Seized Game Donated to Charity

Every year, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game seizes various types of unlawfully taken wildlife that is often donated to charity. After each case goes through the court system, and with the magistrate's approval, IDFG donates the wild game meat to charity organizations to be distributed to the needy. In Clearwater County alone this fall, eight deer and five elk have been given to charity. Local food banks, church groups and helping hand organizations typically assist in distributing the meat. The donations usually increase during the holiday months, allowing some to have more food on the table during Thanksgiving and Christmas. To receive game meat, and individual must qualify as indigent and sign a waiver acknowledging that they understand that the meat is non-inspected wild game. Local food banks are the contact for donated wild game.