Outdoors briefs for February 3, 2011

'State of the Lake' meeting Feb. 17

The Lake Pend Oreille Fishery Recovery Task Force and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game have scheduled an informational "State of the Lake" public meeting from 6:30-9 p.m. Feb. 17 at the Ponderay Events Center by the Bonner Mall north of Sandpoint.

Topics of discussion include the status of fish populations in Lake Pend Oreille; and, progress of the fishery recovery effort.

Presentations will summarize the results of the 2010 predator removal efforts, including lake trout netting, telemetry and the Angler Incentive Program.

In addition, biologists will provide updates on status of kokanee and bull trout populations.

The meeting is open to the public. Following the presentations, there will be a question and answer session as well as time for informal discussion after the meeting.

Information: 769-1414

Forest road safety meeting Feb. 9

ST. MARIES - The St. Joe Ranger District will hold a public meeting to discuss efforts to improve public safety on National Forest roads.

Idaho law allows underage, unlicensed OHV riders on National Forest roads.

"This situation has led the Forest Service throughout Idaho to undertake a safety review of their road systems to identify road segments that may require additional safety measures," according to a press release.

The Idaho Panhandle National Forest has more than 4,000 miles of roads that are open to the public. Of those, 151 miles may require additional safety measures, including 28 in the St. Joe Ranger District.

Safety measures range from reduced speed limits, brush removal for improved visibility, warning signs, speed bumps or other minor engineering changes.

The open house will be 6:30 p.m. Feb. 9 in the downstairs conference room of the Federal Building.