MONTANA STATE PISH AND GAME COMMISSION 



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BEAR 



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The bear is considered by many as one of our most valued game animals 

 and each year is gaining in favor. The Commission, in August, 1935, declared 

 a closed season on bear from May 15 to October 14, giving the first protec- 

 tion it ever had. The interest being shown by both residents and non-residents 

 assures this game species all possible protection. 



Moose. 



The present outlook for the moose in Montana is encouraging with notice- 

 able increases being noted in the Gallatin, Slough creek and Rock creek (Gran- 

 ite county) areas. While there are some who believe an open season under the 

 permit system would not be harmful, the Commission feels it necessary to give 

 this highly prized animal protection for some time yet. It is pointed out that 

 no one is getting any benefit from them under the prolonged closed season, 

 but the fact remains that they have a high esthetic value to the residents 

 and tourists. 



Enforcement Division. 

 A squad of 28 deputy game wardens is employed to patrol the state. The 

 functions of this division have undergone radical changes. While the chief 

 function remains that of enforcement of the fish and game laws, it now is 

 required that "Deputies" serve as agents of the Commission. To properly 

 prosecute the duties of the office requires knowledge of fish and game laws, 

 general law, court procedure, wildlife, people and of their district. 



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In the primitive, rug'g'ed fastness of the South Fork of the Flathead, this mother 

 black bear and her two cubs, pause for a moment before dipping- their noses into 



the cool stream for a drink. 



