Elk-Brucellosis Working Group Set to Meet In Bozeman Montana

A newly appointed working group charged with developing elk management options in areas where the transmission of brucellosis between elk and livestock is a concern is set to meet in Bozeman Jan. 26-27.

The working group will lead an effort to examine effective elk management options and risk prevention efforts in several southwestern Montana hunting districts. The areas generally include hunting districts that border or are near Yellowstone National Park.

The meeting is set to begin at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 26, and continue through Friday, Jan. 27, at the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ office in Bozeman at 1400 S. 19th St.

Brucellosis is a contagious bacterial infection in domestic animals, wildlife and humans worldwide. In Montana, brucellosis has been detected in elk, bison and, several years ago, in cattle in areas surrounding Yellowstone National Park. The disease results in miscarriages in some pregnant animals, including domestic cattle, and bison and elk.

Working group members were appointed by FWP Director Joe Maurier in consultation with the FWP Commission. Members include Mark Albrecht, Bozeman; John Anderson, Alder; Ed Bukoskey, Rosebud; Joe Cohenour, East Helena; Rick Douglass, Butte; Rick Gibson, Livingston; Lorents Grosfield, Big Timber; Raymond Marxer, Twin Bridges; Charlie Noland, Huntley; William Raths, Lewistown; and C. Thomas Rice, Dillon.

The meetings are open to the public to observe but because the sessions are dedicated to the group’s efforts they will not include public comment. Public comment opportunities will be offered if the FWP Commission considers recommendations from the working group. For additional information, call 406-444-5612.