EBS STAFF
Now until March 26, the public can weigh in on a proposed later opening of Porcupine, Buffalo Horn, Taylor Fork and Elkhorn areas in 2025. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has proposed to move the summer opening of the wildlife management areas near Big Sky back one month, from a May 15 to a June 15 opening date to prevent disturbance of the elk calving habitat.
“The area is an important winter and calving habitat for elk, making it particularly sensitive to disruption,” the agency states in the proposal. “The [Wildlife Management Area’s] proximity to Big Sky facilitates high levels of recreation activities, including dog walking, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.”
The four sections make up the Gallatin WMA, 8,611 acres of diverse habitat, according to FWP.
Currently, public visitors can use the land between May 15 and Nov. 30. “Extending the winter closure through June 15 would reduce the potential for recreational disturbance to elk during the calving season,” FWP states in the proposal.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Commission will decide on the proposals on April 17. If approved, the winter season extension will go into effect for 2025.
Those interested in making a public comment can submit online.
