MT HB568

Requires the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks to conduct a study on nonresident hunter impacts on deer, elk, upland game bird, and waterfowl hunting statewide and by administrative region

Study must analyze hunter days, harvest reporting, hunting access program land use, public land hunting pressure, elk and deer population trends, and licensing data

Department must publish a public report by December 1, 2026, identifying specific issues for legislative and commission consideration regarding nonresident hunting impacts

Responds to approximately 1 million acres lost from the block management program over the past 10 years and the first comprehensive hunting season assessment in 40 years

Act takes effect immediately upon passage and terminates December 31, 2026