The House Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committee recently advanced two controversial bills aimed at reducing Montana’s wolf population. House Bill 222 initially proposed an open season for wolf hunting until numbers reached 600, but this was later amended. Another proposal, House Bill 176, seeks to eliminate bag limits until population numbers drop by half. The state’s wolf figures currently stand at around 1,100 animals, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Proponents of these bills argue that previous methods, including night hunting, bait, and snaring, have not effectively reduced wolf numbers. They contend the Montana Legislature needs to provide clearer guidance to the Fish and Wildlife Commission. However, opponents argue that the bills are unscientific and politicize wildlife management, potentially tarnishing Montana’s reputation.
Testimonies extended into the evening, with support from organizations like the Rocky Mountain Stockgrowers Association and Montana Trappers Association. Justin Webb of the Foundation for Wildlife Management highlighted that neighboring states rely on longer seasons and varied hunting methods to manage wolves. “Idaho has year-round hunting season, no quotas, far more liberal trapping and snaring seasons,” Webb stated.
Opponents argue that such measures could harm the long-term viability of Montana’s wolf populations. Eric Clewis of Defenders of Wildlife criticized HB 176 as “legislative overreach” that disrupts science-driven wildlife management. Cara McGary, a wildlife-watching business owner near Yellowstone, warned that removing hunting quotas could endanger wolves vital to tourism and the local economy.
Following discussions with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, HB 222’s target population was adjusted to 650 wolves, allowing for seasonal closures during denning. Similarly, HB 176’s population target increased to 550 wolves. These measures echo past legislation from 2021, which extended trapping seasons and introduced controversial hunting incentives. Critics argue that such laws could lead to federal intervention in wolf management, sparking legal challenges over the public trust doctrine in state wildlife management. Environmental groups have already sued the USFWS over wolf protection decisions, citing flawed population models.
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