FW seeks river recreation advisory council members

HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking up to 12 people to serve on a statewide River Recreation Advisory Council.

The River Recreation Advisory Council’s purpose is to develop a set of recommendations for managing river recreation in Montana and administering the use of water-related activities. The focus area extends to department lands and water bodies that are restricted under the authority of FWP. This includes recreation use on and along the water way, including fishing access sites.

Montana boasts an abundance of publicly accessible rivers that support a wide array of recreational activities, including fishing, hunting, swimming, floating and both motorized and non-motorized boating. The popularity of these activities has led to challenges such as user conflicts and congestion at access points. Moreover, there are differing opinions on how best to manage and allocate opportunities for river recreation.

The advisory council will include various stakeholders with an interest in river recreation. The council will promote transparent discussions on how best to manage recreation, including when it may need to be managed for the protection of the resources and the quality of the experience.

The advisory council will meet for a three-day workshop from Oct. 16 to 18. In addition to the workshop, virtual meetings may be scheduled in October and there will be a virtual meeting in early November to present the council's final recommendations.

FWP welcomes applications from anyone with an interest in natural resource issues and water-related outdoor recreation.

To apply, download and complete the application at fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission-councils-committees/river-recreation-advisory-council. Applications must be received by Aug. 2.