Bullock overhauls FWP, Chinook man named to commission

HELENA (AP) — Gov. Steve Bullock has overhauled the state Fish, Wildlife and Parks panel by replacing three members and naming a new chairman.

The commission oversees hunting and fishing regulations and is a lightning rod on many issues, including wolf and bison management.

Bullock on Tuesday named Richard Stuker of Chinook, Matthew Tourtlotte of Billings and Lawrence Wetsit of Wolf Point as new commissioners.

They replace Ron Moody, Shane Colton and A.J. Stafne.

The only holdovers from former Gov. Brian Schweitzer's term are Bob Ream of Helena and Dan Vermillion of Livingston.

Vermillion will replace Ream as chairman.

The first meeting of the new commission is April 11.

In making the appointments, Bullock also directed the agency and the commission to review its budgeting process, its land holdings and its land-acquisition policies.