Crossing a line: New bill seeks to prohibit Mule Deer doe hunting across much of Idaho

On Friday, February 7, a new bill was introduced into the Idaho Legislature which would enact a five-year moratorium on the hunting of mule deer does across much of Idaho. Hunting units impacted include 19, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 52A, 53, 54, 55, 56, and 57. 

This legislation crosses a line in our system of wildlife management, setting seasons and overriding the science-based wildlife management system on which our hunting and fishing traditions are based. Season setting is a complicated process that should be managed by Idaho Fish and Game and the Fish and Game Commission - not by elected officials who are subject to political considerations.

The legislation cites reduced populations, low survival rates, and reduced hunter success as the motivation behind the legislation, but provides no detail around these considerations. Biological factors such as these are monitored by biologists and are considered by the Commission, including sportsmen input, during the existing season setting process.

Science-based wildlife management is a central tenant of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. The Idaho Wildlife Federation helped to lead the Citizen’s Initiative of 1938 that created an independent Fish and Game Commission, overwhelmingly supported by Idahoans, in order to ensure that science - rather than politics - would be the guiding light of wildlife management practices. This bill would set us on a slippery slope that would endanger that legacy.

Mule deer doe hunting is already prohibited or largely restricted to youth hunts during general hunting seasons in the impacted units, though more units are open to doe hunting during archery seasons.

IWF is steadfast in our belief that hunting seasons should be set by the Fish and Game Commission rather than through legislation. The Fish and Game Commission process incorporates up to date biological data and robust public input from the hunting community. Setting seasons in statute sets a dangerous precedent that runs counter to our foundation of science-based wildlife management. 

Contact your elected representatives today and ask them to oppose House Bill 196, and let them know that you do not support legislation that sets hunting seasons in statute. 

Cover photo credit: U.S. Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region