Want to Hunt Grizzlies in Montana? “Tough Luck” Says Feds

In a highly anticipated move, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) officially turned down petitions from Montana and Wyoming to remove grizzly bears from the endangered species list.

It's a heated topic, but the USFWS still considers the bears necessary to remain listed under the Endangered Species Act. They have also proposed a new long-term recovery strategy for the grizzly bears.

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The official press release from USFWS is HERE.

The new long-term plan from USFWS aims to manage grizzly bears collectively rather than in separate ecosystems. According to USFWS, there are six identified grizzly bear recovery areas spanning across Oregon, Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming.

Grizzly bears are soon to be introduced into Washington State, adding a total of seven ecosystems.

The Original Plan is Gone...

The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem grizzly plan originally had a set goal of 500 bears. Currently, the population is at least 726, but recent models have put that number closer to 1,000.  

Related Content about the issue in the early stages... HERE

Both our Montana Governor and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) had some strong opinions. They condemned the whole situation brought on by the Biden administration, saying...

"The full recovery of the grizzly bear across the Rocky Mountain region should be acknowledged and celebrated – period. It’s time for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to catch up with the science, follow the law, and return management of grizzlies to the states, where it belongs. We look forward to working with the incoming Trump administration to explore a new path forward.” - Governor Greg Gianforte

The issue is far from over. The states will continue to push for control over their own management plans, especially with the new administration about to take over.

If YOU would like YOUR VOICE to be heard, the USFWS welcomes public comment on the proposal over the next 60 days. You can find out more on that HERE.

Credit: USFWS , USGS , Montana.gov, Outdoorlife