Courtesy Goes A Long Way When Asking To Hunt On Private Land

LEWISTON - With dove, forest grouse and big game archery seasons fast approaching, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) reminds hunters that a little courtesy goes a long way in obtaining permission to hunt private property. IDFG Landowner-Sportsmen Relations Coordinator, Clay Hickey believes the keys to gaining permission to hunt private land are common courtesy and advanced planning. "I've found in talking with landowners that a little courtesy goes a long way," Hickey said. "The hunter who plans ahead and asks permission well in advance is often welcomed." According to Hickey, asking for permission is crucial in the relationships between landowners and hunters, and it only takes one trespassing violation to ruin access privileges for other hunters. "Hunting private land is a privilege, not a right," he said. "If hunters respect private property and show their gratitude afterward, they can establish a relationship with the landowner that both will appreciate." IDFG encourages both hunters and landowners to utilize the Landowner/Sportsmen Courtesy Cards that communicates important information such as name, phone number and vehicle description. The two-part, pocket-sized booklet of six cards provides hunters a handy way of exchanging essential information with landowners, who in turn, feel more secure knowing who is hunting on their property and how to contact them. Landowners grant permission a number of ways, including face-to-face, by telephone, in writing or by posting signs that explain the type of hunting allowed and the conditions that may apply. IDFG provides property owners free signs that address the issue of respecting private property. The signs include "hunting by permission only," "road closed to vehicles," and "safety zone." For more information, call 799-5010 or drop by Fish and Game's Lewiston office at 1540 Warner Avenue.