Space Limited for the Year's Last Wolf Trapper Workshop

The workshop on Saturday, September 15, will be the last opportunity in the Upper Snake Region to take the mandatory wolf trapper education course for the remainder of this year. Recent changes in Idaho Department Fish Game rules now make it possible for wolves to be trapped by individuals who have completed a Fish and Game sponsored course. Unlike hunter and bowhunter education, which are mandatory for anyone born after January 1, 1975, regular trapper education has been offered on a voluntary basis for a number of years, but it does not fulfill the requirement to trap wolves. Last season was the first opportunity that trappers in Idaho had a chance to test their skills against wolves. So far more than 1,000 trappers statewide have taken the required workshop. At the end of this year's season, 124 wolves had been trapped, not including those as part of management actions. An additional 255 were taken through traditional hunting methods. Trapping of wolves is restricted to certain areas in the central and northern part of the state within certain dates. Details are listed in the big game rules. Because the course is hands-on, it is limited to 25 spaces. The first portion of the course will be in the classroom and the second portion will be in the field. Pre-registration is required. Those wanting to participate must register in advance at the Fish and Game regional office, 4279 Commerce Circle, Idaho Falls. Space is on a first come basis and participants must pay $8 at the time of registration. In addition to practical considerations regarding wolf trapping, trappers will also be exposed to the ethics and trapping etiquette that should be considered along with the basic regulations. The workshop will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chester Wetlands segment of the Sand Creek Wildlife Management Area. Participants will need to bring their own lunches. For information call 208-525-7290.