FWP COMMISSION TO MEET IN HELENA

Montana’s Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission will meet Nov. 8 in Helena to consider recommendations from a citizen working group aimed at lowering the risk of livestock contracting a bacterial disease from elk in southwestern Montana.

The meeting, set to begin at 8:30 a.m., will be held at FWP’s Montana Wild Education Center, 2668 Broadwater.

The recommendations are a part of the Elk-Brucellosis Working Group's efforts to develop objectives and alternatives for elk management in areas with brucellosis, a bacterial disease that can result in miscarriages in some pregnant animals, including domestic cattle, and bison and elk.

Commissioners also will consider a proposed Montana State Parks fee rule; the City of Helena's latest urban deer management proposal; boating regulations proposed for Echo Lake near Big Fork and on three lakes in the Clearwater River drainage northeast of Missoula; and take final action on a regulation adjustment for the upcoming wolf trapping season.

On land matters, commissioners will be asked to approve an acquisition of about 31 acres adjacent to the Dome Mountain Wildlife Management Area near Gardiner; and to initially endorse the potential acquisition of two land donations that could become fishing access sites.

Updates on tap include fishing regulation changes within Red Rocks Lakes National Wildlife Refuge near Lima and the progress of a statewide fisheries management plan.

For the full agenda and additional information, visit FWP's website at fwp.mt.gov. Click "For Commission Information."

FWP ensures its meetings are fully accessible to individuals with special needs. To request arrangements call FWP at 406-444-3186.