IDFG To Hold Scoping Meeting For Next Years Big Game Hunting Regulations

IDAHO FALLS - Just as sure as the changing of the seasons, so to is the annual changing of hunting regulations. Because nothing in nature ever stays the same for long, biologists must not only constantly monitor wildlife, but also adapt their management strategies to account for changes in habitat conditions and shifts in both wildlife and human populations. To help get started heading in the right direction, IDFG will be holding a series of three scoping meetings in the Upper Snake Region in late January. According to Regional Conservation Educator Gregg Losinski, "This first round of scoping meetings is intended to sound out the public on ideas for how they might like to see future big game issue addressed". These scoping meetings are the first chance that sportsmen will have to let their opinions be heard, but certainly not the last. A second round of meetings are set for late February in the same three locations to present to sportsmen proposals created from response to the first set of meetings. A final meeting will be held in spring to let sportsmen know the final outcome of the regulation setting process. These follow-up meetings were instituted statewide two years ago and were positively received by sportsmen. SCOPING MEETING SCHEDULE - All meetings start at 7:00 PM Mon., Jan. 27 Idaho Falls Eastern Idaho Technical College Tues., Jan. 28 Rexburg Madison County Middle School Wed., Jan. 29 Arco Arco Elementary School Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting Justin Naderman at the Idaho Department of Fish & Game at 525-7290 or through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377-3529(TDD). Individuals not able to attend, but wishing to comment may do so via E-mail at jnaderman@idfg.state.id.us or by regular mail to IDFG /1515 Lincoln Rd. in Idaho Falls, Idaho 83401. The deadline for all comments is 5:00 P.M. on January 31, 2003.