From a Public Trust to “Bulls for Billionaires”: The Collision of Wealth and Politics in Big Sky Country

Abstract

Montana has long been known for the big game hunting opportunities it provides both residents and nonresidents. This may change in the future, as the state confronts a number of challenging issues that pose a serious threat to its long-standing hunting culture. This paper examines key changes that have occurred in recent years involving population and technology, landownership and access, and politics and license allocation. The potential impacts of these issues on the hunting experience are discussed.

Keywords:

• Access
• big game hunting
• license allocation
• Montana
• politics
• wildlife