Yellowstone Times

A series of meetings will be held in Montana to address the interaction between wild and domestic sheep. Organized by Montana State University Extension in collaboration with the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks biologists, these meetings will occur throughout April and May. The purpose is to discuss the Wild and Domestic Sheep Comingling Project, which examines the potential risks of contact between bighorn sheep and domestic sheep, as well as tools to maintain separation to prevent disease transmission.

"Our meetings embrace a participatory, transparent research model, inviting all stakeholders to co-produce solutions," stated Jared Beaver, MSU Extension wildlife specialist. Beaver emphasized the importance of garnering widespread support and engagement from Montana’s sheep community, encouraging producers to join the effort. He noted that "wild and domestic sheep interactions and respiratory disease affect lamb growers, wool producers, hunters and wildlife enthusiasts alike," thus highlighting the need for community involvement and true co-production in the research.

The challenges of managing interactions between wild and domestic sheep cover biological, social, and cultural aspects. Project managers aim to engage with communities to develop a comprehensive approach. "Our project will generate innovative management strategies that benefit producers, wildlife managers and sheep, both domestic and wild," added Beaver.

The meetings are open to the public at no cost, and no prior registration is required. Additionally, the Montana Wool Growers Association and the Montana Wild Sheep Foundation provide further support for these events.

Meeting details are as follows:

- April 22, Hamilton, Bitterroot River Inn

- May 6, Wolf Creek, Wolf Creek School

- May 15, Thompson Falls, Elks Lodge

- May 20, Dillon, Beaverhead County Fairgrounds 4-H Building

- May 20, Twin Bridges, Madison County Fairgrounds Jeffers Building

- May 29, Emigrant, Emigrant Community Hall

For more information, individuals can visit the Montana State University Extension's wildlife page.