FWP DECISION 



Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks hereby issues a decision to adopt the Preferred 

 Alternative. This decision includes a commitment to making certain budgeting and 

 management decisions, to develop and implement new program initiatives, and to seek 

 necessary approval of other agencies. 



This decision meets with FWT's grizzly bear management objective to maintain grizzly 

 bear populations that are compatible with the public's outdoor recreational desires while 

 minimizing human-bear contlicts and livestock depredation. The decision also meets 

 with the objectives set forth in the FEIS to set appropriate gnzzly bear management 

 objectives for Montana's biologically suitable and socially acceptable habitats; improve 

 FWP's ability to monitor grizzly bear populations and determine their status, composition 

 and trend; improve regulation of the annual harv'est should this occur; improve public 

 understanding of gnzzly bear biology, habitat requirements and management; and to 

 develop policies and proactive program to deal with human-bear confrontations and 

 livestock depredation. 



The ultimate benefit of the decision is the long-term perpetuation of viable, healthy 

 grizzly bear populations that can provide aesthetic and recreational benefits to Montanans 

 and visitors to our state. 



Concurred in by FWP Commission by action at its November 14, 2002, meeting. 



M. Jeffp^g^y 7 Date 



Director 



