Fish and Game Honors Wildlife Reservists

The Magic Valley Region of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game recently recognized members of its Wildlife Reservist program for their contribution to managing Idaho's fish and wildlife resources in 2007. Jenny Ferguson of Burley was named Reservist of the Year for her continuing participation and tireless efforts on behalf of wildlife. She distinguished herself by being available for a variety of assignments, both routine and unexpected. Her work touched every aspect of Fish and Game's mission, and included teaching students to fish, staffing check stations, conducting creel surveys, and monitoring game bird populations, among other tasks. But Ferguson was noted most for her work in raptor rehabilitation, a critical service for regional wildlife managers and a full-time endeavor. In performing these services, she donated 437 personal vehicle miles and 112 hours in 2007, bringing her total contribution to 1,477 hours since becoming a reservist in 1995. Other reservists were recognized for last year's contribution as well as their ongoing participation. Last year, seven of them joined Ferguson in donating more than 100 hours each to the Fish and Game mission. These included: Warren Wallace, 117 hours; Clorinda McBurney, 151 hours; Cloyce Edwards, 184 hours; Ivan Allred, 310 hours; Lanny Ames, 408 hours; Earl Wise, 521 hours; and Gene Wright, 527 hours. Allred and Wright surpassed their 500 and 5,000 hour career milestones, respectively. Today 34 wildlife reservists are active with Fish and Game in the Magic Valley Region. In 2007, they donated 6,800 personal vehicle miles and 2,625 hours to help preserve, protect, and perpetuate Idaho's fish and wildlife resources. Their work affected every aspect of Fish and Game's regional operations: Wildlife, fisheries, habitat, enforcement, education, administration, and maintenance. Were it not for their sincere interest in fish and wildlife and their desire to "give something back," many important projects simply would not be completed. Fish and Game is looking for volunteers in all portions of the Magic Valley, and especially the Wood River area, who would be interested in the program. Please contact Ed Papenberg between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday or Friday, in the Jerome office at 324-4359, if you would like more information about becoming a wildlife reservist with the Idaho Fish and Game.