FWP seeks comments on wolf hunting extension

The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Commission is seeking comments on whether to extend the wolf hunting season and to allow hunters to participate in wolf depredation removals.

The wolf hunting season is currently set to end on Dec. 31. Montana's statewide harvest quota is 220 wolves, and so far 76 have been taken by hunters.

If the season extension is approved, the current wolf hunting season would run through Jan. 31, 2012, or until the specific wolf management unit quotas are met, whichever is first.

The wolf depredation removal proposal would go into effect in 2012 and 2013. Officials say the use of hunters could enhance depredation response times, and livestock producers would be able to identify hunters authorized to participate.

In exchange, livestock producers would be expected to allow a reasonable amount of public wolf hunting access during the wolf hunting season.

All lethal removals by livestock producers, the U.S. Wildlife Services or hunters would be consistent with FWP rules and regulations.

Comments can be submitted through 5 p.m., Nov. 28. For more information or to comment online, visit online at fwp.mt.gov. Click "Hunting." Comments can be sent by mail to: FWP Wildlife Bureau, Attn: Public Comment, P.O. Box 200701, Helena MT 59620-0701.