Effects of hunting regulation changes on elk and hunters in the Gravelly-Snowcrest Mountains, Montana

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The results contained in this report provide insights into the dynamics of the Gravelly-Snowcrest Mountains elk herd of southwest Montana, including population numbers, sex and age structure, reproduction and mortality, distribution and movements, and broad habitat use patterns. In addition, the authors evaluated the impacts of several hunting season modifications on bull elk age structure, progressing from an any-bull legal season to a branch-antlered bull season to a brow-tined bull season type. Outcomes are compared to results from other areas of Montana where different harvest management prescriptions have been implemented. Population trend, rate of growth, and productivity were monitored under varying levels of antlerless elk harvest, and implications for future population management options are discussed. It is the intent of the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks that these research findings be incorporated into elk management discussions at all levels and assist in refining elk management strategies across the state.

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ELECTRONIC FILE - Zoology: Mammals

SWAP (2/19/2016) citation:
Hamlin KL and MS Ross. 2002. Effects of hunting regulation changes on elk and hunters in the Gravelly-Snowcrest Mountains, Montana. Helena (MT): Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. [accessed 2016 Jan 14]. 220 p. Federal Aid Project W-120-R. [accessed 2016 Jan 14]. https://archive.org/details/effectsofhunting61haml