City of Kalispell Growth Plan Response Letter 4.3.26 from MT Fish, Wildlife and ParksFWP.MT.GOV
Kalispell City Planning Department
201 15t Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59901
Dear City of Kalispell Planning Department,
THE OUTSIDE IS IN US ALL.
Director's Office
PO Box 200701
Helena, MT 59620-0701
(406) 444-3186
Fax (406) 444-4952
April 3, 2026
In recent days Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks (FWP) has received considerable feedback on its
March 16, 2026, letter discussing the City of Kalispell (City) Growth Policy Plan. FWP submits
this follow-up to clarify its role in this process.
Since 2025, and in accordance with section 76-25-209, MCA, of the Montana Land Use Policy
Act (MLUPA), FWP has discussed wildlife populations, habitat, and nesting sites with the City's
planning department.
FWP's role in this process is advisory, and FWP possesses no regulatory authority to compel or
require the City to incorporate specific design or geographic elements into its growth plans.
FWP recognizes its previous comment letter could be construed as compulsory in nature. While
FWP stands by its wildlife friendly recommendations, the agency would not and cannot require
entities to implement these measures. FWP will always be a resource for the City as it considers
wildlife impacts in its planning process.
Sincerely,
Director Cep
y Clark
Montana
Amber Steed
Region 1 Supervisor, Montana FWP