Parts of the Boise River Wildlife Management Area were closed earlier this year to protect wintering mule deer and elk. The closure included sections of land burned during the Table Rock and Mile Marker 14 wildfires last summer. But May 1, those popular trails in the foothills are expected to reopen.
Idaho Fish and Game officials say most of the big game in the area have moved to higher elevations now. But according to the Idaho Statesman, the closure didn’t stop people from recreating there. Fish and Game tracked almost 12,000 visits since those trails were closed in January.
The wildlife management area was set aside to protect winter habitat, especially in light of continued development on the east side of Boise. Fish and Game says up to 7,000 mule deer migrate there for food during harsh mountain winters.
Find reporter Frankie Barnhill on Twitter @FABarnhill
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