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FWP warns 30-day pre-notice for predator releases would be unworkable; producers push for transparency
Summary
At a hearing on HB 648, ranchers and county commissioners urged a requirement that Fish, Wildlife and Parks notify local officials before releasing or relocating predators; FWP opposed the bill as written, saying a 30-day pre-notice requirement is logistically infeasible and could interfere with translocations and animal welfare.
House Bill 648 would require Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) to provide written and verbal notice to county commissioners, sheriffs and tribal governments at least 30 days before the department releases or relocates predatory animals into a county or tribal jurisdiction. The sponsor, Brandon Lear, said the measure is intended to protect producers and give local officials a voice in relocations.
Supporters: Farmers, ranchers and county officials testified they need notice when FWP relocates predators so they can take precautionary steps. Weibo County Commissioner Darren Misky described recent local depredation and urged the committee to provide producers more transparency.
FWP opposition: Kwanten Kujala, Chief of Conservation Policy for FWP, urged a "do not pass as written" position. Kujala told the committee that, read literally, the bill would prohibit FWP from releasing or relocating a wolf, mountain lion, black bear or grizzly within a county without 30 days’ prior notice. He said the requirement could force the department to hold large predators in traps for extended periods and would be inconsistent with the department's field practices and animal-welfare considerations. Kujala also noted legal complications with grizzly bears, where the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service maintains oversight for listed-species decisions.
Negotiations and possible amendments: Some agricultural groups said they were optimistic negotiations could narrow the bill. Representatives of the Montana Stock Growers Association suggested an amendment that would require only 24-hour notice for grizzly releases to preapproved FWP commission sites while retaining longer notice for other predators. FWP staff and conservation groups said changing the bill to require notice after release rather than before would remove the department’s primary logistical objection.
Outcome: The committee closed the hearing on HB 648 after testimony; no committee vote was recorded in the hearing transcript. The transcript records robust discussion and indicates stakeholders plan to continue negotiating potential amendments before further action.
