The public comment period is underway through December 23. If Flathead Reservation outdoor recreation is in your wheelhouse, you might want to take a look.

The guess here is that many Montanans would applaud the higher non-resident fees. But the in-state resident increases are pretty significant, too. With that said, here is some of what is on the table.

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes announced the availability of the March 1, 2022 to February 28, 2023 Flathead Indian Reservation Joint Tribal/State Fishing and Bird Hunting and Recreation Regulations and proposed changes. Comments from the public are welcome on these draft regulations.

Due to the pandemic, an in-person hearing will not take place.  Public comment will be accepted via letter or email. Proposed changes to fishing license and camping fees include:

Camping Stamp 18 and Older: For all categories of residences – increase camping stamp cost from $20 to $100.

Residents of the Reservation: Increase annual Conservation License from $20 to $40, increase Disabled License from $17 to $37.

Non-Residents of the Reservation: Increase annual Conservation License for both age categories from $23 to $100, increase 3-Day Conservation License from $19 to $80, increase 3-Day Combined Conservation/Fishing License to $105, increase the Disabled License from $17 to $100.

Non-Residents of the State of Montana:  Increase annual Conservation License for both age categories from $26 to $100, increase 3-Day Conservation License from $19 to $80, increase 1-Day Combined Conservation /Fishing License to $80, increase 3-Day Conservation/Fishing License to $146, increase Disabled License from $17 to $100.

There are also proposals pertaining to bird hunting and "Safe Harbor Marsh" areas. More details on those available here.

CSKT asks that all comments be submitted via letter or email, no later than December 23rd.  Public comments can be summited by letter to P.O. Box 278, Pablo, MT 59855 or via email to Amanda Bourdon, DFWRC Permit Agent at Amanda.bourdon@cskt.org or Stephanie Gillin, DFWRC Information & Education Program Manager at Stephanie.gillin@cskt.org. Written comments may also be sent to the Flathead Indian Reservation Fish and Wildlife Advisory Board Chairman, 406 6th Avenue East, Polson, Montana, 59860.

 

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