Access YES Program Launched

LEWISTON - Idahoans will have more places to hunt this coming fall as a pilot program aimed at providing access to private and public lands begins. Named Access YES, the new program will be operated by Fish and Game with support of the Idaho Department of Agriculture. The program's immediate goal is to provide access to hunting and fishing lands as well as across private property to public lands that would otherwise have no access. Landowners have already indicated interest in providing sample bids for some 67,000 acres. Details of the program can be obtained through Fish and Game's Clearwater Regional Office at 1540 Warner Avenue in Lewiston, 799-5010, as well as several agricultural agencies. Initial funding for access contracts will come from interest on a Fish and Game depredation account and other department sources. A permanent source of money to pay landowners is still being developed by the department and the Fish and Game Commission. Like any new program, there are wrinkles that need to be ironed out in this new program. "That's why we've decided to conduct it as a pilot program this first year," said Landowner-Sportsman Coordinator, Clay Hickey. "We expect funding to be tight during the program's first year, as well as competition for contracts among the landowners." Access YES was developed due to public sentiment. "Many Idahoans see their state's strong hunting and fishing heritage being eroded as access becomes limited and wildlife habitat is lost," Hickey said. "This program can help to preserve that heritage as well as the livelihoods that depend on it." A regional committee of hunters and anglers will be established to evaluate bids submitted from their local area. The group of five will meet to review bids and select properties to include in the program this fall. "I invite interested hunters and anglers to give me a call to discuss the duties of being on this committee," Fish and Game Wildlife Manager Jay Crenshaw said. "It's a short, but important commitment that will be a key part of the program." Landowner property bid applications need to be postmarked by May 10, or hand delivered to the Clearwater Regional Office by May 15. The selection committee will then review all applications and contracts awarded in June. During the summer, signs identifying Access Yes participating properties will be installed, and an access guide of enrolled properties will be made available to the public prior to the fall, 2003 hunting season.