Reward Offered on Geese Wasting Case

Two southeast Idaho residents have donated $1,000 in reward money to Citizens Against Poaching in an effort to draw out information regarding the recent wasting of 46 geese in Soda Springs. Greg Maag of Pocatello and Wayne Taysom of McCammon stepped forward with their donations after learning of the incident. "This time of year we too often see the heinous, illegal acts that people commit against our wildlife resource, and then we are quickly reminded of how wonderful people in southeast Idaho are when two individuals like Maag and Taysom selflessly step forward to help," said Jennifer Jackson, regional conservation educator for Fish and Game's southeast region. On October 5, 46 geese were found in three Dumpsters along East 1st South near City Park in Soda Springs. The geese had apparently been shot on October 4. The geese were most likely shot over decoys in grain fields or from boats on or around Blackfoot Reservoir, though the exact location is unknown. Officials suspect that several people were involved. After an investigation, Fish and Game officers determined that the geese were unsalvageable. Landowners who had requests from large parties for permission to hunt over the weekend are encouraged to provide any information. Anyone with information about this incident may contact Conservation Officer Brandon Chamberlin at 339-3520 or the Fish and Game regional office at 232-4703. Or call the Citizens Against Poaching hotline at 1-800-632-5999; callers may remain anonymous.