Open letter to Fish and Wildlife Commissioners:

by Dr. Linda S. Kauffman. Stevensville

I was very disappointed to see the Commissioner Burrows’ amendment removing all trap and snare setbacks from 16 or more seasonally closed roads in Ravalli County was approved, despite opposition by the preponderance of public comment. There is overwhelming evidence that relaxing these trapping regulations endangers recreation on public lands. 

As a practicing veterinarian in Ravalli County for more than 30 years, I have seen my share of traumatic injuries to dogs and other domestic animals from traps and poisonings intended for predators and fur-bearing game. 

Until now I have remained silent, but this decision prompts me to speak out. There is a growing number of outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, skiing and snowshoeing with their animal companions in every corner of State and Federal land in Ravalli County. This change threatens their safety, just so trappers won’t have to walk to their traps a slightly longer distance from the popular public trails and areas. 

If you must go forward with this decision, I would plead with you to require trappers or FWP to prominently mark trapping areas to warn recreationists and their animals. 

Yes, as citizens of the State of Montana we have rights to do many things, but we MUST use those rights responsibly, each and every one of us. Please use your decision-making power to protect members of the public who enjoy our state’s wonderful natural surroundings.