12.9.1406    THE QUOTA AND ESTABLISHING AND ADJUSTING THE QUOTA

(1)  For each delisted ecosystem, the commission will establish an annual quota for the number of delisted grizzly bears that may be taken by a livestock owner or other authorized person, whether permitted or not, pursuant to 87-5-301, MCA.  The commission shall consider relevant factors, including information provided to the commission by the department in the grizzly bear annual report, the most recent grizzly bear population estimate, the mortality threshold, and previous quotas. The quota pertains to both within and outside of the DMA.  

(2) Grizzly bears taken by the department, wildlife services, or an individual person in self-defense do not count towards the quota.

(3)  Information concerning the quota will be made public via the department's website.

(4)  When the quota is met, the department will make a public announcement, via its webpage and social media page.  The quota will officially close at 11:59 p.m., the same day the department's notice is made.

(5) Any individual who takes a grizzly bear after the quota is closed may be subject to criminal penalties, pursuant to 87-6-201, 87-6-413, 87-6-905, and 87-6-907, MCA, as applicable, and the deceased bear(s) will be recognized in determining the next year's available quota.

(6) If the commission determines that circumstances require an adjustment to the total number of grizzly bears taken, pursuant to 87-5-301(3), MCA, then it may, at any time prior to the quota being met, adjust the quota.

History: 87-1-201, 87-1-301, MCA; IMP, 87-5-301, 87-6-106, MCA; NEW, 2024 MAR p. 60, Eff. 1/13/24.