Public Comments Sought For 2002-2003 Upland Game Seasons

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game will host an open house meeting to collect public comments on proposed recommendations to the 2002-2003 upland game bird, furbearer and falconry season regulations. The open house will be held Tuesday, April 9 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Clearwater Region office located at 1540 Warner Avenue in Lewiston. Proposed recommendations include: expanding the Nez Perce County early goose season to include all of the county during the September 7 through 13 hunt; close the pygmy rabbit season; increase pheasant bag and possession limits to 3 and 6 respectively for youth pheasant hunt. There are several options for changes to the Sage and Sharp-tailed grouse seasons as well. No changes are proposed for falconry, crow, chukar and gray partridge, cottontail rabbit and snowshoe hare. Proposed changes to furbearer seasons were not available at press time. Fish and Game biologists will be present during the open house to answer questions about the proposed regulations. All comments will be forwarded to the Idaho Fish and Game Commission for consideration prior to setting the regulations. Persons unable to attend the open house may call 799-5010 or send comments to Jay Crenshaw, Wildlife Manager, 1540 Warner Ave., Lewiston, ID 83501.