Ask the Conservation Officer (CO)

By Gary Hompland, Regional Conservation Officer Question: "At the Twin Falls County Fair I talked with a fellow at the Fish and Game booth about volunteering to help with some wildlife projects. I didn't get my name on the list but I would like to add my name now. How do I volunteer for some of the upcoming projects?" Answer: The Department is frequently involved in projects that require lots of help. We usually obtain this help from dedicated people who volunteer their time and energy. Some of the volunteers are associated with organized sporting groups, however many volunteers are unaffiliated and just feel obligated to do something to help wildlife. One our big projects on the horizon is collection of seed of native range plants for rehabilitation of recently burned wildlife habitats. The Department cooperates with the B.L.M. and U.S. Forest Service to obtain seed from native species on public land and assist with labor for planting or drilling. Another Department volunteer program utilizes volunteers to teach prospective young hunters in the mandatory hunter education program. If the public is interested in volunteering for any wildlife projects contact the Magic Valley region's volunteer coordinator Ed Papenberg or the hunter education coordinator Clayton Nielson at the address or phone number below. If you have any further questions you may call the Magic Valley Regional Office of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game at (208)324-4350 or e-mail us at the Fish and Game web site at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov.