Bozeman Area Trapping Ban
At Bold Visions Conservation, we are committed to ensuring that Montana’s public lands remain safe and accessible for all. That’s why we are leading the effort to ban trapping in two of the Bozeman area’s most cherished outdoor recreation spaces: the Bridger Mountains and Hyalite Canyon—an area totaling approximately 180,000 acres.
Why This Matters
Trapping poses a serious public safety risk to outdoor enthusiasts, families, and pets. In the last ten years, 226 dogs have been caught in traps in region 3 of Montana alone. The risk is real—traps can be encountered anywhere on public lands where trapping is allowed. For example, in 2017, a dog was caught and injured in a conibear trap on the Brackett Creek Trail in the Bridger Mountains. Over a quarter of all dogs who are caught in traps retain some form of injury from the encounter. Montana’s population is growing, and with it, the number of people who enjoy recreating outdoors with their dogs. As more residents and visitors take to the trails, the chances of dangerous encounters with traps only increase.
These incidents highlight the hidden dangers that traps pose to those who use public lands for hiking, skiing, hunting, and other recreational activities. No one should have to worry about their pet or child being caught in a trap or snare while simply enjoying Montana’s outdoors.
A Common-Sense Solution
Our proposed trapping ban in the Bridger Mountains and Hyalite Canyon is not about restricting people's use of public lands—it’s about prioritizing public safety in high-use areas. These landscapes are among the most popular outdoor destinations in southwest Montana, drawing thousands of visitors every year. We believe that public lands should be places of enjoyment and exploration, not zones of hidden danger. Also, dogs are allowed off-lease in most portions of National Forests, traps or snares near a trail can be deadly.
Join Us in Taking Action
We need your support to make this a reality. Whether you’re a hiker, hunter, pet owner, or simply someone who values safe access to the outdoors, your voice matters. Together, we can create a future where everyone—humans and animals alike—can enjoy Montana’s wild spaces without the threat of hidden traps.
Please take a moment and add your name to this petition, and let’s remove trapping from these vital public lands! Public Safety First, and compassion for wildlife.