FOREWORD 



Montana is one of the few states that can boast of wilderness areas, 

 abundant wildlife resources, and other of the primitive wonders of early 

 day America. These wild resources in their pristine setting have a 

 very real value in the economy of the state and its recreational industry. 

 Wildlife has value, if properly nxanaged, in the balance of nature and 

 thus also has an effect on agriculture. However, its greatest value is 

 an intangible one that has to do with the physical, mental and spiritual 

 well-being of busy people in a rushing world. 



Wildife resources belong to all Montanans. and all are entitled to 

 equal shares of any dividends derived from these resources. It is the 

 responsibility of the Montana Fish and Game Department as charged 

 by law to manage wildlife resources for the benefit of all present and 

 future generations. 



This report is a review of progress during the past two years in the 

 development, propagation, utilization and conservation of Montana fish 

 and game and contains a summary of changes during the 50 years of 

 the department's existence. 



