Research

This elk is one of eight cow elk in the North Hills herd that has been outfitted with a GPS radio collar that tracks the elk’s location every two hours—or more frequently if researchers specify (Shawn Cleveland photo).

The only one of Missoula’s elk herds that has been extensively studied is the North Hills herd.

In 2010, Shawn Cleveland competed a study of radio collared elk in the North Hills. His University of Montana master's study showed that hunting has helped distribute the elk on their winter range along Missoula's urban fringe. The North Hills elk still maintain some fear of humans, avoiding homes and trails.

Darrel Weybright studied the herd for his master’s degree from the University of Montana in 1983. A summary of his study includes the pages related to the locations of radio collared elk and recommendations for management. The entire study includes detailed studies of vegetation on the National Wildlife Federation property in Grant Creek.