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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Montana anglers must purchase aquatic invasive species pass

Associated Press

HELENA – Anglers in Montana will need to purchase an aquatic invasive species prevention pass following legislation signed by Gov. Steve Bullock.

The Independent Record reported Bullock signed the bill Thursday. It requires all anglers, including those who have already purchased a fishing license, to buy the prevention pass.

The pass fee is the main funding mechanism of Montana’s fight against aquatic invasive species. The bill is in response to last year’s detection of invasive mussel larvae in Tiber Reservoir and suspected detection in Canyon Ferry Reservoir, which triggered a governor’s emergency declaration.

Residents have to pay $2 for the pass and non-residents will play $15. The passes are estimated to generate $3.2 million.