As residents of a subdivision in Blaine County continue feeding elk, the county is taking them to court over the rule violations.
A herd of around 70 elk descended on the Golden Eagle Ranch development north of Hailey in December. Driven to lower elevations by the harsh winter weather, the residents of the development said the animals were eating everything from patio furniture to decorative wreaths.
After hearing about increased emergency feeding efforts on the part of Idaho Fish and Game, some residents of the subdivision started feeding the animals.
The Idaho Mountain Express says the lawsuit filed by Blaine County lists five people as suspected elk feeders but also leaves the door open for more to be added by naming fictive defendants John and Jane Doe as placeholders.
Since Golden Eagle Ranch is located in a Wildlife Overlay District, it’s illegal to give food to wild animals. Blaine County wants a permanent injunction against feeding big game and money to recoup the costs of enforcement and bringing the suit.
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