Public Listening Session in May on Proposed Updates to Sage Grouse Mitigation System
HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Sage Grouse Oversight Team (MSGOT) announces a public listening session on May 28, 2026, to gather input on recommendations to improve Montana’s sage grouse mitigation system.
Members of the Montana Sage Grouse Oversight Team (MSGOT) were recently presented a preliminary economic assessment of the mitigation program that recommends several technical changes aimed at strengthening long-term habitat protection while providing clearer, more predictable expectations for developers. The listening session will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to weigh in on how the report’s recommendations would work on the ground.
“Input from stakeholders and the public will ensure any updates to the program protect sage grouse habitat, remain fair to landowners, and provide clear, reliable rules for developers,” said Therese Hartman, The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) sage grouse habitat conservation program manager.
The listening session will be held at 2 p.m. on May 28, 2026, in the DNRC Big Sky Room (1539 Eleventh Ave. Helena, MT 59601), with an option to join virtually via a Teams link posted on the program website. Members of the public are encouraged to attend and share comments about the report after they have read it. Public comments may be sent to thartman@mt.gov using “Economic Assessment” in the subject line.
DRNC hosts the sage grouse habitat conservation program which is guided by MSGOT and works to sustain viable sage grouse populations and conserve habitat. To read the preliminary economic assessment, provide public comment, or get a Teams link visit: program homepage.
###
About DNRC:
DNRC’s mission is to help ensure that Montana's land and water resources provide benefits for present and future generations. Learn more at: https://dnrc.mt.gov/
About the Montana Sage Grouse Oversight Team:
The Montana Sage Grouse Oversight Team (MSGOT) oversees implementation of Montana's Sage Grouse Conservation Strategy by DNRC’s sage grouse habitat conservation program. MSGOT and the program implement the Greater Sage Grouse Stewardship Act, along with Executive Orders 12-2015 and 21-2015.
Tags: