HELENA –The new Montana Mule Deer Citizen Advisory Committee will meet twice this spring and help the department identify important issues in mule deer management and goals for the new mule deer management plan. This is an early step in the planning process with multiple opportunities for public input before the plan is finalized in time to inform the 2026-2027 hunting season-setting process.

“Most Montanans have a familiar appreciation for mule deer, given their statewide distribution,” said FWP Director Dustin Temple. “Hearing concerns and questions about population levels and disease, we are going to make the effort to ensure our management is based on the best contemporary science and consistent with Montanan’s expectations. This diverse citizen advisory committee is going to kick-start that effort.”

The advisory committee is comprised of 16 members, which were selected from a pool of 100 applicants. Members were selected based on their familiarity with issues involved with mule deer management and their willingness to work with a team and engage in productive discussions. They represent each FWP region and come from diverse backgrounds. The decision on committee members was made by FWP’s director and reviewed by the governor’s office. A complete list of members and more information can be found at fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission-councils-committees/mule-deer-citizens-advisory-committee.

The committee will meet twice before June 15, and their work is expected to be completed by June 30. Both meetings will be multi-day with the first meeting scheduled for May 6-8 in Helena and the second meeting dates and location to be determined.

These meetings will be open to the public via Zoom. Those who wish to provide public comment during the first meeting can register at fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission-councils-committees/mule-deer-citizens-advisory-committee; registration deadline is noon on May 6. There will be other opportunities for public engagement as the plan is developed.

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