Man fined for feeding grizzlies, black bears in North Fork bears

A Columbia Falls man has been fined for feeding bears, under a law that had yet to be enforced in the Flathead.

After a July 1 trial before Justice of the Peace Dale Trigg, William Molchan was fined $1,000, with $750 suspended, provided that he doesn't have any fish and game violations over the next six months.

Molchan was cited last fall for feeding animals and creating a threat to public safety on property he was caretaking in the North Fork of the Flathead.

He was prosecuted under a law passed by the 2003 Legislature, which improved the ability of state wardens to discourage intentional feeding of bears.

"I think this is the first time this has been used up here, so for me, it sets a precedent," said Tim Manley, grizzly bear management specialist for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

According to a department press release, Molchan put out 300 to 400 gallons of apples on the North Fork property with the intent of feeding deer and elk. The apples also attracted black bears and grizzly bears, creating a public safety problem, the department said.

Manley said concerned neighbors urged Molchan to stop putting out apples before the incident was reported, prompting a citation from game Warden Lee Anderson.

"People might intend to feed deer and elk, but often wind up attracting bears," Anderson said. "If you feed wildlife in a manner that attracts bears, you will be cited. Attracting bears to residences is dangerous for the people in the area. That is why it is illegal."

Molchan contested the charge, causing the trial to be delayed for several months. Two North Fork neighbors testified against him in Justice Court.