IDFG Seeking Comments For Early Goose Season

LEWISTON - Individuals who would like to provide input into development of this season's early goose hunting rules are encouraged to attend an open house meeting to be held on Thursday, May 1 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Idaho Department of Fish and Game office, 1540 Warner Ave. in Lewiston. Wildlife biologists will be on hand to take public input and discuss proposals. Options include holding an early season for 7 days between September 1 and 15, or adding the 7 days to the general season to allow an opener as early as September 27, for a total of 107 days. Initially developed in response to community concerns of crop damage, air flight safety, water quality and sanitation of popular recreational areas, the early hunts are one of several tools designed to reduce conflicts with the ever-increasing local Canada goose populations. A liberalized federal hunting framework has allowed new options to be considered this year. Hunters unable to attend can contact regional wildlife personnel at 799-5010, or send written comments to the above address by Tuesday, May 6 at 5:00 p.m. All comments will go to the Idaho Fish and Game Commission for consideration at their May meeting. Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting IDFG prior to the meeting.