Public meeting in Libby over deer hunting regulations

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hosting a public meeting in Libby today to discuss deer populations and potential future management strategies for hunting seasons in northwest Montana.

The third in the series, the meeting will take place at the K.W. Maki Theatre at 724 Louisiana Avenue at 7 p.m.

FWP Region 1 staff are hoping to engage the public in an open discussion about the future direction for deer hunting after back-to-back harsh winters impacted fawn recruitment and a low hunter harvest this fall.

The meetings are not formal public hearings and will feature informational presentations on historical and current white-tailed and mule deer populations followed by discussion.

“We are hoping to engage the public and talk about the current state of deer herds across northwest Montana,” said Neil Anderson, FWP Region 1 wildlife manager. “We have heard some concerns from sportsmen about deer populations. These meetings will help FWP collaborate with the public and better understand their needs and expectations.”

Deer populations have historically followed up and down cycles depending on several factors, including the severity of winter. Management actions have traditionally attempted to respond to these cyclical changes and sportsmen’s concerns.

The final meeting in the series of four will be held Thursday, Jan. 17 in Eureka at Glacier Bank, 222 Dewey Avenue, in conjunction with Tobacco Valley Rod and Gun Club.

For more information, contact FWP Region 1 Information and Education Program Manager Dillon Tabish at (406) 751-4564.