Open Houses to Discuss Draft Fish Management Plan

Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) has scheduled a series of open house meetings for public review and comment on the draft five-year fisheries management plan for 2001 through 2005. The draft plan details both statewide and drainage-specific management programs, and sets forth major fisheries management direction and budgetary priorities. The draft was developed after sampling public opinion with an angler opinion survey mailed to 10,800 resident anglers and 1,200 nonresident anglers as well as input from regional scoping meetings held earlier this year. The open houses are from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. in the following locations: OROFINO: December 18, Veterans of Foreign War Hall GRANGEVILLE: December 19, Senior Citizens Center MOSCOW: December 20, Latah County Fairground Exhibit Building LEWISTON: December 21, Community Center, 1424 Main The public can also comment electronically by downloading the draft plan from the department website under "What's New" at www.state.id.us/fishgame. All written comments will be compiled and a final plan will be presented for IDFG Commission approval in early 2001. Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting Mike Demick at the Idaho Department of Fish and Game at 208-799-5010.