'.' ISSUE #11 



Nonresident/Resident Opportunities 19 comments 



Summary 



Public comment, as among several other issues, was divided. This also was one of several issues in 

 which respondents were primarily hunters. 



Some comment recognized several contributions made by nonresident hunters that benefit wdldlife 

 management programs and hunting in general. Such comment also stressed the need to continue 

 limiting nimibers of nonresident hunters. 



Other comments represent a point of view that the set-aside of nonresident combo (B-10) licenses for 

 clientele of outfitters and market-based pricing are benefitting the outfitting industry at the expense of 

 the resident hunter and even some nonresident hunters. Other comment suggested that license fees 

 for both resident and nonresident licenses be increased; this was not addressed among the alternatives 

 in the draft EIS. 



W 

 The impact of anti-hunting sentiments and their effect on FWP programs also was tied to this issue. 

 Some comment suggested that these sentiments should not influence FWP decision-making. Some 

 comment maintained that support of nonresident hunters could help defend FWP programs from 

 attacks from those with an anti-himting philosophy. 



Sanities of Comments 



• Market-driven license will phase average Montanans out of hunting — also reduces 

 opportunity for nonresidents. 



• Nonresident hunters should pay for the "right" to hvmt in Montana; residents have a right 

 under reasonable restrictions. 



• Looks like several options are being considered to increase out-of-state dollars to increase 

 FWP budget. Don't sell out to nonresidents for more money to the Department. 



• I have problems with alternatives that provide outfitters with a guarantee for permits. By that 

 you are guaranteeing them a living. I don't get that and they shouldn't either. 



• Remember that there is a substantial amount of fimds generated by the nonresident hunter that 

 help support management here in Montana. More important, I think that we must remember 

 that when the anti-hunting attack arrives here in Montana we will need the support of all 

 noiu'esident hunters to battle this attack. 



Response: FWP would continue to restrict numbers of nonresident big game 

 combination licenses and charge nonresidents ' higher fees for licenses. Under certain 

 circumstances, the Commission would designate where nonresidents can hunt. Under 



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