The Idaho Department of Fish and Game will host an upland, turkey, and furbearer public open house from 3-9 p.m. January 7, 2010, at the Magic Valley Region Fish and Game office in Jerome.
This open house will coincide with the Sportsmen's Chili Feed and Cook-off scheduled for the same evening.
"It will be a great opportunity for people to come and comment on proposed season changes and participate in the Chili Feed and Cook-off," said Randy Smith, regional fish and game wildlife manager.
Proposed changes include:
- Changing the starting time of the pheasant season opener to begin a half hour before sunrise, instead of noon.
- Requiring steel shot for pheasants on wildlife management areas where pheasants are stocked.
- Eliminating a beaver trapping closure in Lincoln County.
While looking over the statewide upland proposals, sportsmen are invited to bring their favorite chili or just come and try the different flavors on for size.
"It is a great event," said Jerome Hansen, Fish and Game regional supervisor. "Last year we had over 20 chili entries, and more than 60 sportsmen attended.
"Doug Palmer won the cook off with his twist on duck chili, but there were several others nipping at his heels."
After the feed, Fish and Game staff members will provide updates on the past year's activities and answer questions about Magic Valley fishing and hunting opportunities.
If you are unable to attend one the meetings but would like to provide input on the proposals, you may contact Fish and Game at 324-4350 or go on-line to fishandgame.idaho.gov to complete the statewide season setting survey.
Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting the Idaho Department of Fish and Game directly at 208-324-4359 or through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377-2529 (TDD).
