March 18th, 2018
Sharon Rose
Region 2 MTFWP Comment Coordinator
3201 Spurgin Road
Missoula, MT 59804
To Ms. Sharon Rose:
The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers supports the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks and their proposal to acquire two parcels totaling 276 acres in the Fish Creek Wildlife Management Area. This includes the 116-acre Whitehorse parcel and the 160-acre Main-Stem Fish Creek parcel.
The Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers strives to protect large parcels of backcountry fish and wildlife habitat as well as the opportunity for traditional non-motorized hunting and fishing experiences. The primary benefits of acquiring this property are highly aligned with our organization’s values: Protecting forest and riparian corridor that provides vital habitat for wintering elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, and moose; protected wildlife connectivity areas; protecting some of the habitat for bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout; securing 1.2 miles of riparian habitat along Fish Creek; and maintaining the integrity of the Fish Creek WMA.
Our members want to see the proposed parcels purchased by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks so they can be managed for the benefit of fish and wildlife and for public access. It is fitting that these parcels are being purchased largely using funds raised through the purchase of hunting licenses, the sale of guns and ammunition, and from Montana Trout Unlimited. Whether we're just spending a day on the stream or in the woods, are hunting deer, elk, grouse or bear, are stalking trout, or are watching a big bull trout snatch the trout off the end of our line, these acquisitions will allow all users quality outdoors experiences in perpetuity.
Our members include nearly 2,000 Montana hunters, anglers and others who support the mission of ensuring North America's outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting, through education and work on behalf of wild public lands and waters.
Sincerely,
Hannah J. Nikonow, Region 2 Board Member
About Hannah Nikonow
Hannah works as a communications specialist for a bird habitat conservation organization in Missoula. She is eager to follow in the boot tracks of those currently speaking out for the protection of public lands.