Common loons are a species of concern in Montana. They primarily breed in the northwest corner of the state. The first management plan for common loons was completed in 1990. Since then several research projects across the country and in Montana were completed to help improve conservation and management strategies.

The Conservation Plan below was prepared in cooperation with the Montana Common Loon Working Group to incorporate past and current research and provide more informed conservation and management objectives. The plan includes chapters on population management, habitat management, disturbance, research, information and education, and coordination. The plan also includes numerous appendices that will assist biologists and managers with on the ground conservation and management of common loons.

Conservation Plan for the Common Loon in Montana
Full Plan	pp. 1–122	4.6 MB
Plan without Appendices	pp. 1-41	641 KB
Appendix A: Lake/Territory List with Classification and Area Coordinators	pp. 42-53	236 KB
Appendix B: Best Management Practices for Common Loon Habitat	pp. 54-63	340 KB
Appendix C: Lake/Site Specific Common Loon Management Plan	pp. 64-80	284 MB
Appendix D: Band Recoveries and Observations	pp. 81-83	248 KB
Appendix E: Common Loon Surveys	pp. 84-93	608 KB
Appendix F: The Use of Signs: An Essential Common Loon Management Tool	pp. 94-99	342 KB
Appendix G: The Use of Artificial Nest Platforms	pp. 100-107	418 KB
Appendix H: Information and Education	pp. 108-116	1.3 MB
Appendix I: Handling of Live Common Loons and Specimens	pp. 117-119	86 KB
Appendix J: Loon Ranger Training and Responsibilities	pp. 120-122	96 KB