Docket No. 13-0109-2601: Expand electronic tagging options to game birds

Rulemaking Status

The Department has begun the process of negotiated rulemaking. A public meeting was held Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

The intent to promulgate was published in the April 1, 2026, Idaho Administrative Bulletin.

Draft rulemaking language

Description

This rulemaking is being initiated to explore the opportunity to expand electronic tagging (e-tagging) options for game birds. By allowing e-tagging validation, the Department is attempting to modernize processes and eliminate the need for a paper tag in the field for those interested. This will help mitigate the trouble of faded, washed-out, or lost paper tags.

The Department is interested in e-tagging validation for turkeys and Wildlife Management Area-planted pheasants, initially, with potential to expand programming to cranes, sage-grouse, and swans. The rulemaking would allow for e-tagging and create provisions around the application of the e-tagging validation methodology.