The bill would promote using range riders, guard dogs, electric fencing and similar measures to protect cows and sheep from attacks by wolves and bears. “This bill will expand funding to implement more nonlethal ways to keep our communities safe from predatory wildlife,” Daines said in a statement. “This bill is especially important for Montana’s farmers and ranchers, who depend on both lethal and nonlethal management for the well-being of their livestock to make a living.” Wolves killed 68 livestock in 2025, according to the most recent Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks report. The state Livestock Loss Board paid ranchers $92,917 for federally confirmed kills of cattle, sheep and dogs in 2025.