Public can still provide input on mule deer management through FWP's online portal

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is developing a new Statewide Mule Deer Management Plan and recently held public workshops around the state to hear from the public.

FWP still wants to hear from people who care about mule deer management but were unable to attend a workshop. Those folks can go to FWP’s website and leave a comment at https://fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/public-comment-opportunities/mule-deer-feedback. FWP will be taking public feedback through June 27.

The new Statewide Mule Deer Management Plan will reflect public concerns FWP has heard over the past several years, as well as the latest science and research around mule deer numbers and management, according to an FWP news release. The new plan will provide more comprehensive guidance for FWP as it manages mule deer and include strategies and information on management concepts that address hunting harvest, mule deer habitat conservation and herd health, the release stated, adding that public input is vital to ensure the management plan’s strategies reflect public concerns and opinion.

FWP’s goal, the release stated, is to manage for the long-term welfare of Montana’s mule deer resource and provide hunting opportunities that reflect the dynamic nature of deer populations. Through these public workshops, FWP will get a clearer understanding of what the public wants to see in the Statewide Mule Deer Management Plan, which will help the department achieve this goal, the release stated.