Hull Private Pond License Review FWP-CEA-FSH-R3-24-045

Jun 25, 2024 2:26 PM

A private landowner is applying for a Private Fish Pond License and proposes to stock Rainbow Trout in an unnamed private pond. The pond is 0.34-surface acres, constructed by excavation, and located off East River Road, near the small communities of Pine Creek and Pray, in Park County, MT. The pond is located approximately 0.1 mile (100 yards) east of Elbow Creek, which is a tributary to the Yellowstone River. Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout, and Mountain Whitefish have been documented in lower Elbow Creek and in the Yellowstone River. The pond has no inlet or outlet. The pond is filled via spigot and hose, which is fed by a groundwater well located at the site. The pond is filled manually by the landowner. There is no outlet from the pond. If water were to crest the pond edges, it would flow into adjacent fields before reaching Elbow Creek.

Risk of escapement is minimal. Fish that do escape the pond will be stranded on dry ground with no chance of reaching state waters. Rainbow Trout have been documents in lower Elbow Creek and are present in the Yellowstone River. The Rainbow Trout could be removed from the pond via chemical treatments or through senescence.

The project is sponsored by the private landowner and the license would be active for a period of 10-years from the year of issuance (2024). The license can be renewed for additional 10-year intervals at the end of each term and the license is transferable.