IDGF Offers Reward For Information On Killing Of Grizzly Bear

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) is offering a reward for information leading to the arrest and of those involved in the shooting death of an adult grizzly bear in extreme northern Idaho in the spring of 2004. The fresh remains of the grizzly were found by a hunter near Hughes Meadows during the spring black bear season. Hughes Meadows is located in Boundary County Idaho, 3 miles east of the Washington state line and 9 miles south of the US/Canada border. The hunter reported the incident to local conservation officers, who have been investigating the case. Additional information is needed to bring the case to completion. Grizzlies are classified as an endangered species within the Selkirk Mountains of Idaho and Washington and are protected by both state and federal laws. According to Conservation Officer and Grizzly Bear Education Specialist Brian Johnson, "The illegal shooting of grizzlies is by far the leading cause of death for the big bears, and remains one of the greatest challenges to the recovery of a healthy grizzly population in the Selkirk Mountains." If you have any information concerning a grizzly bear poaching in Idaho, please contact: Conservation Officer Brian Johnson (208) 267-4085, Conservation Officer Rob Soumas (208) 448-2302, the IDFG Panhandle Region Office (208) 769-1414, or the Citizens Against Poaching Hot Line 1-800-632-5999. Callers may remain anonymous.