When a hunter sets a trap close to a public hiking trail, they don’t have to let trail users know. Some wildlife advocates say that’s dangerous for pets and kids, but trappers say it's logistically impossible to mark each hunting device. Now, Idaho Fish and Game may weigh in.
Four wildlife advocacy groups filed a petition in February, asking the state agency to consider requirements for posted signs in public areas where trappers have animal traps or snares. Currently, traps can be as close as 10 feet from trails and 300 feet from campgrounds. Fish and Game has signs for trappers to post near their traps but as a courtesy. Its use is currently voluntary. The agency will decide during its May 14th teleconference whether or not to take up the issue. A seven-day public comment period ends May 6th at midnight.
“It is about whether or not the commission should respond to a petition they have received," said Sharon Kiefer with Idaho Fish and Game. "That is why we do have a shorter time frame for public comment.”
She said more than 200 people have commented so far. Idaho Trappers Association President, Rusty Kramer said trappers have mobilized against the issue because they lay hundreds of traps and marking them would be too hard. Signs could also increase the chance of theft or vandalism.
Public Comment on the issue may be submitted by email only at signsneartraps@idfg.idaho.gov.
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