Fish and Game Commission to Meet in Boise

The Idaho Fish and Game Commission will consider lowering the price for nonresident deer tags during the annual meeting January 27-29 at Fish and Game headquarters in Boise. On Wednesday, January 27, commissioners will meet with the House Resources and Conservation Committee from 1:30 to 3:30 pm in the East Atrium Wing of the Statehouse. A public comment period will begin at 7 p.m. at Fish and Game headquarters, 600 S. Walnut. On Thursday, January 28, the commission meeting will start at 8 a.m. with the posting of the colors and the pledge of allegiance by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game Honor Guard. Later in the morning, commissioners will hear updates on the mandatory harvest reports and deer and elk status. Commissioners will consider upland game and furbearer seasons as well as a Bear Lake fishery management plan. After lunch, they will hear updates on fishing rules for 2011-2012, on salmon forecasts and potential seasons, and a budget preview. They also will consider a fee reduction for nonresident deer tags. The cost to hunt deer in Idaho is the highest of 11 western states. Fish and Game has recommended reducing nonresident deer tags to $255 from the current $300. Commissioners also will hear an update on the ongoing wolf hunting season. On Friday, January 29, commissioners will meet with the Senate Resources and Environment Committee from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the West Atrium Wing of the Statehouse. Times on the agenda are approximate and subject to change.