87-1-283. Bull trout and cutthroat trout enhancement program. (1) In order to enhance bull trout and cutthroat trout populations through habitat restoration, reductions in species competition, and natural reproduction, the department shall, through its future fisheries improvement program, restore habitats and spawning areas and reduce species competition in rivers, lakes, and streams for Montana's bull trout and cutthroat trout.
     (2) In order to implement this section, the department may expend revenue from the bull trout and cutthroat trout enhancement program for one additional full-time employee and one contractor to assist the review panel.
     (3) The department shall also work with the department of transportation to implement bull trout and cutthroat trout enhancement by providing annual updates to the state transportation improvement program regarding possible additions to projects that will benefit the enhancement effort. State transportation improvement plan funds expended for bull trout and cutthroat trout must be accounted for separately and reported annually.

     History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 529, L. 1999.