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Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission
Trends
- 1Montana Commission Moves to Draft Predator Management Policy▼Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission Moves to Draft Predator Management Policy
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission has moved to draft a formal predator management policy, directing staff to develop guidelines for managing predators such as wolves, mountain lions and bears. The step begins a public process to define how the state balances predator populations with hunting interests, livestock concerns and conservation goals. Specifics of the draft policy and its proposed measures have not yet been detailed.
- 2Montana wildlife commission rejects trap check and bear spray petitions●Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission rejects trap check, bear spray petitions
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission has voted down petitions related to trap checks and bear spray requirements. The petitions had sought changes to trapping regulations and measures encouraging or mandating bear spray use in bear country. The rejection is likely to draw criticism from wildlife advocacy groups that backed the petitions, while trapping and sporting interests may welcome the decision. Details of the commission's reasoning were not immediately available.
- 3Montana Commission Rejects 24-Hour Trap Checks and Bear Spray Mandate▼Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission Rejects 24-Hour Trap Checks, Bear Spray Mandate
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission has voted against proposals requiring trappers to check their traps every 24 hours and mandating that trappers carry bear spray in the field. Supporters of the measures had argued they would reduce harm to captured animals and improve safety in grizzly country, while opponents viewed them as unnecessary burdens on trapping practices.