Some private lands closed to hunting due to fire risk

In response to extreme fire danger and strained fire suppression resources in North Idaho, Idaho Department of Fish and Game’s corporate partners have implemented fire-related closures or restrictions on private lands enrolled in the Large Tracts Access Program.

The North Idaho Timber Group, which includes Manulife Investment Management Timberland and Agriculture, Molpus Woodlands Group and Stimson Lumber Company lands in North Idaho, closed all public roads and walk-in access Wednesday until further notice.

“While this type of restriction is not necessary during most fire seasons, this year is extraordinary in terms of wildfire risk for Idaho and all neighboring western states,” Peter Stegner said in a statement on behalf of the North Idaho Timber Group. “This precautionary closure is in the best interests of the community and the environment, and we appreciate everyone’s cooperation with this request during these highly unusual times.”

According to the contracts between Fish and Game and Large Tracts Program participants, private land managers reserve the right to temporarily close specific lands for management purposes like active forestry operations, high fire danger or other management needs. When access has to be restricted for a period of time, the lease payments to program participants are adjusted accordingly.

The only Large Tracts Program closure imminent is for lands under the North Idaho Timber Group umbrella. Of course, that could change as the fire season continues. Hunters and anglers can stay abreast of current restrictions and closures on Large Tracts properties by visiting Fish and Game’s Fire Information webpage at idfg.idaho.gov.

In regard to the North Idaho Timber Group announcement, it is impossible to say in the middle of a volatile fire season when the closure may end. Hunters and anglers need to remember that these are private, working timberlands, and that managers need to consider not only their business assets, but also public safety when making a determination on closures and when they are lifted.

“The situation will be evaluated on an ongoing basis, but we anticipate the closure will last until wetting rains reduce the hazard later in the season,” Stegner said in the statement.

A number of Fish and Game regions have recently announced various levels of fire restrictions on department-owned property, including Wildlife Management Areas. The restrictions commonly reflect those on neighboring public lands managed by other federal and state agencies. Regional Fish and Game staff have and will continue to post updates on fire restrictions for department-owned lands to the agency's Fire Information Page, https://idfg.idaho.gov/fire/home.

Fish and Game staff are compiling the latest fire activity and closures from InciWeb.nwcg.gov and making them available as real-time maps and downloads on its website. As information becomes available, this page will be updated.