Swan Lake project extension approved

SWAN LAKE — Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP), Region One, has completed an environmental assessment (EA) for the purpose of continuing an experimental removal of lake trout in Swan Lake, Mont. The proposed action would involve contracting with professional fishery consultants to conduct gill netting over a three-week period beginning late August or early September 2012. Additionally, FWP and Swan Valley Bull Trout Working Group personnel will remove spawning adult lake trout during the months of October and November by gill netting along known lake trout spawning sites. These activities would be conducted annually for five years.

Following a 30-day public comment period, FWP received 127 written comments by mail or email. Of the comments, 108 supported the proposed action, 14 were in opposition and five individuals had questions regarding the assessment, but did not comment either for or against the proposal.

Based on the results from the first three years of the project, analysis in the draft EA, and comments received, it is recommended that the proposed project be continued.