The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is hosting two public meetings tonight and tomorrow night about planning efforts for the National Bison Range.The Service is preparing a comprehensive conservation plan (CCPs) and accompanying environmental analysis for the Range after announcing last month it will retain management. Last year, the Obama administration proposed handing over management to the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The BIA would then transfer local control to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.
Now, the Fish and Wildlife Service says it will not pursue that plan.
Tonight’s meeting is already underway in Polson at the Red Lion Ridgewater Inn. Tomorrow’s is from 5-7 PM at the Kalispell Public Library. The meetings will follow an open-house format, with brief presentations at 6 PM.
Attendees are invited to arrive anytime between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to meet with Service personnel, learn more about the CCP process, and provide input.