FWP commission will take up 'Quiet Waters' initiative May 11, 12

The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission will take action on the Quiet Waters rule proposal in a special meeting May 12.

The commission will hold a work session on May 11 at Montana WILD in Helena for an overview of the Quiet Waters rule proposal, and will reconvene on May 12 to make a final decision.

The initiative was met with opposition by motorboat enthusiasts and some members of the fishing community at a public hearing in Kalispell earlier this year. In fact, few spoke in favor of the new rules, which would restrict motorboat and jet ski use on the Flathead River mainstem as well as several other rivers in the state.

The commission will take public comment on the rule proposal at their special meeting on May 12. The meeting will be streamed live via video conferencing at FWP regional offices. Public comment can be given in person at any regional office or at Montana WILD. Both the work session and special meeting will be audio streamed live online at www.fwp.mt.gov.

The commission initiated rulemaking last spring on a petition submitted by Backcountry Hunters and Anglers titled the Quiet Waters Initiative. Public hearings on the proposed rules were held throughout Montana in January and extensive public comment was received. The proposed rules included language restricting motorized boating on a variety of rivers and streams across the state.

For the full agenda and additional information, visit FWP’s website at fwp.mt.gov. Click “For Commission Information.”

FWP ensures its meetings are fully accessible to individuals with special needs. To request arrangements call FWP at 406-444-3186.