FOREWORD 



Wildlife is an important part of Montana's natural wealth. His- 

 torically, it played a basic part in the formation of this state. Fur. 

 particularly beaver, attracted early-day trappers who did much of the 

 first exploration in the west. Game and fish sustained the white man 

 and provided his clothing even as it had his Indian predecessors. 



Today, wildlife is contributing a different and perhaps a more 

 important value as a source of relaxation and recreation to break the 

 pace of modern living. In Montana, wildlife and recreation are also 

 assuming a ver\- important role in the state's financial structure. 



It is the job of the Fish and Game . Department to maintain 

 the maximum amount of fish and game compatible with other eco- 

 nomic land and water uses. This task is becoming more difficult each 

 year. The demand for hunting and fishing continues to increase at an 

 almost startling rate while at the same tiine the habitat in which these 

 animals must be rai.sed becomes less. 



Fish and game management must rely on research and basic 

 facts to solve these problems. Gone are the days when guesses and 

 casual observations can be used to manage game. Only scientific stud- 

 ies can be expected to indicate the proper action nece.ssary for kma- 

 range game management. 



Along with research, the department must rely on enforcenien'. 

 and education as well as fish and game production to meet the chal- 

 lenge of the future. Places for wildlife to live and places for sportsmen 

 to pursue their sport are all part of the complex problem. 



Of all the states, Montana has a favored position as an area lor 

 high quality outdoor recreation. This is an asset not just to Montana 

 but to the entire nation and its perpeti:ation and management is a 

 nation-wide responsibility. 



Facing up to this challenge, the department is conducting a prt)- 

 gram of research management, enforcement and education which will 

 perpetuate the resource. These, howe\er, are joint responsibilities 

 which must be shared by all Montana citizens. The department can- 

 not provide recreation where wateis :i'-e polluted or land habitat 

 destroyed. 



This repo't is a brief summary of tlie activities of the Kisli and 

 Game Department as it meets the problems of the present and pre- 

 pares to meet those of the future. 



