IDFG Hosts 2nd Round Of Scoping Meetings

IDAHO FALLS - Last May, IDFG held a series of public open houses to help collect ideas from anglers about proposed changes for the next set of biennial fishing regulations. Now, the Department is heading back out to speak with the public about proposed regulations drafted in response to comments from the earlier meetings. One major change the Department is seeking comment on is the creation of "Family Fishing Waters." According to newly appointed Upper Snake Regional Fishery Manager, Jim Fredricks; "Family fishing waters are designed to provide areas where beginning anglers, parents, or any other anglers who get frustrated with complex regulations can go to fish." While the concept is being proposed statewide, each region will be able to designate specific waters to be included in the program. "We are not intending to use this regulation where it would jeopardize an existing high quality fishery. Instead, we are trying to direct anglers to waters that are already managed with fairly simple regulations." said Fredricks. In the Upper Snake Region the waters being proposed under this plan include: Roberts Gravel Pond, Trail Creek Pond, Rexburg City Ponds, Birch Creek, Mackay Reservoir, Ashton Reservoir, Island Park Reservoir, Palisades Reservoir, Beaver Creek, Horseshoe Lake, East Harriman Fish Pond, and a portion of the Henrys Fork from McCrea's Bridge upstream to the Macks Inn Bridge. Other slight changes in limits are being proposed for these areas as well. According to Fredricks, "There is a legitimate concern that many anglers, particularly novice anglers, are dissuaded from fishing because of complex rules and regulations. I think they are a great concept as long as they are not viewed as "free-for-all" fisheries that minimize the importance of fish identification, seasons, and limits." Details of the proposed changes will be available at all meetings. The public is encouraged to attend any of the meetings and make comments about proposals being recommended. Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting Jim Fredricks at the Idaho Department of Fish & Game at 525-7290 or through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377-3529(TDD). Individuals may also send comments via e-mail to jfredric@idfg.state.id.us. Deadline for comments is 5:00 P.M. on Friday, 24, 2001. FISH REGULATIONS SCOPING MEETING SCHEDULE MEETINGS START 7:00 P.M. Tues, August 21 St. Anthony Fremont County Courthouse 151 W. 1st Ave. Wed, August 22 Idaho Falls IDFG Regional Office 1515 Lincoln Road Thurs, August 23 Mackay Mackay High School 400 Spruce Street