Warm Winter, Funny Names: Missoula Brings Back Snowplow Contest

Normally, when it’s mid-January in Western Montana, we are thinking about skiing, sledding, and trying to keep our cars on snow-covered roads.  

This year has been just a bit different. These days, we are thinking more about golfing and planting gardens, things we don’t normally think about until April or May.  

READ MORE: Missoula Golf Course Opens in January Thanks to Unusual Montana Warmth

Regardless of the weather, the city of Missoula is holding its Second Annual Snowplow Naming Contest. Last year’s winning names were great: "The Big Leplowski," "Scoop Dogg," and "Darth Blader." 

Why This January Feels More Like Spring in Western Montana

Submissions are open now through February 2. The city staff will narrow the submissions down to 12 finalists, and then voting will be open to the public on February 4.  

READ MORE: Old Farmer’s Almanac Predicts Later Frost Dates for Parts of Montana

Now it’s your chance to throw your ideas into the mix. I know, thinking about snow-covered roads isn’t easy right now, but maybe this is when some of the best inspirations will come from. “The Christmas Song” and “Let It Snow” were both written in the summer. So why not name the snowplows when we are having some record-breaking heat in January? 

via GIPHY

Rules for Submitting a Snowplow Name

The city won’t be considering names that are political, trademarked, inappropriate, or offensive.  

I am a fan of clever and funny names, but it would also be cool to see some rock-and-roll- themed names to choose from this year.  

There is still a lot of winter left, and we may be seeing these plows on the streets before you know it.