Survey Shows Support for Access Program

Respondents in an Idaho Fish and Game Internet survey favor trying to increase access to hunt and fish on private lands and a majority like the proposal to fund access with big game tag lottery proceeds. The survey does not claim to be scientific. The 257 respondents chose to fill out the survey form posted on the department's web site. That there is a problem with adequate access for hunters and anglers to private lands in Idaho, 220 agree. Only 35 said access is adequate. To the question "Which type of hunting or fishing opportunity would you like to have more access to, on or across private land in Idaho?" responses were widely scattered. The highest number (41) was for big game hunting, second highest was 36 for upland game, 36 for stream fishing, 28 for waterfowl, 27 for turkey, 21 for salmon/steelhead fishing, and 14 for lake/reservoir fishing. Other activities drew one vote each. "Do you believe a program that compensates private landowners who allow sportsman's access for hunting and fishing is a good idea for Idaho?" A majority of 163 do believe that while 49 do not and 45 were uncertain. On options for funding, 140 went with the idea of raising money through the sale of lottery tickets for big game tags but 66 favored a special habitat fee and 18 would prefer raising license fees. None of the above was favored by 32. Asked if license fees were to be increased to cover access costs what they would be willing to pay, 154 respondents said they just do not support use of license fees, but 38 would pay $5; 27 would pay $10; and 19 would go for $20 while 19 remain uncertain. If a special habitat fee were the chosen method, 102 still said they are not in support while 48 went for the $10 option, 41 for a $20 fee and 38 for $5 with 27 not certain what they would pay. The Internet survey results are mirrored fairly closely by the responses from Idahoans attending public meetings and open houses since the question was brought to the Idaho citizenry. The access program plan was developed by the Fish and Game Advisory Committee, made up of six members appointed by the Fish and Game director and six by the Department of Agriculture director.