Hunters Reminded To Properly Dispose Of Game Waste

LEWISTON - - With big game rifle season nearly underway, hunters that butcher their own game are encouraged to dispose of their wastes properly. Authorities at the Nez Perce County Solid Waste Station in Lewiston remind hunters that proper disposal of game wastes is very simple. Hunters can place their game waste in a good heavy bag, seal it, and place in their garbage can. The weekly garbage service will then dispose of the waste free of charge. Hunters can also haul their bagged game waste to the transfer station located at 275 O'Conner Road in Lewiston. Operating hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. The Latah County Solid Waste Department and the rural incorporated cities also provide four bulky waste sites that accept animal and game wastes. The Transfer Station, located five miles east of Moscow on Highway 8 is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The communities of Deary, Genesee, and Juliaetta each have a site that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on alternating Saturdays. The Potlatch site is open four Saturdays a month. Operating hours for all sites are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Call 882-8580 Ext. 344 or 410 for schedule). The sites are located as follows: Deary, behind the elevators on Line street; Genesee, south of Chestnut street on Oak street near City shop and Union Warehouse; Juliaetta, turn south off Main onto Third Street, go to the railroad tracks and turn left; Potlatch, 1/2 mile east of the Potlatch "Y" on Highway 6. According to Mark Hill, District Conservation Officer based in Lewiston, the illegal dumping of animal remains is a common occurrence around the outskirts of Lewiston, especially during the hunting season. "Some of the dumped animals are often taken unlawfully and very often wasted," he warned. "The public can help solve the problem by reporting any suspicious activity, especially vehicle license numbers, to law enforcement authorities." According to Idaho law, parts of any game animal, bird, or fish including bones, skin and entrails are considered litter when improperly disposed of. Placing these substances along public roadways and private property is a misdemeanor. Violations are punishable by imprisonment not exceeding six months, or by a fine not exceeding three hundred dollars, or both.