FOREWORD 



Since the publication of the previous biennial report, the demands 

 on our wildlife resources have continued to increase. The recreational 

 benefits which hunting and fishing afford resident and non-resident 

 citizens become increasingly important as the nation develops. In addi- 

 tion to these great benefits, many stable businesses of considerable 

 economic importance derive their entire or partial income from the 

 presence of wildlife. 



Still more important, however, wildlife enters the broad picture of 

 conservation upon which the future prosperity of the state and the nation 

 depends. Wildlife is but one of many natural resources which must be 

 considered in a wise use program. Careful multiple-use management of 

 the land is necessary to preserve essential soil and water resources. 

 Intelligent management policies are imperative for each separate natural 

 resource so that none will suffer at the expense of another. 



This then obligates the Montana Fish and Game Commission to 

 administer wildlife populations according to long-range, biological con- 

 cepts in close accord with the responsibilies of many agencies. Recog- 

 nizing the need for the perpetuation of satisfactory environment for 

 wildlife is paramount. This calls for a program of efficiency which 

 considers the needs and desires of the people coupled with the best 

 possible use of every available source of information. 



This report of the Montana Fish and Game Commission biennium 

 portrays a picture of progress and invites consideration for future plans 

 necessary to provide hunting and fishing for generations to come. 



CONTENTS 



Page 



Administration 5 



Big Game 7 



Financial Statements 28 



Fisheries 11 



Fur-Bearing Animals 19 



Future 23 



Game Birds 17 



Law Enforcement 15 



Legislative Recommendation 22 



Personnel 27 



Predator Control 20 



Public Information 22 



Statistics 34 



Waterfowl 21 



