HELENA – As elk populations continue to be a concern across the state, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is convening a citizens advisory group to address the future of elk management. The 12-member group will be tasked with developing new and creative ideas and recommendations and helping build new relationships among stakeholders passionate about elk management in Montana.

FWP is seeking people representing a wide variety of interests to find innovative solutions for management issues including:

• Populations that are over objective
• New disease concerns
• Lack of access on private land
• Over-crowding on public land
• Increased participation in outdoor activities

Members must be willing to hear other perspectives and be open to new ideas from landowners and hunters alike. Applicants representing larger interests must be empowered to speak for their group or organization.

Meetings will be virtual. A facilitator will work with the group to maintain objectivity, productivity, and to guide the development process. Interested individuals must be able to actively participate in up to 10 half-day meetings through July 2022. Meetings will be held during the day and evenings, depending upon the availability of the group. If improved technology is needed for an individual to participate, they may travel to one of FWP’s offices and use the equipment there. Mileage and lodging (if necessary) costs associated with travel to and from an FWP office will be reimbursed by FWP.

The first meeting is scheduled for the afternoon of March 22. The group’s recommendations will be presented to the FWP Director’s Office for review and consideration by July 31, 2022.

Applications are available online at https://fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/elk-management-citizen-advisory-group. The application deadline is Feb. 15. Appointments to the advisory group will be made within two weeks of the application deadline. If you have questions, please contact:

• Deb O’Neill, Special Projects Director, doneill@mt.gov, 406-444-3755, or
• Ron Howell, Legislative Liaison, rhowell@mt.gov, 406-444-4040