The foundation says it has removed more than 400 wolves in Idaho, spending more than $225,000.

Testifying in favor of the bill was foundation Director Justin Webb, saying the program is funded by ranchers and sportsmen groups targeting areas that have seen declines in deer and elk populations. It provides private dollars to fund trappers at a fraction of lethal control programs run by USDA Wildlife Services, he said.

“Although bounties are used by numerous state agencies, the foundation is not a bounty program,” Webb told the committee.

Webb said the reimbursements are differentiated from bounties on several fronts. The funds are based on actual expense receipts and management of the animals remains under state regulations, not an unregulated take with cash prizes.

Webb said the foundation, “would be excited to work with and support (Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks) in the same way,” where wolves are causing management issues.

The bill saw additional support from livestock interests, the Montana Trappers Association and Montana Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife.