Living with Wildlife: Protecting Animals, Preventing Conflict

Wildlife is part of life in Northwest Montana—but with the right tools and knowledge, we can reduce conflicts and better coexist with bears, wolves, and other large carnivores.

Join Christine Lambert (USDA Wildlife Services) and Garrett Tovey (Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks) for an informative workshop focused on practical, proactive wildlife conflict management.

This session is designed for livestock producers and community members alike who want to learn how to prevent wildlife conflicts before they happen.

 What you’ll learn:
• How predator-resistant electric fencing works
• Key differences between fences that hold livestock in vs. keep predators out
• Fence design, grounding, voltage, and common installation mistakes
• How proper fencing can prevent costly livestock losses

 Available support for producers:
• Up to 50% cost-share on electric fence supplies for livestock producers
• Fully funded fencing (materials + labor) for youth producers
• On-site installation assistance and maintenance training

 The workshop will also cover turbo fladry, a temporary deterrent used to reduce wolf pressure during lambing and calving seasons.

 For homeowners and community members:
Learn about wildlife behavior, reducing attractants around homes, and proactive steps that help communities live responsibly alongside wildlife.

This is a voluntary, partnership-based program focused on prevention—not enforcement. The goal is simple: protect livestock and help communities coexist with wildlife.

 Hosted by MSU Extension Sanders County and Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness

Come learn practical tools that help keep both livestock and wildlife safe.