Water is once again flowing to the pond complex at the Birding Island segment of Payette River WMA, thanks to some ingenuity by WMA manager Steve Dempsey.
The control structure and motor are in place, but additional parts to operate the motor remotely remain on order. While the wait continues, Dempsey "hotwired" the motor using a 12-volt battery, which allowed the headgate to be adjusted and the water to start flowing. "I anticipate all the ponds will be full by mid-January," Dempsey said. "And I'm happy to get these ponds back in operation for the remainder of the waterfowl season."
Remember that 2020 requires a new hunting and fishing license, even if the season (such as waterfowl) bridges two calendar years. Get yours online, at a Fish and Game office or any license vendor.
