News

The current pandemic continues to impact all of us. During these unprecedented times protecting Montana’s fish, wildlife and outdoor heritage is more difficult than ever. That’s why MWF is one of the only sporting organizations in Montana to consistently act on climate change. It’s clear that climate change will continue to have major impacts on fish and wildlife habitat. Last year, MWF developed a short film, The Last Cast, about the growing impacts of climate change on Montana’s rivers and fisheries, highlighting some of the everyday people that depend on having healthy rivers for their livelihood and quality of life. Coming soon in May, MWF will be releasing the film, asking anglers from across the country to TAKE ACTION on climate change.

• Only use lead-free ammunition, such as steel or copper, when hunting.

• Where possible, practice at established ranges so lead on the landscape is confined to specific, manageable areas.

• Help to educate others on the benefits of hunting with lead-free ammunition by sharing your knowledge and experience.

While these steps may seem simple, the positive effects they will have can not be understated. It is our role to stand up for the wildlife that can’t stand up for itself. Stand up for Montana’s wildlife today by taking the MWF Non-Lead Pledge HERE. Together we can support our wildlife and each other by creating a lead-free Montana.

MWF is fortunate to work with our network of dedicated affiliates. In an effort to better support the work our affiliates do, in 2019 MWF started an affiliate grant program to award funding to our affiliates who are working with conservation-minded landowners on wildlife habitat protection and enhancement.

MWF awarded one of the first of these grants to the Western Bear Foundation (WBF). Due to the increasing presence of grizzly bears near Valier Montana, residents have become increasingly concerned about bear activity near Lake Francis Campground, which is directly adjacent to the town. 

WBF and Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks identified a need for better bear-proof garbage cans at the campground.  In an effort to be proactive, mitigate conflict, and protect wildlife, WBF placed 6 Kodiak Bear Proof Containers at various locations around the campsite. The garbage cans are 96 gallons each and are able to be dumped by sanitation staff without having to leave the vehicle.

Bear proof garbage cans will help prevent grizzly bears from using the campground which is within Valier town limits. Additionally, the visibility of such receptacles will promote bear aware behaviors and actions in the town community. Keeping bears away from town and showing that agencies and organizations are working hard to keep people safe will aid in building tolerance for the grizzly bear population in the area. 

MWF is proud of the work that our affiliates, like WBF, do. We are looking forward to awarding our 2020 grants soon and support more quality work from these conservation stalwarts. We encourage you to also support your local MWF affiliate by becoming a member or donating to them today. If you would like to learn more about MWF’s affiliate program, contact Marcus Strange at mstrange@mtwf.org. 

The Montana Wildlife Federation has long been blessed with an amazing network of affiliate partners. From the dark timbered mountains to the breaky badlands, in local communities statewide, our affiliates are working tirelessly to protect and enhance public access, habitat, and wildlife. It is safe to say that Montana would look drastically different without them.

We are so appreciative of the help we’re receiving during this difficult time. At this time, while we hope that you will continue to support us, we also hope that you consider supporting our affiliates in your local communities. Like so many others, our affiliates are canceling crucial fundraising events that enable them to do the work that benefits their local communities. These are the groups who are pulling fences, teaching hunters education, and speaking up for wildlife, habitat, and access during the legislature. The groups need your support.

MWF is mindful of those around us and the struggles they are facing. Our thoughts are with those in our state and our world who are being adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We encourage everyone who supports us to also support our partners who make our conservation efforts possible and better your community. Do what you can, give where you can. We’re all in this together.

Montanans are being encouraged to stay home as much as possible and for good reason. As we work to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus, it’s important to practice social distancing and stay at home as much as possible.  Eventually, life will return to normal. 

For Montana hunters, that will hopefully include a special hunt this fall for deer or elk. The thought of time spent with family and friends pursuing that big buck or bull is pretty enticing right now. Every year we anticipate the fall and hunting season; this year should be no different. 

Hunters have until April 1 this year to apply for special deer and elk permits. While it’s easy to sometimes let these applications go until the last minute, this year it’s imperative that hunters be proactive in applying early. The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks website can get overwhelmed under the best of circumstances and with many state employees working from home, there are sure to be some unseen hurdles.

Take the time to look over the hunting regulations, and go to www.fwp.mt.gov to fill out the applications for special permits. Think back to those areas that are most important for those hunting memories and try for those districts. We may be inside now, but when the fall comes, we’ll be ready to get outside and enjoy all that Montana has to offer.