MT Mule Deer Unit 444

# MT 444 Tactical Analysis ## Terrain & Access Unit 444 spans 310,911 acres (3,405–4,914 ft elevation) with only 14% public land — a significant drawback for DIY hunters. Terrain is mixed foothill to mid-elevation forest typical of central Montana. Limited public access means careful pre-season scouting and familiarity with available lands are essential. ## Herd Quality & Population Trend **Critical concern:** Region 7 (which includes this unit) saw mule deer populations collapse from 114,000 (2020) to 58,000 (2022) — a 52% decline. EHD, Blue Tongue, and CWD have decimated eastern Montana herds. Trophy quality has suffered accordingly. Recent record-book...