IDFG To Host Big Game Open Houses Across Region During First Week Of March

IDAHO FALLS - After meeting with the public both regionally and statewide, wildlife biologists are now ready to present to the public proposed big game regulation changes for the upcoming seasons. Regionally, biologists held scoping meetings earlier this winter in Idaho Falls, Rexburg, and Arco; now they are ready to return to those towns and present a proposed product developed by combining the wide rage of input provided. In addition to meeting with the public, IDFG staff has been conducting aerial surveys of various wintering populations of deer and elk across the region. While it is practically impossible because of monetary and personnel constraints to canvas the entire region, based on historical data biologists are able to survey sub-units and gain a useful picture of how various populations are faring overall. According to Regional Wildlife Manager Daryl Meints, "We are going to be presenting proposals that will seek to increase deer hunting opportunity. This means allowing hunters to be able to hunt during a more favorable time of the year, such as late October." In regards to elk, Meints had to say, "In some areas we actually have more elk than the habitat can support. This means we'll be proposing to increase cow elk hunting opportunity in some places." Sportsmen that would like to learn more about these proposals and provide comments should plan on attending one of the open house to be held in the region. OPEN HOUSE SCHEDULE - All meetings start at 7:00 PM

Tuesday, March 2	Arco	Arco Elementary School
Wednesday, March 3	Idaho Falls	IDFG Office
Thursday, March 4	Rexburg	Madison Middle School

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). Individuals not able to attend, but wishing to comment may do so via E-mail at dmeints@idfg.state.id.us or by regular mail to IDFG /4279 Commerce Circle in Idaho Falls, Idaho 83401. The deadline for all comments is 5:00 P.M. on March 10, 2004.