Guiding principles for mule deer management plan released for public comment

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is looking for public feedback on work from a citizen advisory council tasked with developing guiding principles for developing a new Mule Deer Management Plan.

"We know how concerned people are with mule deer numbers across the state," said FWP Director Dustin Temple. "Our focus is developing a new plan that will guide our efforts to manage herds well into the future. The council's work is a critical first step for our planning process."

In early 2024, FWP solicited applications from Montana citizens to serve on the Mule Deer Citizen Advisory Council (MDCAC). Composed of 14 members, the MDCAC was selected to develop guiding principles that would inform the development of a new statewide Mule Deer Management Plan.

Montana mule deer populations can change from year to year due to a variety of factors that influence survival and recruitment. Population trends from spring surveys across much of Montana were mixed this year, with some areas showing improved herd growth and some areas with lower recruitment. Concerns about specific factors outlined by the MDCAC include disease (e.g., chronic wasting disease), habitat quality and availability, effects of weather and climate, predation, and hunting pressure.

The MDCAC met three times this spring to develop mule deer management guiding principles. With attention to tradeoffs among them, the guiding principles include but are not limited to:

• Increasing mule deer populations

• Using best available science to inform management decision

• Managing chronic wasting disease

• Improving the quality of the hunting experience

Improving landowner relationships

• Maximizing opportunity for public input of all stakeholders in plan development, including hunters, landowners and nonhunting wildlife enthusiasts

Informed by the guiding principles proposed by the MDCAC, FWP will develop a mule deer statewide management plan that provides management flexibility. Currently, FWP is seeking further public comment on the guiding principles recommended by the MDCAC. The Problem Statement and Guiding Principles can be viewed at fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission-councils-committees/mule-deer-citizens-advisory-committee.

The public comment period is open for 30 days beginning July 16. Public comment can be submitted through Aug. 15. The planning process will continue with the additional insights offered by the public in their review of the MDCAC's guiding principles. Additional opportunities for public engagement during plan development will be publicized by FWP as available. Comments can be submitted online at fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission-councils-committees/mule-deer-citizens-advisory-committee or mailed to FWP Wildlife Division, P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620-0701.