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Bill would require trappers to post signs at FWP trailheads to warn public of active traplines
Summary
House Bill 436 would require trappers on Fish, Wildlife & Parks‑administered lands to post department‑approved signs at trailheads or access points when traps or snares are set nearby; proponents said the requirement would reduce dog injuries and public conflict, while opponents warned of trap theft and increased targeting of trappers.
House Bill 436 would require a trapper to post a notice sign at a trailhead on public lands administered by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks if traps or snares are located within 1,000 feet of the trailhead or within 100 feet of a marked public trail, and would require the department to provide a downloadable, printable sign template. The bill also requires trappers to replace an illegible or missing sign within 24 hours of noticing or being informed of the problem.
Sponsor Representative Bob Carter said the bill’s goal is “notifying the public when they're entering an active trapping area,” and that the change is intended to “minimiz[e] social conflict” between trappers and other public‑land users.
Multiple conservation, hunting and public‑safety organizations and…
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