Waterfowl Season Open House Slated

Waterfowl hunters have a chance to comment on proposed 2001-2002 duck and goose seasons and other waterfowl-related proposals during two upcoming open houses hosted by Idaho Fish and Game. On Friday, August 3, from noon to 6:00 pm, Fish and Game personnel will be on hand to visit with the public at both the McCall Fish and Game office and the Nampa Fish and Game office. The open house format allows visitors to attend anytime during the afternoon/evening session. Call 634-8137 (McCall) or 465-8465 (Nampa) for more information. Fish and Game's waterfowl season proposal remains unchanged from last year, with a 107-day duck season and a 100-day goose season. "We're recommending that both seasons begin on October 6, with short splits midway through the season, with an ending date for both seasons of January 20, 2002," Fish and Game wildlife manager Jeff Rohlman noted. Fish and Game is also seeking public comment on three waterfowl-related proposals. "We'd like to get people's thoughts on ending the goose hunting closure in Hell's Canyon," Rohlman said. "Goose numbers are doing well there, and we have no biological reason for maintaining that hunting closure." Drought conditions this year do not bode well for duck numbers and future duck hunting seasons. "We're trying to get ahead of the game by collecting input on future waterfowl seasons, not simply this year's," Rohlman said. "If future seasons are shortened, for whatever reason, we'd like to know if duck hunters prefer a later opening date, a longer split in the season, or an earlier closure." Finally, the department is seeking comment on the use of "motoduck" devices. "There is a growing concern among some waterfowlers that these devices are too effective at bringing ducks to the decoys," Rohlman explained. "We'd like to gather additional public comment regarding these devices and pass that information along to the Fish and Game Commission for their review and consideration."