Montana Sen. Mike Phillips’ (D-Bozeman) legislation, Senate Bill 185, which banned hunting and trapping of wolves in the management zones near Yellowstone National Park, was tabled in the Senate Fish and Game Committee. While the bill is tabled, it does not mean it is completely dead yet. A member still has until April 1 to potentially move the bill out of committee.
SB 185 sets a bad precedent by removing Montana’s wildlife experts from decision making, and empowering politicians to set seasons and bag limits according to what they think will garner more votes. Montana FWP determines wolf seasons to keep population numbers in balance with other wildlife, to protect livestock and maintain public safety. SB 185 prevents the agency from accomplishing this important mission.
“Wolves should be managed by Montana’s wildlife experts to protect other wildlife, livestock and most importantly public safety” said Luke Houghton associate director of state services for Sportsmen’s Alliance.
About the Sportsmen’s Alliance: The Sportsmen’s Alliance protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research. Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible. Stay connected to Sportsmen’s Alliance: Online, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.