Public Comment Sought on Andrus WMA Draft Management Plan

From chukar hunting to elk hunting, hiking to fishing, Cecil D. Andrus Wildlife Management Area (WMA) offers outdoor recreation for a wide variety of outdoor enthusiasts. Those recreational users now have the opportunity to shape management activities at the WMA. The Cecil D. Andrus Wildlife Management Area (WMA) Draft Management Plan is currently available for review on line at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov, and the public is invited to review and comment on the plan electronically. All comments received will be reviewed and considered for incorporation into the final management plan where applicable. Formerly a working cattle ranch, the lands that became Andrus WMA were donated to Fish and Game by the Mellon Foundation for the purpose of wildlife conservation. These lands provide critical deer and elk winter range along the face of Brownlee Reservoir, and year-round habitat for upland game birds and many other wildlife species. The Draft Management Plan is the result of efforts begun when Andrus WMA was acquired by Fish and Game. A working committee representing a range of hunting, conservation and recreation organizations, local landowners, and county officials was formed to provide public input in the development of management direction and priorities for the area. Public meetings were also held at that time to collect and incorporate additional public input during the early stages of plan development. Ultimately, the draft management plan will serve as a long-term guide for general management direction at Andrus WMA. Specific tasks associated with the daily management of the area are beyond the scope of the plan and are not incorporated within it. Once finalized, the plan will receive periodic review to incorporate changes in direction and use, and new management knowledge and techniques.