It’s not too soon for landowners to submit an application for 2014 pheasant releases through Montana’s Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program.

Under Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ pheasant release program, landowners who attempt to establish pheasant populations in suitable habitat can be reimbursed for raising and releasing ring-necked pheasants.

Landowners interested in raising and releasing pheasants have until Jan. 15, 2014 to submit an application. Landowners can apply annually for up to five consecutive years to establish pheasants.

Projects must comprise at least 100 contiguous acres of land and contain a combination of habitat components that include the types of cover and food upland game birds need to survive. Lands enrolled in the pheasant release program must allow free public access to hunt upland game birds during the season the releases take place.

Applications need to be mailed to FWP in Helena no later than Jan.15, 2014. Pheasants will be scheduled for release between Aug. 1 and Sept. 15, 2014.

Hunting preserves, lands that host a commercial hunting enterprise, and lands where hunting rights are leased or paid for are not eligible.

For more information, and an on-line application form, visit FWP’s website at fwp.mt.gov—search “Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program,” or contact Debbie Hohler at: 406-444-5674, or by e-mail: dhohler@mt.gov.

(Report by Montana FWP; Cover photo: 8minutesonhigh.com)