Future of Montana Elk Management- A Conversation with Diverse Interests
HELENA, MT- Montana Outfitters and Guides Association recently hosted a first-of-its-kind discussion, bringing together diverse interests for a conversation on the complex issue of elk management in Montana. The open meeting, “Future of Montana Elk Management” aimed to:
* Hear from stakeholders to better understand perspectives and gain insights into common ground exists and impasses
* Engage in open and respectful dialog among a broad range of diverse interests
* Set a standard for how complex challenges should be addressed going forward
“We recognize the complexity of managing Montana’s elk population. While there are certainly differences of opinion, to come up with realistic solutions we must be able to identify areas where we can work together. This has to be be a priority,” said Mac Minard, Executive Director, Montana Outfitters and Guides Association. “The format was not a debate –but rather a conversation — between knowledgeable people with divergent interests in the how elk should be managed and an opportunity to understand the basis for recommendations that are coming out as part of the public discourse.”
A full video of the discussion can be viewed at https://www.facebook.com/MontanaOutfitterandGuides.
Participants included:
* Montana Stockgrowers
* Montana Farm Bureau
* Property Environmental Research Center
* Backcountry Hunters and Anglers
* Montana Wildlife Federation
* Montana Bow Hunters
* Montana Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife
* Montana Outfitters and Guides Association
Specific recommendations discussed:
• Establishing localized elk working groups
• Expanding hunter education
• Promoting focused damage hunts
• Managing elk where they are not
• Use of shoulder seasons
• Enforcing stricter penalties for trespassing and other bad behaviors by hunters and landowners
