MT Mule Deer Unit 590

# MT 590 Tactical Analysis ## Terrain & Conditions Unit 590 spans 1.87 million acres across mixed elevation (2,700–4,738 ft) but is heavily private—only 10% public land. This severely limits accessible hunting and requires significant scouting or prior knowledge of public parcels and access points. Terrain is likely rolling to mountainous with mixed forest and grassland habitat typical of central Montana's transition zone. ## Herd Status & Population Concern **Critical caveat:** Forum context indicates Region 7 (which includes this unit) experienced catastrophic mule deer population collapse—58,000 deer in 2022 vs. 114,000 in 2020 (52% decline). Disease (EHD, Blue Tongue, CWD)...