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Lawmakers hear proposal to charge fees for swan and crane hunting; conservation groups back revenue use for wetlands
Summary
Representative Gary Perry told the Senate Fish and Game Committee HB 146 would allow fees for swan and crane hunting permits and licenses, with proponents saying revenue would go to migratory gamebird programs and wetlands conservation; Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff described current license processes and season dates.
Representative Gary Perry told the Senate Fish and Game Committee that House Bill 146 would authorize license or permit fees for hunting swans and cranes in Montana, aligning Montana with neighboring states that already collect such fees. Perry said if permits are used, nonresident permits would pay a higher fee while residents would pay a smaller fee; he described permits and a separate regular‑hunting fee structure during his presentation.
Proponents told the committee they supported the bill as a modest revenue source directed to migratory gamebird programs and wetland conservation. Peter Dudley of Montana Audubon said the funds would "help promote the protection, conservation, and development of wetlands in Montana," citing important bird areas in the Prairie Pothole region, Phillips, Blaine and Valley counties and the High Line. Tom Jacobson of the Montana Wildlife Federation said collecting fees would fund management of the hunted bird populations and urged a do‑pass recommendation.
Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff provided informational answers about seasons and licensing. Quentin Kudjula said Sandhill Crane seasons vary by flyway (Pacific Flyway and Central Flyway dates were given) and that swan seasons are limited in some areas (Freezeout Lake area was identified). He confirmed that, under current practice, applicants enter drawings for limited permits and that successful applicants have not been charged license fees in the processes described; for example, Kudjula said there are 500 swan licenses in each flyway that are distributed through an application and drawing process.
Committee members asked whether the proposed fees would be imposed on activities already occurring legally; staff and the sponsor said licensing is already in practice and HB 146 would ensure the state collects revenue to support habitat and migratory bird work. The committee closed the hearing on HB 146 with no final vote recorded in this session.
