Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks - Region 5

Ready to boat this summer? Remember ALL watercraft (both motorized and nonmotorized) must stop at all watercraft inspection stations you encounter. Inspection stations are the first line of defense to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species!

FWP offices are closed today, July 3, in observance of the Fourth of July.

Have a safe and fun holiday, and we'll see you on Monday, July 6!

We had a guest presentation at Cooney State Park last week to discuss the importance of using local firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Buy firewood near where you’ll burn it, buy certified heat-treated firewood ahead of time, or gather firewood on site where permitted. These actions prevent the movement of tree-killing pests that could destroy forests in the places you love.

For more info, visit: https://www.dontmovefirewood.org/

🎆It's almost time for the Fourth of July! While you enjoy the holiday with family and friends, remember to stay safe and legal if you have any outdoor adventures in your plans. Keep these tips in mind:

🐌 Keep aquatic invasive species out of Montana’s waters by stopping at all check stations and cleaning, draining, and drying your watercraft.
🛑Remember, no fireworks on FWP property, including fishing access sites.
🐻Be bear aware when enjoying the outdoors this holiday, as bears can be found throughout Montana.
⛴And finally, Don’t Drink and Boat! Remember that boating under the influence is illegal, so prioritize safety while having fun on the water.

Have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July!

🛑Planning to participate in the Yellowstone Boat Float this year, or float at any other point this summer? FWP has some important reminders to keep everyone safe and happy, and to keep our waters and land clean.

‼️Hazards: Floating the Yellowstone River comes with inherent risk. There are many obstacles and potential hazards on this river, and new hazards are created constantly as the river changes. Make sure you have the skill set and proper equipment to safely navigate the Yellowstone (and all other rivers in Montana!).

🛶Personal floatation devices (PFD): Every watercraft needs to have a PFD for each person that fits the intended wearer, is in good condition, and is readily accessible. Every watercraft must carry one wearable PFD for each person on board. Children under 12 must wear a PFD while the watercraft is in motion. Lifejackets save lives!

🎣 Be respectful: There are other river users. Be mindful of anglers and other floaters.

🗑️Be tidy: Pack out all garbage. Do not trample vegetation at campsites.

✉️Conservation License: Any recreational user who accesses an FAS (among other state-owned sites) is required to have a Conservation License. If you have already purchased hunting, trapping, or fishing licenses and tags this year, you have already purchased your Conservation License.
For more information and to purchase Conservation Licenses, visit:
https://fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/conservation-license”

Earlier today, a member of the public brought a fawn to the Billings FWP office, concerned that it had been abandoned. This happens multiple times every year. While they had good intentions, this is NOT what you should do if you find a fawn (or any other baby animal). If baby animals are brought to our office, we will ask you to return it to where it was found, and if that is not possible, FWP may need to humanely euthanize it. Also, it is illegal to possess and care for a live animal taken from the wild.

What should you do if you find a baby animal?
🐰Leave it there! Mothers may leave their young alone for extended periods of time.
🐣Control your dog.
🦌Keep your distance. Handling baby animals can be dangerous, and they are often abandoned by adults after being handled because of the human scent.

Looking to complete Bowhunter Education before the season starts? There are a few opportunities coming up in the region in July! Please note, these will likely be the FINAL opportunities in the area before the fall.

🟧In-person class in Absarokee, starts July 11: https://www.register-ed.com/events/view/245415
🟧In-person class in Billings, starts July 11: https://www.register-ed.com/events/view/245480

🟧Field day for online students in Billings, July 12: https://www.register-ed.com/events/view/245481

There are multiple Hunter Education field days for online students open for registration in Billings in July and August!

For more info and to register for a field day, visit: https://www.register-ed.com/programs/montana/244-montana-optional-in-person-hunter-ed-field-day