Idfg Calling For Comments On Proposed Changes To Next Fall's Early Goose And Crane Seasons

IDAHO FALLS - While the Upper Snake Region or even the State of Idaho may not qualify as a Mecca for waterfowl hunters, the state does see its fair share of migratory waterfowl and it is looking for public comment on how to manage early goose and sandhill crane controlled hunts. Regional Wildlife Bureau staff will be holding an open house all day on May 1, at the regional office in Idaho Falls, to meet with the public and take comments. Right now, because local numbers of pre-season geese remain tolerable, no early controlled hunts are being proposed in the Upper Snake. According to Regional Wildlife Manager Daryl Meints, "Local goose numbers are stable, and they are actually still below population objectives." In the Clearwater Region, goose numbers become problematic before the opening of the general season and continued early hunts are being proposed. When it comes to management of sandhill cranes to help alleviate conflicts with agriculture caused when the big birds gather in large numbers to stage before heading south, controlled hunts have been in place for the last five years. The number of birds that can be harvested is based on a figure mandated by the Pacific Flyway Council. Idaho's allocation for 2001 was 273 birds, last year the number dropped to 213. To reach this last number, 413 permits were allocated last year, with 92% actually being sold. A total of 194 birds were taken last year. Because of drought conditions the 2003 allocation is as been decreased 20% to 171. While the Upper Snake Region is proposing no changes with the actual season structure, a 20% reduction in the number of permits offered has been proposed. This would allow for 60 permits in Teton County and 60 in Fremont County. Anyone who would like to comment on these proposed changes or any other facet of early goose and sandhill crane hunts is invited to make comment at the IDFG regional office on Thursday, May 1. The office will be open for comment from 8 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting Daryl Meints at the Idaho Department of Fish & Game at 525-7290 or through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377-3529(TDD). Comments can also be sent via E-mail to dmeints@idfg.state.id.us. The deadline for all comments is Friday, May 2 at 5:00 P.M.