MONTANA STATE FISH AND GAME COMMISSION 



and it behooves the sportsmen to see that wildlife interests are considered and 

 protected. In practically every case, dual use of such lands is possible with 

 both interests being amply provided for. 



The Fish and Game Commission is not unmindful of its responsibilities 

 to secure to this and future generations an economic and recreational resource 

 of no small moment. This report will carry a full and detailed account of the 

 activities, finances, programs and recommendations which it is hoped will be 

 of some value in emphasizing the enormity of the task, the responsibilities 

 of all interested in Montana's welfare and the benefits which will accrue with 

 realization and accomplishments of the wildlife program. 



In order to properly administer the affairs of the Department, the Com- 

 mission this year set up five divisions — Administrative, Fisheries, Game Farm, 

 Game Bird and Animal and Enforcement. A budget was made with every 

 consideration given to the importance and duties of each unit. This, it is 

 expected will make for better operation and properly protect the development 

 of one phase of the program at the possible expense of another — the interests 

 of the angler, bird hunter and big game hunter developed on an even keel. 



Following is a review of the activities of each division during the biennial 

 period, with the recommendations to be treated collectively in a separate report 

 to permit more comprehensive appreciation of their needs. 



Administration 



This division embraces the general administrative activities and to this is 

 charged all costs of operations of a general nature not a proper charge against 

 any one of the other divisions. In July, 1935, the office was remodeled in 

 order to better utilize the inadequate space in which the large volume of 

 business is transacted. While some improvement resulted, it is yet far from 

 meeting the requirements. The Fish and Game Commission holds regular 

 monthly meetings in the Department offices when the activities of the various 

 divisions are reviewed and suggestions and recommendations from the em- 

 ployees, and sportsmen are carefully considered. ^ 



To properly protect the Department funds and to put the administration 

 upon a more business-like basis, the Commission, early in 1936, made a ruling 

 requiring that all license dealers be bonded. Some dealers resented this, at 

 first believing it a direct reflection upon their honesty and integrity but when 

 fully explained the majority appreciated the value of this and cooperated by 

 complying with the ruling. 



For the fiscal year ending June 30, 1936, the Department through its 

 dealers sold more fishing and hunting licenses to both residents and non-resi- 

 dents than in any previous year in the history of the Department. However, 

 the marked decrease in the number of trappers licenses sold was responsible 

 for the net revenue being somewhat lower than that of previous years. With 

 more persons enjoying the out-of-doors, its fishing and hunting, there is a 

 heavier demand on fish and game, necessitating a corresponding increase in 

 the activities and costs of operation. The revenue derived from the sale of 

 licenses, fines and confiscations is the limiting factor controlling the opera- 

 tions — the Department being dependent entirely upon this income for its opera- 

 tions. 



