Mandatory Certification Course for Wolf Trappers Slated September 29 in Havre, Montana
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks 09.19.12
A free mandatory course for anyone planning to trap wolves in Montana this winter will take place Sept. 29 in Havre.
The class runs from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Hill County Electric Co-op office, 2121 U.S. Highway 2 West. The class size is limited, and participants must pre-register online. One must be 11 years old or older to participate.
Registration can be completed by going to the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ website at http://fwp.mt.gov and following the links in the “Education” section. The site also includes opportunities to register for wolf trapping certification classes elsewhere in the state.
Earlier this year Montana became the second of the Lower 48 states to schedule a wolf trapping season. Idaho was the first in 2011. The FWP Commission agreed to require that all wolf trappers complete a class taught by FWP staff and experienced trappers. In addition to specifics on equipment and techniques, participants will learn about the history of Montana wolf management, trapping ethics, current regulations and other topics.
Wolf trappers must hold a Montana trapping license and complete the class before heading to the field. Licenses are currently on sale. Montana trapping licenses cost $20 for residents and $250 for nonresidents. Wolf hunting licenses cost $19 for residents and $350 for nonresidents.
Montana’s wolf trapping season runs from Dec. 15 to Feb. 28, 2013. In addition, Montana has a wolf hunting season that started Sept. 1 for archers in some backcountry districts. A general wolf season will open later.
