Input Sought on Upland & Trapping Regulations

IDAHO FALLS - Unlike big game regulations that are revisited on an annual basis, the regulations for upland game in Idaho are managed on a two-year cycle. Right now, IDFG is at the stage in the process where they are looking for input from the public for the regulations that will cover from 2006-2007 and 2007-2008 seasons. Thanks to the magic of the Internet, sportsmen can visit IDFG's website to review proposals and post comments at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/apps/surveys/uplandgame For those looking to talk with a biologist, that avenue still exists in a number of ways. According to Regional Wildlife Manager Daryl Meints, "There are a number of different proposals IDFG is looking for comments on. Most have to do with trying to make seasons more consistent, one looks at trying to make wildlife management areas safer places to hunt." The proposals that affect the Upper Snake Region are: 1) Having upland game hunters on Department owned Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) wear hunter orange. 2) Aligning the ending of quail, chukar and gray partridge seasons to January 31. 3) Align the opening dates of beaver and otter seasons to October 22. 4) Aligning of furbearer hunting hours with big game hours, one-half hour before sunrise and one-half hour after sunset. 5) Increasing beaver populations on Tex Creek WMA in order to improve riparian habitat and provide benefits to mule deer as part of Department's Mule Deer Initiative (MDI). Individuals looking to learn more before making comments can contact a wildlife biologist at the Idaho Falls office by dialing 208-525-7290 or stopping by the new regional headquarters building located in the St. Leon Business Park at 4279 Commerce Circle in Idaho Falls. Individuals with special needs can also make contact through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377-3529(TDD) or by e-mailing dmeints@idfg.idaho.gov. Proposals can be viewed and comments posted by going to IDFG's Internet site at: fishandgame.idaho.gov Deadline for all forms of input is Monday, April 24.