FWP block management program info available

Hunters will be able to obtain the 2021 Block Management Area (BMA) program information beginning this week. Hunters are encouraged to request their 2021 BMA Access Guide online and download or print individual BMA maps at fwp.mt.gov/BMA.

By utilizing the FWP website fwp.mt.gov/BMA, hunters will have instant access to the Access Guide and up-to-date BMA maps and rules for every individual BMA enrolled in the program.

“Obtaining these individual BMA maps and rules via our website are key to successfully utilizing the BMA program as not all rules or instructions for obtaining landowner permission are listed in the overview guide,” said Jason Kool, Hunting Access Bureau Chief. “The website will also feature a list of BMAs that are restricted or initially closed due to fire danger.”

Hunters may also obtain individual BMA maps at permission sign-in boxes, or via phone, walk-in, mail or email request to FWP at the contact information below.

Also, like in previous years, some BMAs may have varying dates they are taking hunter reservations. While reservations cannot start before Aug. 22, some BMA reservation start dates will be scattered throughout the season to better accommodate hunter demands.

“Hunters should check their Access Guide or view the individual BMA map and rules to determine when or if a given BMA will start reservations,” said Kool.

Fish, Wildlife, & Parks urges hunters to use caution due to extremely dry conditions and to extend a “thank you” to all Montana landowners who collaborate on access opportunities that benefit wildlife and public hunters. The Block Management program, through partnerships formed with private landowners, government agencies and conservation organizations will provide access to more than 7.1 million acres of private and isolated public land for the 2021 hunting season.

Sanders County is in Region 1 for FWP. Contact the Hunting Access Program at [email protected] or (406) 752-5501.