agencies in lieu of taxes for certain lands held for wildlife management 

 purposes. Authority should be granted the Commission to kill any game 

 species after proper investigation reveals the animals to be a menace 

 to human life and property. 



FUTURE 



Demands on our wildlife resources have increased tremendously in 

 recent years and likewise so have most activities of the department. 

 The demands for wildlife cannot be accomplished, however, by merely 

 increasing the activities that have been adequate in the past. Trial and 

 error methods of short-time programs will not do the job when it is 

 realized that the most efficient programs are barely holding their own. 

 Furnishing everyone with as much fish and game as was provided when 

 only a fraction of present-day sportsmen were afield seems to be im- 

 possible from both the biological and economic standpoint. 



No longer is it necessary to rely upon personnel only casually 

 acquainted with fish and game matters. Trained and competent wildlife 

 specialists will allow the removal of guesswork from fish and game 

 management. Their duties will be directed toward determining how to 

 furnish more sport for more people. 



Game and fish management in Montana will be based on the con- 

 ception that the lands and waters must be suitable for wildlife produc- 

 tion. The acquisition, development, and management of lands for big 

 game, upland birds, waterfowl, and fish will continue to be a major 

 effort of the department. These areas will become permanent havens 

 for wildlife where their numbers will be increased so hunting and fish- 

 ing may be enjoyed, thereon, by increasing numbers of future sportsmen. 



Artificial production will not only be kept to a maximum by proper 

 maintenance and more development. In addition, the department will 

 be very critical of its efforts and will constantly examine the actual 

 value of released trout and pheasants. This examination will reveal the 

 best methods of using the products of hatcheries and game farms. 

 It is essential that this expensive program be handled so the greatest 

 return will be realized for every dollar spent. 



Progress already made in the enforcement division is only a begin- 

 ning towards further efficiency. Prevention of game law violations 

 through education promises to reduce the illegal drain on wildlife re- 

 sources. Enforcement personnel will be an aid in solving management 

 problems by collecting specific facts in the field. Law enforcement will 

 receive greater attention through the continually increasing use of 

 modern equipment and techniques. These innovations will all pivot 

 around the warden district plan. 



Proper execution of these activities requires a well-organized depart- 

 ment which is completely adequate in every division. The department 

 in recent years has been undergoing a tremendous expansion. In 

 spite of additional personnel and equipment, the department is barely 

 able to adequately handle all matters that arise. This situation can be 

 corrected when the growing pains subside, and time is afforded for a- 

 glimpse into the future. Fuller attention then can be given to activities 

 which now are not possible to include in our program. 



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