"I think we realize that they're here to stay. We just need to learn how to live with them- and what we need to do, to do that" Commissioner Joe Skinner said, during Thursday night public meeting.

He was referring to large predators in Gallatin County- including mountain lions, bears and wolves.

County Commissioners are gathering information on the impact large predators have on big game and livestock in the area.

"We're going to customize that policy from what we hear, and what we feel the constituents in this county want us to advocate for" Commissioner Skinner said.

When setting predator policy, Fish, Wildlife and Parks is required to take input from Commissioners.

Commissioners turned to Gallatin County residents for thoughts.

"Fish, Wildlife and Parks- this is only their second year that they've had wolves under their management" local Nancy Schulz said. "I encourage you, the Commission, to let them manage."

Some like Schulz said the county needs to leave it in the hands of FWP.

"There's a perceived problem, which according to the numbers, doesn't seem to hold up" said Bozeman resident Ted Rechlin.

Rechlin said there was no problem in Gallatin County that he could see, and therefore, no need for management.

But some residents, like Tom Tuck, said it's important for the county to get involved and he urged them to take control.

"These need to be local issues" he said. "They need to be taken care of, and contemplated and worked on by the people that are most affected."

County Commissioners will take all the comments heard Thursday night into consideration when coming up with a policy, which they hope to have completed by late August or early September.

Commissioners will hold another public meeting on predator issues on May 30th, at 7 pm in the Community Room of the Courthouse on Main Street.