Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) has traditionally managed game species with a focus on providing greater hunter opportunity, including a higher number of available tags and longer seasons. Some members of Idaho’s outdoor sporting community have begun to express concerns related to the advancement of hunting technology and the potential erosion of fair chase ethic. However, IDFG also acknowledges that other members of Idaho’s outdoor sporting community do not share those same concerns.
Recognizing the widely varying opinions on the matter amongst Idaho’s outdoor sporting community the Idaho Fish and Game Commission (Commission) directed IDFG to organize and facilitate a working group to delve into this complex issue. The purpose of the Hunting and Advanced Technology (HAT) Working Group is to assess public perspectives on what is and is not considered “fair” technology to use in the pursuit of game and develop recommendations to the Commission that strike an appropriate balance between the use of hunting technology and fair chase ethic. Those recommendations would then be reviewed by the Commission and considered for implementation.
Members of the HAT Working Group will be asked to meet monthly beginning in October 2024 through March 2025. Meetings will predominantly be done virtually, with the understanding that some in-person participation will be expected. IDFG is looking for a thoughtful, well-rounded, and passionate group of Idahoans with varying perspectives on the use of technology in hunting to serve on the working group. Interested individuals need to be able to think critically, be respectful of differing perspectives, and work collaboratively with other members of the HAT Working Group. If you are a resident of Idaho who would like to participate as a member of the HAT Working Group, please complete the below form. IDFG will be accepting applications August 12, 2024 - August 27, 2024.
After the application period has ended, IDFG will review the applications and select individuals to participate.
If you have any questions, please contact Ellary TuckerWilliams, Legislative and Community Engagement Coordinator, at 208-287-2788 or ellary.tuckerwilliams@idfg.idaho.gov
If you are interested in being considered for the Hunting and Advanced Technology Working Group, please fill out the short information profile below.