| HELENA – The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission is set to meet on Aug. 21 starting at 8:30 a.m. at Montana Wild in Helena. Along with the 2025/2026 Furbearer and Wolf Trapping and Hunting Regulations and several habitat and access proposals, FWP is asking the Commission to approve a variety of other proposals as well. The Commission will consider the following: Future Fisheries Improvement Program projects for the summer of 2025 funding period. The 17 projects recommended for approval would improve fish habitat around the state. Selection of organizations to auction 2026 moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, mule deer, elk, antelope and swan licenses. This is the annual decision by the Commission on which groups to award these licenses for auction. The money generated by these auctions goes to FWP for management of the species. A temporary closure of the Blackfoot River adjacent to Milltown State Park near Missoula. This proposal would close the river in this section so BNSF Railway can safely repair the railroad bridge in the area. The closure is estimated to be four months long. Lease agreement to continue to manage Newlan Creek Reservoir Fishing Access Site (FAS) near White Sulphur Springs. This 25-year, no-cost lease extension would allow FWP to continue to manage the FAS at Newlan Creek Reservoir. Lease agreement to continue management of the Fresno Tailwater FAS near Havre. This no-cost lease agreement between FWP and the Bureau of Reclamation would allow for the continued FWP management of the FAS. Lease agreements with Ravalli County for Whittecar Shooting Range near Hamilton. The two lease agreements proposed would allow for the continued operation of the 25-acre shooting range along with a 5-acre range for Ravalli County law enforcement. Approval of the 2026 Nongame Wildlife Account Annual Workplan. This workplan directs work for FWP’s nongame wildlife program for the 2026 year. This work includes a variety of research projects, communication and outreach, and work to ensure continued state management of nongame wildlife. All of these items are available for public comment through Aug. 4. Commissioners may propose amendments to any proposals on the agenda and will make the final decision on all proposals at the Aug. 21 meeting. Comments on FWP proposals can be submitted by going to the Commission website and clicking on the Aug. 21 meeting. Comments will also be taken in person at Montana WILD or any FWP Regional Office during the meeting and virtually during the meeting from those who register. Registration for those who wish to participate virtually will begin approximately two weeks prior to the meeting. |
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