loss in value of an affected resource that cannot be restored as a result of the proposed action or preferred 

 alternative. Such commitments include expenditure of funds, loss of production or restrictions on 

 resource use. 



With few exceptions, the programs recommended in this document should not result in any irretrievable 

 commitment of resources. If expansion of bears proves untenable in some areas, FWP has demonstrated 

 the ability to remove bears. Likewise, habitat programs and access management can be reversed or 

 revised if needed. The level of recommended mortality will not result in any irretrievable commitment of 

 the grizzly bear resource and should allow it to flourish. Because these levels of removal can be regulated 

 or eliminated on an annual basis, or even short time basis (should data indicate that to be prudent), the 

 management program poses no threat to the species, and should benefit it. 



Conversely, because the grizzly bear and other Montana wildlife serve as a major component of our 

 quality of life in Montana and this is attracting new residents and an expanding human population, the 

 state is seeing some additional commitment of resources. Subdivisions, energy development, and other 

 "land development" programs are slowly but steadily altering grizzly habitat. While Montana officials 

 can moderate this loss to a degree by allowing the bear population to expand into currently unoccupied 

 habitats and by managing occupied habitats to meet their needs, we as a people will ultimately have to 

 forego some things to allow grizzlies to survive at viable levels. These issues will be decided by the 

 citizens of Montana and the nation through the appropriate political and social processes. 



Finallv, grizzly bears are large and potentially dangerous animals. By their presence, they pose some risk 

 to the human inhabitants of the state and to visitors. Current information shows that this risk is very real, 

 but at a surprisingly low level. Considering all of the people and activities that currently occur in grizzly 

 habitat, and how few injuries or deaths occur, the level of risk is low. In addition, the programs outlined 

 in this plan should allow for management and further minimization of the risks of living with grizzlies. 



No environment is totally risk free for people. Through education, understanding, and science-based 

 wildlife management, we the people of Montana and this nation can minimize the risks of injury and/or 

 death from grizzlies. 



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