The Courier
NEWS
Senators Call Out Biden's Attack on School Hunting & Archery Programs
Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo (both R-Idaho) joined Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) in calling out the Biden administration for its plan to block funding for elementary and secondary schools that have hunting and archery programs. The letter condemns the Biden administration's attempt to use last year's gun control bill to justify defunding schools with hunter and archery education programs. More than 500,000 students participate in and are certified through hunter education courses each year. These important programs help students learn how to handle firearms safely, which decreases firearm-related injuries and accidents. "We write to express our deep concern about the Biden administration's attempt to use the gun control bill passed last year to block funding for elementary and secondary school," wrote the Senators. "While the administration claims to be eliminating dangerous activities, this guidance will, in fact, have the opposite effect. These programs provided thousands of students with the opportunity to learn proper instruction for firearm and archery safety." "We voted against the gun control legislation. It is now clearer than ever that the Biden administration will use the bill to attack the constitutional rights of Americans. Hunting and archery are strongly connected to the traditions and heritage of America. This outrageous overreach is an attack on hunters and outdoor recreation that must be addressed," the lawmakers stated. Sens. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Roger
DEQ Groundwater Monitoring Program in Bliss
The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is reaching out to private well owners in Bliss, Idaho, to participate in a groundwater sampling program. Sampling will take place in September and October of this year and is free for well owners. The study will help DEQ assess groundwater quality in the area and determine the primary sources of nitrate contamination. Private well owners will receive a copy of the results along with information on how to protect the quality of their well water. Groundwater provides over 95% of Idaho’s drinking water and nitrate is the most common and widespread contaminant in groundwater. Long-term exposure to elevated nitrate levels can have adverse health effects, especially in infants younger than six months and individuals with underlying health conditions. DEQ maintains a list of degraded groundwater areas throughout the state, which are referred to as nitrate priority areas. Bliss is considered a moderate priority area with a ranking score of 12. However, DEQ needs additional data in order to help further characterize groundwater quality in the region, identify nitrate trends, and determine if current aquifer degradation is increasing or decreasing. To participate, contact Nicholas Howell (Nicholas.Howell@deq.idaho.gov or (208) 736-3870) by September 15, 2023.
News from the Heart of Idaho Camas • Lincoln • Gooding
August 23, 2023
Vol 47 Num 34
Fish Salvage at Mormon Reservoir
Due to low water levels a fish salvage order has been issued for Mormon Reservoir, effective August 18, 2023. The Magic Valley Regional Office of Fish and Game has been monitoring the water level and temperatures at different locations within the region and have found water conditions in Mormon Reservoir are no longer suitable for fish survival. In response, a fish salvage order is now in place for Mormon Reservoir. The fish in Mormon Reservoir are expected to perish due to extremely warm air and water temperatures and forecasted conditions. The Director of Idaho Fish and Game has ordered that bag and possession limits be removed on Mormon Reservoir effective August 18, 2023. Limited snowpack and delivery of the reservoir’s entire active storage capacity have necessitated this action. While a valid 2023 fishing license is required to salvage fish, fish may be taken by any method, except by firearms, chemicals or electric current. If you have questions, contact the Magic Valley Regional Office at (208) 324-4359. --- --- ---
F&G Seeks Public Comment On White Sturgeon Management Plan Deadline to comment is September 24 at 6 p.m.
Idaho Fish and Game is seeking comments on its Draft Snake River White Sturgeon Management Plan 2023-2032. This revised plan will guide white sturgeon management and conservation priorities throughout the Snake River during the next 10 years. The updated plan includes new information on Snake River White Sturgeon regarding: • Population assessments and abundance objectives • Information on threats to populations • Proposed fishery management and conservation strategies • Conservation aquaculture program and stocking goals People are encouraged to review the draft plan at: idfg.idaho. gov/form/sturgeon-management-plan and submit comments by September 24 at 6 p.m. MDT. Fish and Game will be hosting a virtual open house and Q&A on August 30 at 6 p.m. Online attendees will be able to ask questions regarding the management plan.