The elk population within the Elkhorn Mountains of central Montana is one of the most sought after bull elk hunting opportunities in Montana. This area has been impacted by a mountain pine beetle (MPB) epidemic with tree mortality approaching 90 percent over much of the affected area. MPB has affected low elevation ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) stands as well as higher elevation lodgepole (Pinus contorta) pine forests, and the effects of MPB on elk habitat and movements are unknown.
In collaboration with the Elkhorn Working Group, Helena National Forest, Montana State University, and Montana Department of Military Affairs, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks initiated a study to evaluate the impact of MPB infestation on elk habitat and movement in the Elkhorn Mountains. This project will build from a long-term study conducted by FWP and the Helena National Forest from 1982-1992 and will provide wildlife and land managers a better understanding of the impacts of the MPB outbreak on elk nutrition and security habitat. Findings from this study will be relevant across other areas of Montana and the western US that are experiencing MPB epidemics.
Financial support for this project has been provided by:
Cinnabar Foundation
Montana Department of Military Affairs
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
Helena National Forest
Funding was also provided by revenues from the sale of Montana hunting and fishing licenses and matching Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration grants to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
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Introduction & Background