IDFG Hosts Scoping Meetings To Sound Out Public On Proposed 2002/2003 Fishing Regulations

IDAHO FALLS - It's awfully hard to catch fish unless you put a hook in the water and it's equally hard to judge public sentiment unless you cast about for opinions. In order to net public input, IDFG is holding a series of scoping meeting to find out what anglers would like to see in the next set of two-year fishing regulations. Because it is early in the regulation setting process not a lot of ideas are out on the table, but there a few major questions being raised by certain aspects of the angling community. According to Regional Fisheries Manager Mark Gamblin, "We have been approached about the idea of placing slot limits on the Macks Inn stretch of the Henrys Fork and on the Big Lost below Mackay Dam. We want to know how other anglers feel about these ideas." Comments collected from the public at these scoping meetings will be used by Department biologists to craft final proposed regulation changes that the public will have a chance to comment on at meetings later in the year. The public is encouraged to attend any of the meetings and make comments about proposals being recommended or other fishing related topics. Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting Mark Gamblin 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 mgamblin@idfg.state.id.us. Deadline for comments is 5:00 P.M. on Wednesday, June 6, 2001. FISH REGULATIONS SCOPING MEETING SCHEDULE Mon, May 14 Idaho Falls IDFG Regional Office 1515 Lincoln Road Tues, May 15 St. Anthony Fremont Cty Courthouse 151 W. 1st Ave. Thurs, May 17 Mackay Mackay Jr/Sr High School 400 Spruce Street