Wildlife Management
Montana’s wildlife legacy sets us apart from the rest of the nation. Our open spaces, prairies, mountain ranges, rivers and lakes provide the habitat that has helped sustain this rich legacy for generations.
State Wildlife Management
Managing our state’s wildlife is one of the most important roles of state government. But it takes resources to do it right.
Right now, the majority of wildlife conservation funding that pays for this management is derived from hunting and fishing licenses and the sale of outdoor gear.
Unsustainable Model
Unfortunately, hunting and fishing license sales do not provide adequate resources to manage all of Montana’s wildlife. Resources are too strained to effectively monitor and manage for many non-game species including amphibians, birds of prey, and weasels.
This challenge is compounded by new growing threats including sustained drought, invasive species, wildlife diseases, and fast-growing urban and suburban development. There is a great need to diversify and secure new sources of funding to ensure non-game species don’t slip through the cracks.
Supporting non-game wildlife
Recreational marijuana is a very important new revenue source that diversifies the pot. It contributes to better monitoring and scientific knowledge for many of Montana's overlooked non-game species.
The critical funding source supports a more effective wildlife conservation program that covers a broader range of species.
