FWP seeks comments on proposed habitat program on Fleecer Mountain WMA

DIVIDE – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff are seeking public comments on a draft environmental assessment for a proposed nine-year habitat management program on Fleecer Mountain Wildlife Management Area.

The comprehensive program is designed to improve range conditions on the WMA for wintering elk and other wildlife species. Specific actions include renewing an exchange-of-use agreement and an exchange-for-services agreement with local ranchers and incorporating controlled burning as needed on smooth brome fields on the WMA. The proposed plan would extend from May 2023 through October 2031.

Fleecer Mountain WMA provides habitat for a variety of wildlife throughout the year. The WMA is near the Big Hole River just north of Divide, about 20 miles south of Butte.

A draft environmental assessment on the proposed plan has been published online at go.usa.gov/xJEed. Comments on the draft are due by 5 p.m. on July 1 and can be submitted by email to vboccadori@mt.gov with “Fleecer Grazing” in the subject line or by mail to:

            FWP Butte Area Resource Office

            1820 Meadowlark Lane

            Butte, MT 59701