Alex Hibala, River Guide Alex Hibala


Alex has been a guide in western Montana since 2006. A veteran of several Montana rivers, Alex has guided the Bitterroot, Big Hole, Blackfoot and Missouri rivers in all seasons and conditions.  He has experienced first-hand the effects of warming waters on the cycle of rivers and how this affects fish, wildlife, and the industries that rely on them.

We look forward to his stories as he is praised as having a smart and occasionally witty demeanor, in addition to being a great person with whom to share a day on the water.

Laura Garber, Farmer and Activist Laura Garber


Laura is well-known in the Bitterroot for her organization's contributions to this community.  She founded Homestead Organics Farm when she moved to Hamilton in 1999.  In 2015 she founded Cultivating Connections farm classroom.

When she’s not farming, she is often seen serving our community in many ways, including her facilitation skills and recruiting high school students to deliver “Salads for Seniors” through Meals on Wheels (a Cultivating Connections project).

Barb Lucas, Director of open-ended Expressive Arts Studio Barb Lucas


Barb is a long time resident of the Valley, an expressive arts therapist in private practice, and a co-creator of many things.

She enjoys creating community spaces and bringing out the creative genius in others!

Lara Tomov, Cinematographer & Director of Stories for Action Lara Tomov


Lara is a filmmaker and director of the media brand Stories for Action, which uses the power of storytelling to foster healthy relationships between people and places.  Lara grew up in the Bitterroot Valley.  Now, after ten years living out of state and traveling worldwide, she is thrilled to once again make Montana her home.

One of her current projects, Life in the Land, is a series of films and podcasts from Montanans about the value of community-guided and holistic approaches to the landscape.

Caitlyn Lewis, Education & Event Coordinator, of Families for a Livable Climate Caitlyn Lewis


Caitlyn’s experience in Communication Studies informs her work on projects like Montana Climate Stories, and Climate Conversations.

Caitlyn will be co-leading the Voice Your Climate Story workshop with Lara.