How The New Wolf Management Plan Will Affect Montanans

A summary of the key information is provided at the bottom of the article.

BUTTE, MT - Montana has long been at the center of the national debate surrounding gray wolf populations—balancing wildlife conservation, livestock protection, and outdoor recreation.

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This March, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) released its much-anticipated 2025 Wolf Management Plan, a 75-page document outlining how the state intends to handle its thriving wolf population in the years to come.

The updated plan replaces the state’s previous wolf management strategy, which was developed over two decades ago.

So, what’s in the new plan? And how are different sides of the debate responding?

Why the New Plan?

The 2003 Wolf Plan served as the framework for wolf conservation after their reintroduction, but it no longer reflects the realities on the ground.

Since then, wolf populations have stabilized and expanded, new laws have changed how wolves are managed, and scientific techniques for monitoring have significantly advanced.

The 2025 Wolf Plan aims to ensure management remains flexible, science-based, and adaptable to both biological changes and shifting public attitudes​.

FWP’s approach now includes a broader toolkit: from predictive modeling (like iPOM) to non-invasive genetic surveys, alongside traditional tracking.

These tools give biologists a more accurate picture of the population, helping the agency craft responsive, transparent policies​.

Monitoring and Research

Wolves will continue to be tracked using both cutting-edge technologies and fieldwork.

Radio collars, scat sampling, drone flights, and even trained detection dogs all help determine population numbers and pack behavior.

The integrated Patch Occupancy Model (iPOM) now replaces outdated minimum counts and allows FWP to predict wolf numbers and distribution with greater accuracy​.

FWP also works closely with universities, federal agencies, and tribal partners to conduct joint research projects.

A major ongoing initiative is the development of a Harvest Management Strategy Evaluation—basically, a forecasting tool to simulate the long-term effects of various hunting and trapping scenarios​.

Population Management and Hunting

Montana does not set a hard population target for wolves.

Instead, the state maintains a threshold of 450 wolves—the estimated minimum to support 15 breeding pairs and avoid federal intervention.

Recent estimates put the population well above this figure. FWP uses hunting and trapping as management tools, with annual quotas determined based on current data and public input​.

The plan allows the Fish and Wildlife Commission to adjust harvest seasons and quotas based on real-time monitoring.

These decisions aim to maintain a healthy, sustainable population while addressing the needs of livestock producers and game managers.

Dealing with Livestock Conflicts

Wolf-livestock conflicts remain one of the most contentious issues.

FWP continues to prioritize non-lethal methods—like fladry, range riders, and carcass removal—especially in high-conflict zones. But when wolves persistently kill livestock, lethal control is authorized.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services investigates suspected depredations.

If confirmed, landowners may qualify for compensation through the Montana Livestock Loss Board, which also helps fund preventative measures​.

Public Engagement and Education

FWP’s wolf plan was shaped by a lengthy public process, including virtual meetings, in-person forums, and multiple rounds of comment periods.

The department says this transparency will continue, with public comment always welcome on hunting quotas and management strategies.

Meanwhile, FWP is expanding education and outreach efforts. Required Wolf Trapper Education classes, regular program reports, and interactive tools like the Wolf Harvest Dashboard aim to help Montanans stay informed and involved​.

Conclusion

Montana’s wolves are here to stay—and so are the passionate opinions surrounding them. The 2025 Wolf Management Plan recognizes that managing wolves means managing people too. With a science-first philosophy, a diverse toolbox of management methods, and robust public engagement, FWP is trying to ensure wolves remain a part of Montana’s landscape while reducing conflicts on the ground.

Whether you see wolves as icons or intruders, one thing is clear: their story in Montana is far from over.

Summary:

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has released its 2025 Wolf Management Plan, updating its strategy for managing gray wolves across the state. The plan emphasizes adaptability, scientific monitoring, and public involvement over rigid population targets.

It includes advanced tools like predictive modeling (iPOM), non-invasive genetic surveys, and collaborative research to estimate population size and guide decisions. Hunting and trapping remain key management tools, while non-lethal methods are prioritized to reduce livestock conflicts.

The plan also stresses transparency, with ongoing public input and educational outreach. Ultimately, the goal is to balance ecological sustainability with the needs of landowners, hunters, and wildlife advocates.