Griz specialist hired for Cabinet-Yaak MFWP
May 31, 2007
(Libby) - Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has hired a Grizzly Bear Management Specialist for the Cabinet-Yaak ecosystem. Kim Annis, an experienced bear management specialist who completed her master’s degree in bear conflict management, starts in the position next week. She will be based at the FWP Libby Field Station. The job was modeled after the successful bear management specialist position held by Tim Manley in the Flathead. Revett Minerals supplied funding for the position. The company operates the existing Troy Mine and owns the proposed Rock Creek Mine in the Cabinet Mountains.
"We are pleased to have completed this initial funding to enhance the grizzly bear recovery effort in the Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem in keeping with our overall commitment to environment protection," says Carson Rife of Revett Minerals. "This is just the first step in a long term cooperative effort with Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks, the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, as well as others, to begin implementing the conservation measures for our Rock Creek Project." The mitigation plan also includes funding for bear monitoring, securing 2,450 acres of bear habitat, purchase of bear proof garbage containers, and fencing of garbage sites.
According to FWP Wildlife Manager Jim Williams, the Grizzly Bear Management Specialist position has long been needed for the ecosystem. “This position is needed to work with the private property owners, mine staff, county government, and others to reduce bear conflicts,” says Williams. “The position will be responsible for capture and handling of conflict bears. If anyone has a conflict with bears, or has questions about living with bears, they can call Kim at the Libby Field Station at 293-4161.”
Story by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
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