IDFG Hosts Open House To Gather Input On Upcoming Waterfowl Seasons

IDAHO FALLS - When it comes to the setting of waterfowl seasons a host of agencies and even countries are involved in the process. Decisions must be made that will be fair to both sportsmen and migrating waterfowl. The Idaho Department of Fish & Game (IDFG) will be hosting an open house at the regional office at 1515 Lincoln Road in Idaho Falls from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Monday, August 11 to hear what sportsmen have to say about duck & goose hunting. In the case of Idaho, the Pacific Flyway Council is responsible for determining the general limits for each species and the maximum days that each species can be hunted. It is then up to state wildlife agencies to put flesh on skeleton by way of actual dates and season lengths. Currently, a 107-day duck season has been recommended and IDFG is seeking comments on how to structure the waterfowl seasons. The first possible opening day is September 27 and the latest possible day is January 25. Two of the 107 days will be set-aside for the annual youth hunts. The Idaho Fish & Game Commission will then review the proposed seasons for approval or modification. 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). E-mails comments can also be sent to dmeints@idfg.state.id.us. The deadline for all comments is 5:00 P.M. on August 11, 2003.