Billings Gazette

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte joined state Fish, Wildlife & Parks Director Christy Clark on a helicopter search for grizzly bears Wednesday around Choteau.

The grizzly population has steadily grown over the last decade in western Montana, fueling a debate over the bruin's continued inclusion on the federal threatened and endangered species list. State officials, led by Gianforte, have advocated for delisting grizzlies and allowing the state to take over management of the animal.

Flying near Choteau, Clark pointed out that a dozen bears were recently counted within a mile of town.

"Kids don't ride bikes, there's no trick or treating, my own family is building a bear-proof fence around their yard," she said.

Following the helicopter bear-spotting tour, a public FWP Bear A

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