Directed Patrol Aims to Save Motorists and Deer

Vehicle vs. mule deer collisions are increasing along State Highway 21, from Boise north to Idaho City, prompting an upcoming directed patrol. Beginning Monday, April 20, enforcement officers from three agencies will team up to ticket and educate speeding drivers along the heavily traveled highway. Officers from Idaho Fish and Game, Idaho State Police and the Ada County Sheriff's office will work together to encourage motorists to slow down. "It's all about safety, both for motorists and for mule deer," Fish and Game conservation educator Evin Oneale said. "We've seen an uptick in collisions along Highway 21, and in all but a few cases, excessive speed played a decisive role." Officers will be handing out educational fliers to drivers stopped for speeding violations to raise awareness and increase speed limit compliance. "Deer are most active in the early morning and late afternoon, times that coincide with rush hour," Oneale said. "We're hopeful that raising awareness will save a few deer and some very costly repair bills."