Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission

The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission has voted to move forward with drafting a statewide predator management policy. The policy would set out how the state handles predators such as wolves, mountain lions and bears, an issue that has long divided ranchers, hunters and conservation groups in Montana. Details of the proposed policy's contents have not yet been released, and public input is expected as the drafting process continues.

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.

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.