GREAT FALLS — A state advisory committee has agreed that bison should be managed as wildlife in Montana but not allowed to roam freely.
The 20-member committee had its final meeting in Great Falls this past week as Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks officials continue work on a long-delayed plan for the future of bison in the state.
The Great Falls Tribune reports the group reached general agreement on several guiding principles. It did not reach consensus on potential relocation sites for bison from Yellowstone National Park.
Committee members included state and local elected officials and representatives of wildlife conservation groups, agriculture and sporting groups. Its recommendations are not binding.
Fish Wildlife and Parks Director Jeff Hagener says the agency expects to have a draft bison plan in the spring.