JANUARY TOWN HALL
On January 2, 2024, the Idaho Legislative Sportsmen Caucus met for their first meeting in the new year. This was also the first meeting starting at 6:00 PM as we head into the 2024 Idaho Legislative Session. Benn Brocksome kicked off the meeting by reminding the members to renew their licenses, fill out their hunter reports, and ensure all other items are squared away for the new year and upcoming seasons.
Troy Elmore, Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR), reviewed the Idaho Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council project recommendations sent to Governor Little. Governor Little will make the final recommendation to the Idaho Parks and Recreation Board for the $5 million Outdoor Recreation Fund.
Idaho Parks and Recreation – East Fork Rock: $1M
Idaho Parks and Recreation – Henry’s Lake: $750,000
Idaho Parks and Recreation – Horsethief Reservoir: $2M
Idaho For All: $112,500
Valley County Parks and Recreation – Boulder Lake Road: $250,000
Selway Bitterroot Frank Church Foundation – Trail Restoration: $40,994
Payette Land Trust – White Pine Heights: $300,000
Eastern Idaho Grazing Association – Cooperative Management Recreation Area: $300,000
He spoke about the need for the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Campaign with a $200,000 request; however, the Council did hold off on funding this until the next meeting to see if the Idaho Legislature or other entities appropriate funds to the quagga mussels.
Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) Director Jim Fredricks spoke on the lack of snow being very helpful this year for winter feedings. He then spoke on the new shed hunting session, which will remain closed in the eastern parts of the state and reopen statewide on March 15, 2024, in conjunction with the opening of spring turkey season. IDFG has no proposed legislation in the upcoming session but will see big game hunting muzzleloaders and hound hunting rules before the Legislature. Over the next rulemaking season 2024-25: motorized hunting, thermal binoculars, and more will be taken up. IDFG also stated that no additional Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) recordings have been found outside of unit fourteen (14) and the other reporting from last month. IDFG will also be redoing the black bear survey in the coming weeks and urged folks to be involved in the process.
Rep. Raymond spoke on his legislation to improve range land. Rep. Petzke spoke on his Fair Chase legislation, which has a slight change after discussion with the press association. Chairman Burtenshaw requested a presentation from IDFG on salmon eggs and the Department’s experience with egg boxes in the next town hall meeting in February. He is also concerned about the quagga muscle issue, urging for more work to control the issue in a timely manner to prevent any further impact on the spread of these fast-moving invasive species.
Idaho Sportsmen wrapped up the meeting by allowing members to ask questions and make comments. Mr. Brocksome reminded the group of Idaho Sportsmen’s work during the session to track legislation, rules, and budgets in natural resource-related areas. He also welcomed conversations around any issues individuals are considering legislation on to ensure the best policy for Idahoans is made.
