Public's Help Sought in Moose Poaching Case

Fish and Game is asking for help from the public with the poaching of a bull moose, shot and left to waste in a grassy meadow near Deadwood Reservoir sometime around October 15. The moose carcass was discovered near the mouth of Goat Creek on the Deadwood River, just north of Deadwood Reservoir. Based on carcass decomposition, Fish and Game conservation officer Ben Cadwallader estimates the animal was shot and left during the first week of elk season in the Sawtooth Zone. There is no moose season in the area where the animal was found. The moose was intact when discovered; most poaching cases involve the removal of choice pieces of meat or antlers. Cadwallader collected evidence at the scene, but would like to talk to any other hunters who might have been camping in the area. "There was a large hunting campsite directly across the river from where the moose was found," Cadwallader said. "I'd particularly like to visit with these folks about this case." Citizens Against Poaching is offering a reward for information in the case and callers may remain anonymous. Anyone with information may contact the hotline at 1-800-632-5999, 24 hours a day. Or they may contact Fish and Game.