EDITORIAL: Be eyes, ears for Fish and Game

Idaho hunters have a reputation for their love of the land. They adhere to the rules. They respect the big game. They value what they have and don't abuse it. They appreciate the opportunities they have in our great outdoors. 

That's why it's disappointing when we hear reports of poaching. It is rare, but it happens. Even here.

Here are a few headlines that have been in The Press this year:

• Coeur d’Alene man convicted of unlawful killing of a trophy bull elk in North Idaho

• Idaho Fish and Game looking for poacher who killed female moose and calf

• Two St. Maries men charged after 'poaching spree'

And most recently, this one

• Three people indicted for illegal killings of mountain lions, bobcats

We wish we did not have to write such stories about people doing foolish, thoughtless, selfish things. But we do. When they happen, when such incidents are being investigated, we will report on them. If we highlight them and name those responsible once found guilty, perhaps it will be a deterrent to others.

That said, with fall hunting here, Idaho Fish and Game can use our help.

It is asking people to call the Citizens Against Poaching hotline at 800-632-5999 if they witness a violation of Fish and Game laws. In doing so, you will make it easier for authorities to prosecute those who would break the law.

Callers to the CAP hotline can report anonymously, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Cash rewards are available to callers who provide information leading to the citation of suspected wildlife law violators. People can also file an anonymous report online. 

Fish and Game said people are encouraged to make as complete a description as possible of people and vehicles involved and report it as quickly as possible. License plate numbers are extremely useful, as well as detailed information including exact location, time and description of suspects. 

“Idaho conservation officers request assistance from the public to apprehend those violating fish and game laws,” said Joey Ishida, Fish and Game interim chief of enforcement. “We can’t be everywhere at once, so we need help protecting Idaho’s fish and wildlife.”

In case you were wondering, CAP has been an important resource to catching poachers. During the past five years, it annually received nearly 1,500 calls from the public, resulting in an average of 100 citations, with over $31,560 being paid in reward to the public.

Don't, however, put yourself in danger.

“We’d like to apprehend those violating Fish and Game laws,” Ishida said. “Only make the call if you feel safe to do so. Be discreet when taking pictures or recording the violation, but do not confront people directly or otherwise endanger yourself.”

As Fish and Game says, the public can be the eyes and ears for protecting Idaho's wildlife. 

Let's do our part.