The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks held an auction to generate funds for wildlife and future projects. This auction took place back on Sept. 25th. in Billings. Several states hold auctions for wildlife funding. However, this auction was a little different. All the items in this auction were confiscated by FWP during poaching incidents over the last four years.
Montana law requires FWP to sell seized items at public auction. As a result, these auctions are held once enough seized items are obtained. The last event like this was held back in 2017. This auction consisted of fish, birds, big game heads, antlers, hides, and teeth.
On average, these auctions usually generate around $100,000. However, due to the auctions happening four apart, more inventory was available for the event.
“Our enforcement staff works hard throughout the year to protect Montana’s natural resources. The money raised in the auction goes right back into the critical conservation work we do across the state.” – FWP Director Hank Worsech
Over the course of the night, the FWP was able to generate $311,740 in funds. However, after paying for commission and expenses, the FWP made $260,479 to go towards more wildlife projects and conservation.
It looks like Montana is already looking towards its next event, earlier this month a Darby man was sentenced to prison for poaching. Most of the items he used to poach were also confiscated. You can read about this story by clicking here. Likewise, you can read more about Montana hunting news by clicking here. You can also check out the FWP’s website by clicking here.
