Fish and Game Commission to Meet in Boise

The Idaho Fish and Game Commission will consider changes in hunting technology rules for big game and changes in trophy species rules during the annual meeting January 10, 11 and 12 in Boise. And two new commissioners face confirmation hearings in the state senate on January 12. The commission's annual meeting at Fish and Game Department headquarters in Boise starts at 1 p.m., January 10 with a workshop on mule deer. A public hearing is set for 7 p.m. that evening. About 9:40 a.m., January 11, commissioners will tackle nonbiological rules for big game, which will include consideration of changes in weapons technology, including electronic devices, bow let-off and arrow weight and length, and the definition of traditional muzzleloader, caliber and projectile requirements. During their November meeting in Lewiston, commissioners noted that the intent of a muzzleloader hunt was to allow hunters who use traditional muzzle-loading hunting rifles, which have limited range and reliability, an opportunity to hunt without competition from modern weapons. Current regulations define traditional muzzleloader hunting rifle as using only open sights, no scope or electronic devices, loose powder and between .45 and .50 caliber. Commissioners showed little resistance to changing archery technology, including an 85 percent let-off for compound bows, instead of the current 65 percent limit, expanding broadheads and changes in arrow length and weight if matched to the bow. About 10:30 a.m. commissioners will consider a pilot project for alternative ways to compensate landowners who participate in the Access Yes! program that provides hunter and angler access to private lands. Next they will consider changes in biological rules for trophy species-moose, bighorn sheep and mountain goats-including a proposed change in the definition of a legal ram to "any-ram" instead of the three-quarter curl requirement. Other changes include regional adjustments in bighorn sheep, mountain goat and moose seasons. After lunch on January 11, commissioners will meet with House Resources and Conservation Committee members at the Statehouse. They will return to headquarters to hear updates on the legislative session, pheasants and conservation programs, and on wolf management planning. Friday, January 12, will start with a presentation of the department's 2007-2012 Fisheries Management Plan. Commissioners will also get an update from the Idaho Fish and Wildlife Foundation. At 1:30 p.m., new Fish and Game commissioners Randall Budge and Robert Barowsky will head back to the Senate Resource Committee Room in the Statehouse for their confirmation hearings. (Note: Times on the agenda are approximate and subject to change.)