Montana Agency Faces Leadership Shakeup After Leaked Report

Consultants recommend staff reassignment or replacement at state wildlife agency

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:32am

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A photorealistic painting of a lone park ranger standing in the middle of a sparse, dimly lit government office, the scene bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of isolation and uncertainty.The leaked report on leadership changes at Montana's wildlife agency suggests an agency in turmoil, with an uncertain future ahead.Great Falls Today

A leaked report from a leadership consulting firm has revealed that the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) is facing a major shakeup in its top ranks. The report, authored by Bryan Lockerby of the Great Falls-based Lockerby Leadership Group, states that the agency's 'first and immediate priority' should be the possible reassignment or replacement of current staff.

Why it matters

The FWP is a critical state agency responsible for managing Montana's natural resources and wildlife. Any significant leadership changes could have wide-ranging impacts on conservation efforts, outdoor recreation, and the state's economy. The leaked report suggests internal turmoil and a perceived need for a major overhaul at the agency.

The details

The report from the Lockerby Leadership Group was commissioned by the FWP to assess the agency's leadership and operations. According to the leaked document, the consultants found significant issues that require immediate action, including the possible reassignment or replacement of current staff. The report did not provide specifics on which positions or individuals may be targeted for changes.

  • The report was commissioned by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks in early 2026.
  • The report was leaked to the public on March 29, 2026.

The players

Bryan Lockerby

The founder and principal of the Great Falls-based Lockerby Leadership Group, which was hired by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks to assess the agency's leadership and operations.

Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks

The state agency responsible for managing Montana's natural resources and wildlife, which commissioned the leadership report that was recently leaked to the public.

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What’s next

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks has not yet commented publicly on the leaked report or indicated what actions it plans to take in response to the consultants' recommendations.

The takeaway

This leaked report suggests significant turmoil and the potential for major leadership changes at Montana's Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks. The recommendations to reassign or replace staff raise questions about the agency's internal operations and the state's commitment to effective natural resource management.