Public Meeting Planned on Trophy, Equipment Rules

The Upper Snake Region of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game is looking for public comments on moose, mountain goat and bighorn sheep recommendations for the 2007 and 2008 hunting seasons. ÒOnly a few changes are being considered after substantial changes where made two years ago,Ó regional wildlife manager Daryl Meints said. Trophy species regulations are set once every two years. Fish and Game is considering restoring some moose hunting in Unit 58 after being closed for two years. After summer mountain goat surveys in Units 67 and 51, some additional opportunities may be provided in Unit 67, while a reduction in permits may be warranted in Unit 51. Additional opportunity is being considered for bighorn sheep in hunt area 37 which includes parts of units 50 and 51. The Department also seeks public comment about eliminating the three-quarter curl rule for bighorn sheep hunts and change to any ram. Most western states that have adopted this change, have seen little to no effect on wild sheep populations. The Idaho Fish and Game Commission has asked the department to seek public comments on big game hunting equipment restrictions. Most restrictions for archery, muzzleloader and centerfire rifles were adopted by the commission in 1991. Many changes in equipment technology and availability have occurred since that time. The department has been asked to review the restrictions, including lighted reticles ÒRed DotÓ scopes, maximum caliber restriction on centerfire rifles, bow let-off, arrow weight and length, traditional muzzleloader definition, muzzleloader opportunity along with caliber and projectiles. The public meeting starts at 7 p.m. Thursday, December 14, in the conference room at the Idaho Falls Fish and Game office at 4279 Commerce Circle, Idaho Falls. Anyone unable to attend the meeting is welcome to stop by the office and talk with a biologist and fill out a comment sheet. Comments also may be sent to dmeints@idfg.idaho.gov. All comments are due by close of business Monday, December 18. Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting Daryl Meints, at Fish and Game at 525-7290, or through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377-3529(TDD).