FWP Announces Comment Opportunities

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking public comment on two environmental assessments and an emergency closure. For more information, including how to submit comments, visit fwp. mt.gov/public-notices.

Buhmann Private Pond Application Environmental Assessment A landowner is applying for a Private Fish Pond License and proposes to stock rainbow trout, brown trout and largemouth bass. The private pond is approximately 0.25 surface acres and located on an unnamed tributary of the Yellowstone River in Shepherd. The pond was created by an earthen dam and escapement would likely only occur during historic flooding events. While located near the Yellowstone River, the risks with stocking the pond with hatchery-reared rainbow trout, brown trout and largemouth bass are minimal. Rainbow trout and brown trout are non-native but already well established in this drainage and risks associated with trout escapement are negligible and short-term in duration. Impacts from largemouth bass escapement into the Yellowstone River would likely be minor and short-term, as it is unlikely that largemouth bass could persist long-term in the river. Comments due June 6.

Hop Creek Ranch Private Pond Application Environmental Assessment A landowner is applying for a Private Fish Pond License and proposes to stock rainbow trout. The private pond is approximately 1.7 surface acres and located on Hop Creek, a tributary to Painted Robe Creek near the town of Broadview. Fish surveys in lower Painted Robe Creek have documented northern redbelly dace, a Montana Species of Special Concern, and it is likely that they occur in Hop Creek and the adjacent section of Painted Robe Creek. Comments due June 6.

There is ongoing construction at Carbella Bridge, which is located between the two above-referenced fishing access sites.

Comments are due June 21.