Bozeman and Billings, MT – Good luck to all hunters this fall hunting season. With general rifle season approaching, the Forest Service hopes you have a good hunt and offers some tips and reminders in order to protect your natural resources and make your visit more enjoyable.
Pick up a Motor Vehicle Use Map – Motorized Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs) outline designated road and trail systems and are free at any of the Custer Gallatin Forest Ranger District Offices or online at www.fs.usda.gov/custergallatin . Remember if there is no numbered route marker than the road or trail is closed. In addition there are a few roads and trail closures that go into effect during the spring and fall seasons so please check the MVUM or with your local Ranger District Office before heading out.
Licensing – Remember that Montana state law requires drivers and vehicles to be licensed and “street legal” when on numbered Forest Service roads. Off highway vehicles on Forest Service trails must have a state “OHV sticker” and anyone under the age of 18 must wear a helmet if riding a motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or utility terrain vehicle (UTV). Seat belts must be worn while riding in a UTV.
Drones and game cameras – The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) or drones for hunting are prohibited on National Forest System lands. Game cameras are not allowed per Montana law.
Food Storage – Food storage requirements are in place for the Beartooth, Yellowstone, Gardiner, Bozeman and Hebgen Lake Ranger Districts. Remember to store all attractants in 1) a closed, solid-sided vehicle or horse trailer, 2) in bear-resistant containers certified by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC), or 3) hung 10 feet off the ground and four feet out from any tree or support pole. Between 100 yards and one-half mile from your camp, you must hang or store your animal carcass just like other items that can attract bears. You can leave a carcass on the ground if it’s at least one-half mile from camping areas and at least 200 yards from a trail. Storing carcasses in a hard-sided horse trailer 100 yards away is okay, too.
Caches – Remember to remove tree stands and any equipment or cache when you leave.
Noxious weeds –Ensure you’re bringing only certified weed free feed onto public lands. To qualify, your hay bales must be tagged. Wash your vehicles thoroughly before you head off on your hunting trip.
Finally, in Montana, you can report any violations you may see to 1-800-TIP-MONT or in South Dakota, call 1-888-OVERBAG. For more information please contact any Custer Gallatin National Forest office or visit us online.
