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Year‑round hunt proposal draws sharp opposition over Yellowstone and tourism impacts
Summary
HB222 would authorize a year‑round unlimited quota when the wolf population is above a threshold (sponsor used 600) to accelerate reductions. Supporters argued the measure is needed to achieve statutory objectives; opponents — including tribal leaders, conservation groups and tourism operators — warned it would disproportionately affect transboundary Yellowstone packs and damage winter tourism.
Representative Lucas Schubert sponsored House Bill 222, a proposal to create a year‑round unlimited wolf hunt when statewide population exceeds 600. Schubert told the committee he drafted the bill to give FWP and the legislature an ability to reduce numbers more aggressively and said Montana’s wolf population (testimony cited ~1,100) has not declined quickly enough under existing season structures.
Proponents reiterated arguments heard in earlier hearings: regional quotas and litigation have limited harvest opportunity, and a year‑round or…
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