400,000 25,000,000
B. Achieve Net-
Zero New
Construction
Electricity
Savings (kWh) 51,000,000 64,000,000 303,000,000
Natural Gas
Savings (therms) 2,700,000 3,400,000 16,200,000
C. Electrify
Buildings
Natural Gas
Savings (therms) 0 0 9,200,000
Increased
Electricity Use
(kWh)
0 0 269,000,000
Responsible and Reliable Clean Energy Supply
D. Increase Utility
Clean Energy Mix
Increased Clean
Electricity
Production
(kWh)
80,000,000 100,000,000 306,000,000
E. Develop and
Promote Utility
Green Power
Programs
Increased Clean
Electricity
Production
(kWh)
124,000,000 98,000,000 0
F. Increase
Community-Based
Distributed
Renewable Energy
Increased Clean
Electricity
Production
(kWh)
16,000,000 40,000,000 80,000,000
Vibrant and Resilient Neighborhoods
G. Facilitate
Compact
Development
Patterns
Gasoline
Savings (gallons) 1,900,000 3,800,000 11,200,000
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A2
Target
2025
Paris Accord
2030
100% Net Clean Electricity
2050
Carbon Neutral Solutions
Diverse and Accessible Transportation Options
J. Increase
Walking, Bicycling,
Carpooling and
Use of Transit
Gasoline
Savings (gallons) 1,700,000 3,400,000 10,200,000
K. Decrease Direct
Vehicle Emissions
Gasoline
Savings (gallons) 800,000 2,700,000 10,600,000
Increased
Electricity Use
(kWh)
6,000,000 19,000,000 74,000,000
L. Improve Air
Travel Efficiency
GHG Emissions
Reduction (MT
CO2e)
1,000 2,000 5,900
Comprehensive and Sustainable Waste Reduction
M. Move Toward a
Circular Economy
and Zero Waste
Community
GHG Emissions
Reduction (MT
CO2e)
7,100 14,100 42,300
Future Technologies
Future Solutions
GHG Emissions
Reduction (MT
CO2e)
0 0 113,000
Summary by Fuel
Electricity Savings (kWh) 126,000,000 213,000,000 750,000,000
Additional Clean Energy Production
(kWh) 220,000,000 238,000,000 386,000,000
Natural Gas Savings (therms) 6,900,000 11,800,000 50,400,000
Gasoline Savings (gallons) 4,400,000 9,900,000 32,000,000
Other Emissions Reductions 8,100 16,100 161,200
Total GHG Emissions Reduction
(MT CO2e) 319,000 451,000 1,218,000
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A3
QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY
The sections below provide basic information on the methodology used to calculate the impact of the
mitigation solutions outlined in this plan.
Baseline & Forecast
The 2016 GHG inventory detailed in the 2017 Bozeman Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report
was used to establish a baseline GHG emissions inventory for the community. This is also the data, along
with the baseline 2008 inventory, on which the council made the decisions about the mitigation goals for
the community. To understand what the emissions in 2050 were likely to be if no action was taken, we
took the per capita emissions from the 2016 inventory, and applied to the likely population range for
2050. To estimate community population in 2050, we reviewed the population projections from a variety
of community planning efforts outlined in Figure 22 as well as the more recent population projections in
the Demographic and Real Estate Marketing Assessment.
Figure 22. Various population projections for the City of Bozeman
These population estimates were graphed and a high and low growth scenario were established to
encompass the majority of the data points as shown in Figure 23.
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A4
Figure 23. Estimated population growth scenarios
These growth scenarios estimate that the 2050 population will be between 70,000 and 105,500 people in
2050. These population estimates were multiplied by the 2016 per capita GHG emissions to calculate the
business as usual emission between 1.2 million and 0.8 million MT CO2e. To plan for worst case scenario,
all calculations used to determine the required contribution of each solution to meet the City’s goals were
based on the high growth scenario.
Note: NorthWestern Energy provided revised emissions factors for the 2008 and 2016 electricity use in
2020. The impact of the updated emissions factor changes were reviewed and did not result in a material
change in the total reported emissions for the 2008 and 2016 inventories. Based on guidance from the
Global Protocol for Community-scale Greenhouse Gas Inventories, the baseline inventory was not
recalculated. The projected 2050 business as usual GHG emissions estimates were updated to reflect the
revised emissions factors.
105,500
70,000
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050Population Estimate Year
Population Estimate
Max
Min
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A5
Identifying and Prioritizing Solutions
To meet the City’s ambitious carbon neutral by 2050 goal, solutions must be identified to address all
sources of GHG emissions within the City including residential and commercial buildings, on-road
transportation, aviation emissions, and waste. The solutions identified through stakeholder engagement
are listed below and the solutions with significant or measurable mitigation potential for the sources
noted are in bold:
• Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
• Solution B. Achieve Net Zero Energy New Construction
• Solution C. Electrify Buildings
• Solution D. Increase Utility Clean Energy Mix
• Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
• Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
• Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
• Solution H. Reduce Vulnerability of Neighborhoods and Infrastructure to Natural Hazards
• Solution I. Enhance Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness
• Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling, and Use of Transit
• Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
• Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
• Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
• Solution N. Cultivate a Robust Local Food System
• Solution O. Manage and Conserve Water Resources
• Solution P. Manage Land and Resources to Sequester Carbon
Potential Impact by Solution
To understand the potential greenhouse gas emissions impact of each mitigation solution, a best in class
estimate of potential impact was calculated from leading communities around the country. This was
compared to the current efforts in Bozeman to provide a solution baseline. Recognizing that best in class
examples are rapidly evolving as cities and states innovate and adopt new policies and technologies, using
existing examples of best practices helps demonstrate the viability of the proposed solutions. The
methodology is described below by solution including assumptions made and resources referenced. The
potential emissions reduction based on the best in class scenarios described below were presented to the
Climate Team during Workshop 2 to get their feedback on the potential emissions savings from each
solution applied to Bozeman. Through a keypad polling exercise, the stakeholders were asked to consider
climate, political will, and existing momentum to determine the emissions potential for each solution in
Bozeman expressed as a percentage of the best in class scenario. This is expressed in a percentage of the
best in class emissions reduction by scenario below and shown in Figure 24. Note that interactions
between solutions has not been taken into account at this phase of analysis. This was considered in the
scenarios and goal modeling.
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A6
Figure 24. Estimated emissions reduction potential by solution
Note that Solutions H, I, N, O, and P were not analyzed in terms of greenhouse gas emissions reduction
potential as they are primary resiliency and/or carbon sequestration solutions that cannot be modeled in
this analysis.
Solution A. Improve Efficiency of Existing Buildings
Current Efforts
As part of NorthWestern Energy’s 2019 Resource Procurement Plan, they evaluated the potential
electricity savings from the current rebate program between 2015 and 2034 to be 7% of total use. This
estimate was extrapolated to 2050 (NorthWestern Energy, 2019). Similar data were not readily available
for natural gas savings, so the same level of savings was assumed for natural gas efficiency.
Best in Class
Arizona’s second largest utility, Salt River Project, has the best in class energy efficiency programs in the
mountain west with 2.1% energy savings in 2013 and reached similar levels in 2014, 2015, and 2018.
Arizona was identified as the top performing state outside of California by the American Council for an
Energy-Efficient Economy (Southwest Energy Efficiency Project, 2019). This annual savings estimate was
projected to 2050. The total estimated energy reduction was compared to the expected electricity savings
under the advanced energy efficiency scenario in an ACEEE study which considers the impact of deep
penetration of existing energy efficiency technologies in 2050 (American Council for an Energy-Efficient
Economy, 2012). Based on this study, the total energy efficiency savings was capped at 51% of baseline
energy use.
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A7
Bozeman’s Best
Based on feedback from stakeholders in workshop 2, the potential reduction of electricity and natural gas
use from energy efficiency was assumed to be 85% of the best in class scenario.
Solution B. Achieve Net-Zero New Construction
Current Efforts
The number of new homes built to net-zero ready construction standards in 2019 was considered to be
negligible.
Best in Class
The C40 Cities initiative to encourage cities to commit to work toward net zero construction by 2030 was
considered to be best in class performance in this emerging field. To evaluate the impact of this
commitment, the increase in electricity and natural gas use due to new buildings anticipated before and
after 2030 based on the max growth scenario was estimated. Using the DOE definition of net zero ready
home, the energy use of net zero buildings was estimated to be 50% of baseline energy use (US
Department of Energy, n.d.). The adjusted energy use of new buildings was calculated assuming that 50%
of buildings built between now and 2030 will be net zero energy ready (i.e., 50% energy use reduction)and
after 2030, 100% of all buildings constructed will be net zero ready (i.e., 50% energy use reduction).
Bozeman’s Best
Based on feedback from workshop participants, Bozeman’s Best was analyzed as 76% of the best in class
scenario. This means that 76% of all new buildings built after 2030 would be built to net zero standards
(i.e., 50% energy use reduction) or that in effect all new construction achieves an overall average of 38%
energy use reduction (76% of 50%). In addition, 38% (76% of 50%) of the buildings built between now and
2030 will be built to net zero standards (50% reduction) or that in effect all new construction achieves an
overall average of 19% energy use reduction.
Solution C. Electrify Buildings
Current Efforts
It was assumed there are not currently any significant efforts to electrify building energy loads in
Bozeman.
Best in Class
A report by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) shows that 80% of commercial and
residential natural gas loads could be electrified (National Renewable Energy Labratory, 2017). Based on
the GHG inventory energy use data, there are no significant industrial loads in Bozeman to consider. The
total potential savings assumes that the City reaches its 100% renewable electricity goal.
Bozeman’s Best
The potential for electrification of residential and commercial loads in Bozeman was assumed to be 70%
of the best in class scenario based on stakeholder feedback.
Solution D. Increase Utility Renewable Energy Resource Mix
Current Efforts
At workshop 2, NorthWestern Energy’s carbon reduction plan presented in Our Vision for Montana was
used as the baseline scenario. This report projects emissions factor reductions through 2045. It was
assumed no significant changes would be implemented between 2045 and 2050.
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A8
Best in Class
Several utilities including Platte River Power Authority in Colorado, Idaho Power, and Xcel Energy have
made public pledges to eliminate carbon from their generation mix by 2050 or sooner. The total potential
GHG savings assumes business as usual growth in electric energy use from residential and commercial
buildings. Additional electric load from building or transportation was not considered. The
interdependencies between strategies was taken into account during scenario modeling (Figure 13).
Bozeman’s Best
Based on stakeholder feedback, it was assumed by 2050 the carbon free generation sources for
NorthWestern Energy will be 88% of its total energy generation.
Solution E. Develop and Promote Utility Green Power Programs
Current Efforts
NorthWestern Energy financial reports from E+ Green program were used to estimate the amount of
electricity purchased through this program (NorthWestern Energy, 2018). The total was scaled to the city
based on the total electricity generated by NorthWestern Energy compared to the electricity used by
Bozeman.
Best in class:
Current green tariff programs from across the country were evaluated to understand the potential size of
the program. The largest programs could serve the entire City, so the City is likely not limited by the
amount of electricity they could procure by the mechanism. It was assumed that all of electricity from
MSU (based on FY19 campus electricity use) and municipal operations (estimated as % of total community
electricity) would be included. For the rest of the community energy use, it was estimated that 20% of
homes and businesses would participate based on an NREL study on best in class green power program
participation (National Renewable Enegy Labratory, 2017).
Bozeman’s Best
It was assumed Bozeman could attain 72% of the best in class scenario based on stakeholder input.
Solution F. Increase Community-Based Distributed Renewable Energy Generation
Current Efforts
The program participation rates in NorthWestern Energy’s E+ Renewable rebate program from the
program evaluation report were used to estimate the number of community and rooftop solar systems in
NorthWestern Energy’s service territory (SBW Consulting, Inc., 2013). This estimate was scaled to
Bozeman based on electricity use of the city compared to NorthWestern Energy generation.
Best in Class
Based on a 2017 NREL study of the potential behind the meter renewable energy generation potential
was modeled on three different scenarios. In the central scenario modeled there a total of 850 MW of
installed behind the meter in 2050 with incremental estimates of 250 MW in 2030 and 100 MW in 2025
(National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 2017). These estimates were scaled to Bozeman based on the
percentage of NorthWestern’s electricity generation delivered to Bozeman to calculate the best in class
scenario. In addition to rooftop solar, 50 MW of community solar was used to estimate the community
solar garden potential based on 100% Net Clean Energy goals set by the City of Fort Collins. For context,
the median community solar installation in 2020 based on an NREL database was 2.1 MW (National
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A9
Renewable Energy Laboratory, 2020). This means that best in class performance is installing one
community garden of similar size nearly every year between now and 2050.
Bozeman’s Best
Based on stakeholder input it was assumed that distributed generation could reach 83% of the best in
class scenario for community solar generation. For rooftop solar generation, the estimated production
was not scaled because the central scenario from the 2017 NREL study was chosen rather than the high
adoption scenario.
Solution G. Facilitate Compact Development Patterns
Current Efforts
While Bozeman has made considerable efforts to promote compact development patterns, there has
been significant growth outside of City boundaries making it difficult to attribute significant reductions in
vehicles miles traveled to compact development initiatives. Note that energy efficiency benefits from
compact developments are captured in solution B.
Best in Class
Based on a study examining the effects of density on driving patterns there were a handful of top
performing cities. The mean density increase from these cities was used to estimate the change in
population density that could reasonably be expected in Bozeman over the 30-year planning horizon
(DAVID BROWNSTONE, UNC Irvine, 2008). Based on the factors for density and proximity to downtown
(or other commercial nodes), a separate study that evaluates the effect of various factors on Vehicle Miles
Traveled (VMT) was used to estimate the reduction in miles traveled (Florida, 2017)
Bozeman’s Best
Based on stakeholder feedback, we assumed that Bozeman could achieve 91% of the VMT reduction in
the best in class scenario.
Solution J. Increase Walking, Bicycling, Carpooling and Use of Transit
Current Efforts
Based on US Census data, the percentage of Bozeman residents commuting using transit and active modes
of transportation decreased between 2012 and 2016.
Best in Class
A study of the best performing cities as a percentage of citizens using public transit was reviewed to find
a high performing city with similar characteristics. Ithaca, NY was chosen since it is a similar sized college
town (rails-to-trails conservancy). At the time of the study, 28.8% chose to commute using transit and
active modes of transportation.
Bozeman’s Best
Based on workshop feedback it was assumed that Bozeman would be able to achieve 92% of best in class
transit and active commuting or 26% of residents choosing to walk, bike, carpool, or use transit.
Solution K. Decrease Direct Vehicle Emissions
Current efforts
The increase in fuel efficiency from the Bozeman GHG inventory between 2012 and 2016 was extrapolated
to 2050 at half the rate to account for changes in fuel efficiency regulations. The rate of fuel efficiency
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A10
increase seen in Bozeman was similar to the national change, so it is likely due to fuel standards for
vehicles. The percentage of EVs registered in MT in 2018 was <1%, so it was assumed to be negligible in
Bozeman (Auto Alliance, 2018).
Best in Class
It was assumed that by 2050, vehicle fuel efficiency gains would be from EVs rather than more efficient
Internal Combustion Vehicles (ICE). To understand best in class EV adoption, manufacturer predictions on
the percentage of sales that would be EV were reviewed (MJB&A, 2019). Then the national vehicle
replacement rate was used to understand what percent of the Bozeman vehicle fleet would likely be
replaced by 2050 (Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 2019). Based on national EV sales projections to 2050
and the vehicle turnover rate, 70% of vehicles will be EVs by 2050 nationwide. Based on this, we assume
that best in class cities will be nearly all EV, so best in class performance was set at 95% of light duty fleet
being replaced by EVs. It is assumed that the City has reached its 100% renewable electricity goal to realize
maximum benefit from EVs by 2050.
While technology is changing rapidly, it was assumed that the EV conversion is limited to light-duty
vehicles since there is limited technology currently available for heavy duty applications and no
commercially viable options for semi-trucks. Any improvements in this area between now and 2050 will
be captured in the future solutions bucket.
Bozeman’s Best
It was assumed that the community could reach 86% of the best in class scenario or about 82% of light
duty vehicles converted to EVs based on stakeholder input during workshop 2.
Solution L. Improve Air Travel Efficiency
Current Efforts
There was a significant increase in airline emissions between 2012 and 2016 identified in the Bozeman
GHG Inventory.
Best in Class
Based on Project Drawdown, there is the potential to increase airline fuel efficiency by 11% through
installation of existing technologies (Project Drawdown, n.d.).
Bozeman’s Best
Based on stakeholder feedback it was assumed that Bozeman would be able to reach about 62% of the
best in class scenario or a 7% increase in fuel efficiency.
Solution M. Move Toward a Circular Economy and Zero Waste Community
Current efforts
The landfilled waste per person went down by 9% between 2012 and 2016. This rate of reduction was
projected through 2050. Since recycling rates are starting to plateau across the country this projected
waste reduction estimate was de-rated by 50%.
Best in Class
Austin, TX has developed a plan to reach 90% waste reduction by 2040 (Gary Liss & Associates, 2008).
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A11
Bozeman’s Best
Based on stakeholder feedback, it was estimated that Bozeman could reach 80% of the best in class
scenario or about 72% reduction in landfilled waste.
Scenarios & Goal Modeling
Next, a top-down analysis was done based on the business-as-usual projections, to create emissions
reduction scenarios that allow the City to meet its emission reduction and clean electricity goals. The
business as usual scenario was built using fuel use and emissions estimates from the 2016 GHG inventory
scaled by population using the maximum population growth scenario. The scenarios in each of the goal
years are detailed below.
2025: Paris Accord
To develop a scenario allowing the City to meet their 2025 commitment, it was assumed that all efficiency
and electrification strategies are on pace to meet Bozeman’s best scenario in 2050 with the following
exceptions:
1. No meaningful building electrification is expected until after 2030.
2. EV transition for the community’s light-duty fleet is assumed to have a more exponential uptake
curve rather than the linear progression assumed for other strategies based on national sales
trends over the last 10 years.
Next, the amount of clean electricity generation that would be required for Bozeman to meet its carbon
reduction goal was calculated. For this report, we modeled two potential scenarios for generating the
necessary clean electricity.
No Additional Utility Renewable Energy Generation - Pathway A: This pathway shows how the City can
generate the amount of required clean electricity without any additional clean energy added to
NorthWestern Energy’s electricity generation mix. As of 2019, NorthWestern Energy delivered
approximately 280 million kWh of clean electricity to Bozeman or about 56% of the projected clean
electricity required in 2025. The amount of renewable electricity generated through distributed
generation within the city remains unchanged at 3%, and the remaining 40% of required clean electricity
is purchased through utility-scale green tariff or other procurement mechanism. This level of participation
is slightly higher than the modeled best in class scenario, 40% vs. 38%. This means that success in meeting
the 2025 goal without additional clean electricity from the utility will require significant community
support for the green tariff or for other efficiency measures to outperform what has been projected.
Additional Utility Renewable Energy Generation - Pathway B: Under this pathway, NorthWestern Energy is
able to leverage new clean energy generation opportunities to meet their stated carbon intensity goal.
Assuming that the carbon intensity of the fossil fuel electricity generation mix remains constant, the utility
mix will include 72% clean electricity. Based on the distributed generation installed capacity curve
described in the Bozeman’s Best Scenario, distributed generation can provide about 3% of the required
clean electricity. This means that the City must work with NorthWestern Energy to establish an agreement
to provide about 25% of the City’s electricity needs through a green tariff. It is assumed that this green
tariff agreement allows subscribers to replace a portion of NorthWestern’s fossil fuel generation with
clean electricity sources.
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A12
2030: 100% Net Clean Electricity
To meet this goal, only scenarios impacting electricity use were considered. Bozeman’s best scenario was
first applied for energy efficiency and net zero new construction solutions using a maximum annual
implementation rate. This was used to determine the maximum energy use reduction that might be
expected from these efficiency measures by 2030. It was assumed that there would be no significant
building electrification efforts until the City is able to reach their 100% clean electricity goal to maximize
the benefit from these efforts and give the technologies some time to mature. Next, the expected increase
to electricity use from the electrification of the light duty vehicles in the Bozeman community was
considered to determine the total amount of clean energy generation that would be required to meet
Bozeman’s projected electricity use.
The required clean electricity to meet the City’s goal of 100% net clean electricity will be provided through
the generation from the three renewable energy solutions (D-F). Again, we modeled two potential
scenarios for generating the necessary clean electricity.
No Additional Utility Renewable Energy Generation - Pathway A: This pathway shows how the City can
generate the amount of required clean electricity without any additional clean energy added to
NorthWestern’s electricity generation mix. As of 2019, NorthWestern Energy delivered about 280 million
kWh of clean electricity to Bozeman or about 54% of the projected clean electricity required in 2030. The
amount of renewable electricity generated through distributed generation within the city remains
unchanged at 8%, and the remaining 38% of required clean electricity is purchased through utility-scale
green tariff or other procurement mechanism. This level of participation is in line with the percentage
participants in the community described in the Best in Class scenario.
Note: Other solutions shown in Table 13 not described above show the level of impact required to be on
pace to achieve the City’s 2050 goal.
Additional Utility Renewable Energy Generation - Pathway B: Under this pathway, NorthWestern Energy
leverages new clean energy generation opportunities to meet their stated 2030 carbon intensity reduction
goal. Assuming that the carbon intensity of the remaining fossil fuel generation remains constant, the
utility mix will include 73% clean electricity. Based on the distributed generation installed capacity curve
described in the Bozeman’s Best Scenario, distributed generation can provide about 8% of the required
clean electricity. The remaining 19% clean electricity will be purchased through utility-scale green tariff
programs.
2050: Carbon Neutrality
For the 2050 scenario, the maximum expected savings from each energy efficiency and electrification
solution (A-C, G, J-L, and M) shown above were applied to the projected business as usual (BAU) energy
use and emissions from each GHG emissions source. This allowed the anticipated total energy
requirements of the City to be determined.
The required clean electricity will be provided through the generation from the three clean energy
solutions (D-F). The City is expected to have reached 100% net clean electricity by 2030 and will need to
continue to add clean energy generation to meet growing electricity demand from building and
Appendix A: Mitigation Analysis Summary A13
transportation electrification as well as City growth. For this report, we modeled two potential scenarios
for generating the necessary clean electricity.
Additional Utility Renewable Energy Generation - Pathway B: This pathway shows how the City can
generate the amount of required clean electricity without any additional clean energy added to
NorthWestern Energy’s electricity generation mix. As of 2019, NorthWestern Energy delivered about 280
million kWh of clean electricity to Bozeman or about 42% of the projected clean electricity required in
2050. The amount of renewable electricity generated through distributed generation within the city
produces an additional 20% of the required clean electricity. This leaves the remaining 38% of required
clean electricity to be purchased through utility-scale green tariff or other procurement mechanism. While
this scenario doesn’t rely on the utility to add additional clean electricity generation, it does require the
City and the Utility to work together to contract clean electricity through the green tariff solution.
The remaining fuel use and GHG emissions required will need to be addressed through future
opportunities or technologies that will likely arise between the writing of this report and 2050. The
remaining energy use and emissions that will need to be addressed by future opportunities include:
1. Natural gas use from existing facilities that cannot be electrified
2. Heavy duty vehicle emissions
3. Remaining landfill emissions
4. Aviation transportation emissions
These future opportunities may include local carbon sequestration and/or biofuels.
Additional Utility Renewable Energy Generation - Pathway B: Under this pathway, NorthWestern Energy
leverages new clean energy generation opportunities to reach 88% clean energy by 2050, which exceeds
their stated carbon intensity reduction goal. Distributed generation in the City generates the remaining
12% of the required renewable energy. It should be noted that the defined Bozeman’s Best distributed
generation, about 60 MW of rooftop solar and 40 MW of community solar gardens, could generate more
than the required clean energy. This leaves some redundancy in case efficiency solutions do not perform
as well as currently modeled. Community solar development is dependent upon a change in state-law
and/or a new tariff for utility-owned community solar (as specified in Action 2.F.3).
Appendix B: Existing Plan Summary B1
APPENDIX B: EXISTING PLAN SUMMARY
2020 BOZEMAN YELLOWSTONE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MASTER PLAN
The Master Plan for the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) was undertaken by the Gallatin
Airport Authority to outline a 20-year long range, orderly direction for airport development to yield a safe,
efficient, economical, and environmentally acceptable air transportation facility.
https://bozemanairport.com/reports-and-statistics
BOZEMAN COMMUNITY PLAN (2020 – DRAFT UNDERWAY)
The Community Plan will serve as a document to help guide the City on how to grow and develop within
the context of rapidly changing land development and economic conditions. The Community Plan is
oriented around seven themes: a city of neighborhoods, a city bolstered by downtown and
complementary districts, a city influenced by our natural environment, parks, and open lands, a city that
prioritizes accessibility and mobility choices, a city powered by its creative, innovative, and
entrepreneurial economy, and a city engaged in regional coordination.
https://www.bozeman.net/city-projects/bozeman-community-plan-update
BOZEMAN DROUGHT MANAGEMENT PLAN (2017)
The Bozeman Drought Management Plan focuses primarily on short- and long-term actions to help
mitigate potential drought. Uniquely, the plan recognizes the potential impacts of climate change on
Bozeman’s water system and the importance of planning for the additional uncertainty associated with
this future change. Bozeman is expected to experience longer and more frequent drought periods in the
future, partially associated with decreased snowpack.
https://www.bozeman.net/Home/ShowDocument?id=4791
BOZEMAN GUIDELINES FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION & THE NEIGHBORHOOD
CONSERVATION OVERLAY DISTRICT
The City of Bozeman adopted the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District (NCOD) in 1991. The goal
of the zoning overlay is to conserve neighborhood character, protect the integrity of historic structures
and provide public notice to adjoining property owners of potential changes. The Bozeman Design
Guidelines for Historic Preservation & Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District provide guidelines for
appropriate work within the NCOD, Historic Districts and Individually Listed Properties. The guidelines
address topics such as commercial and residential building height, materials, and utilities.
https://library.municode.com/mt/bozeman/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIICOOR_CH38UNDEC
O_ART3ZODILAUS_DIV38.340OVDIST_PT1NECOOVDIHIPR
BOZEMAN PARKS, RECREATION, OPEN SPACE, AND TRAILS PLAN (2007)
The Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Trails Plan presents a roadmap for providing an equitable, well
maintained park system to serve all of Bozeman’s residents. While the plan does not include any mention
of climate change, the implementation of this plan may be seen as a mitigation tool by encouraging the
protection and creation of greenspace and natural systems and encouraging the use of multi-modal trail
systems.
https://www.bozeman.net/home/showdocument?id=3284
Appendix B: Existing Plan Summary B2
CITY OF BOZEMAN AND MSU STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN (2019)
The Stormwater Management Plan describes the plans and programs in place to improve water
quality, comply with environmental regulations, and improve urban flood resiliency and climate
change preparedness.
https://www.bozeman.net/home/showdocument?id=5681
CITY OF BOZEMAN STRATEGIC PLAN (2018)
With a shorter implementation horizon than the Community Plan, the interactive City of
Bozeman Strategic plan puts many of the high-level ideas of broader community and area plans into an
actionable format. The Bozeman Strategic Plan provides several actionable strategies oriented around
community safety and risk abatement, well-planned growth, and a sustainable environment, among
others. While many of these strategies relate to Climate Plan focus areas, including City Assets,
Transportation, and Greenspace, the Strategic Plan also includes one goal explicitly linked to
Climate Change: “Reduce community and municipal Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, increase the
supply of clean and renewable energy; foster related businesses.”
https://strategic-plan-bozeman.opendata.arcgis.com/
CLIMATE VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT AND RESILIENCE STRATEGY (2019)
This plan inventoried key City infrastructure to evaluate Bozeman’s climate-induced municipal
vulnerability and identified key actions to maintain and enhance resilience. Heat, flooding, drought,
declining snowpack, wildfire, and winter storms were the top climate hazards against which
vulnerability was assessed.
https://www.bozeman.net/home/showdocument?id=8958
COMMUNITY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN (2011)
The Community Climate Action Plan extends beyond municipal stewardship and action to identify climate
goals and objectives for all of Bozeman. This plan establishes a goal of “reducing community-wide
greenhouse gas emissions 10% below 2008 levels by 2025.” The 2011 Climate Action Plan includes a
list of strategies oriented toward mitigating climate impacts through more efficient transportation,
energy, buildings, and waste systems. This Climate Plan effort is an update to the Community Climate
Action Plan.
https://weblink.bozeman.net/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id234376&dbid=0&repo=BOZEMAN&cr=1
COMMUNITY GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS REPORT (2017)
The Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report is primarily an inventory of Bozeman’s
emissions, focused on transportation, buildings, waste, and water/wastewater. However, the end of
this report includes a brief recommendations section. Recommendations include pursuing
electrification of the vehicle fleet, commercial and residential building efficiency, and the
completion of a vulnerability assessment and Climate Plan. The vulnerability assessment was
completed in 2019 and the Climate Plan is currently underway.
https://www.bozeman.net/home/showdocument?id=5418
Appendix B: Existing Plan Summary B3
DOWNTOWN BOZEMAN IMPROVEMENT PLAN (2019)
The Downtown Bozeman Improvement Plan identifies climate change as an important backdrop for
community planning efforts. Several focus areas of the plan, such as Heart of a Thriving Bozeman,
Walkable and Accessible, and Connected to Nature & Culture, include recommendations that tie directly
into the framework of the Bozeman Climate Plan (e.g., Community Development, Transportation, and
Greenspace and Natural Systems).
https://s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/dba-2021/Resource-
PDFs/2019_DBIP_with_Appendix_FINAL_ADOPTED_4-15-19.pdf
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (2017)
Though the Economic Development Strategy does not explicitly consider climate change, several of the
plan’s objectives and recommended actions fit into the Climate Plan’s focus areas. Climate-related
strategies include efficient density and community development and a focus on multi-modal
transportation. The Economic Development Strategy also elevates the need to protect and enhance the
outdoor and tourism industry, which is one of Bozeman’s most climate-vulnerable economic drivers.
http://weblink.bozeman.net/WebLink8/0/doc/120846/Electronic.aspx
GALLATIN COUNTY HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN (2018)
Similar to the Climate Vulnerability Assessment and Resilience Strategy (2019), the Gallatin County Hazard
Mitigation Plan focuses on preparedness for hazards, including wildfire, earthquakes, and flooding. While
the plan is not focused specifically on climate-induced hazards, it does recognize the role of climate
change in exacerbating hazards in the future, especially wildfires.
https://www.readygallatin.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/FINAL-DRAFT-Gallatin-County-Hazard-
Mit-Plan_05-30-2019_plus-MSU-Annex-CWPP_low_res.pdf
INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCES PLAN (2013)
The Integrated Water Resource Plan serves to “guide water supply and water use policy for the next fifty
years.” Strategies focus primarily on demand reduction and supply diversification. While the Plan is
primarily a technical document to ensure the provision of water for Bozeman into the future, it recognizes
the potential impact of climate change on water systems in the future.
https://www.bozeman.net/home/showdocument?id=836
MIDTOWN ACTION PLAN
The Midtown Action Plan aims to attract targeted private investment to the Midtown Urban Renewal
District by removing barriers to development through strategic infrastructure investments and incentives.
The objective of the Midtown Urban Renewal District is to promote economic development, multimodal
transportation, support innovative infrastructure, promote unified human scale urban design, and
support compatible urban density mixed land uses through infill, increased building density, retail,
housing, and multimodal amenities.
https://midtownbozeman.org/uploads/Documents/Action-Plan-V10.pdf
Appendix B: Existing Plan Summary B4
MUNICIPAL CLIMATE ACTION PLAN (2008)
The Municipal Climate Action Plan establishes a city-operations climate goal of “reducing municipal
greenhouse gas emissions 15% below 2008 levels by 2020.” Similar to the Community Climate Action Plan,
the Municipal Climate Action Plan includes a list of strategies oriented toward mitigating climate impacts
through efficient land use, energy, wastewater, and transportation planning.
https://www.bozeman.net/home/showdocument?id=3140
MUNICIPAL GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS (2012)
The Municipal Greenhouse Gas Emissions is an inventory of transportation, building, water/
wastewater, and waste emission. The inventory concludes with an actionable framework with the
following three priorities for municipal operations: energy efficiency and conservation, high
energy performance standards for all new facilities and infrastructure, and a renewable energy plan.
https://weblink.bozeman.net/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=234375&dbid=0&repo=BOZEMAN
NORTHWESTERN ENERGY ELECTRIC SUPPLY RESOURCE PROCUREMENT PLAN (2019)
In this plan, Bozeman’s electricity provider, NorthWestern Energy (NWE), summarized its current power
supply, future needs and its strategy for procuring additional resources to address supply needs.
Concurrent with Bozeman’s Climate Planning timeline, NWE will be conducting an independent
competitive procurement process to secure up to 400 MW of peaking capacity. NWE analysis
indicates that thermal resources are the lowest-cost resource but notes that renewable resources
and energy storage costs are declining. The procurement process will consider all resources – natural
gas, renewable energy and even “demand side” resources that reduce supply needs through energy
efficiency.
https://www.northwesternenergy.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/about-us/
regulatory/2019-plan/complete-plan.pdf?sfvrsn=2fe04519_7
REDESIGN STREAMLINE 2020
Bozeman’s fare-free transit system, Streamline, launched the Redesign Streamline planning process
in November 2019. The project involves a comprehensive study of Streamline service and
operations, culminating in a Transit Development Plan that details recommendations and
implementation strategies for near-and long-term service changes to meet the growing community
needs.
https://streamlinebus.com/about/redesign-streamline-2020/
TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN (2017)
The Transportation Master Plan recognizes the importance of reducing transportation-related
carbon emissions as part of a triple bottom line approach to evaluating transportation decisions. While
the Plan focuses holistically on Bozeman’s mobility, which includes options for vehicle mobility, the
Transportation Master Plan includes several strategies and recommendations focused on
Transportation Demand Management (TDM) and encourages the use of alternative modes of
transportation, such as biking, walking, and taking transit.
http://weblink.bozeman.net/WebLink8/0/doc/122828/Electronic.aspx
Appendix B: Existing Plan Summary B5
TRIANGLE COMMUNITY PLAN
With population growth and fast-paced land development, the Triangle area of Gallatin County, which is
loosely described as the areas between Bozeman, Four corners, and Belgrade, is experience change. The
Planning Coordination Committee (PCC) developed the Triangle Community Plan to coordinate land use
development patterns, deliver community services, and infrastructure, and protect important
environmental resources, all in a manner that supports community values and vision while responding to
rapid growth pressures.
https://gallatincomt.virtualtownhall.net/planning-community-development/pages/triangle-community-
plan
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE
The Unified Development Code (commonly called the "UDC") is a set of regulations aimed to protect the
public health, safety and general welfare. These regulations recognize and balance the various rights and
responsibilities relating to land ownership, use and development. The UDC is just one chapter of the
Bozeman Municipal Code but it covers a wide range of topics such as setbacks, building height, allowed
uses, landscaping, affordable housing and parking. Some regulations apply city-wide while others are
district-specific.
https://library.municode.com/mt/bozeman/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIICOOR_CH38UNDEC O
https://www.bozeman.net/home/showdocument?id=8932
URBAN FORESTRY MANAGEMENT PLAN (2016)
One of the foundational goals of the Urban Forestry Management Plan is to “develop [an] urban forest
resilient to climate change and invasive pests.” The plan also recognizes the increasing threats associated
with a changing climate and iterates the importance of a healthy urban forest to combat climate change.
Plan strategies include building Bozeman’s urban canopy infrastructure, bolstering maintenance protocol,
and focusing on outreach and education.
https://www.bozeman.net/home/showdocument?id=3621
Appendix C/D: Climate Team Workshop Summaries & Community Forum Summaries C1/D1
APPENDIX C: CLIMATE TEAM WORKSHOP SUMMARIES
APPENDIX D: COMMUNITY FORUM SUMMARIES
Appendices C & D are available online via City of Bozeman documents:
https://weblink.bozeman.net/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=254708&dbid=0&repo=BOZEMAN
For technical assistance, contact the Bozeman
Sustainability Division at (406) 582-2317